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State of Emergency as Atmospheric River Batters Southern California

Officials report flash flooding, ongoing rescues and at least three weather-linked deaths, with heavy rain and mountain snow continuing into Friday.

Overview

  • Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for Los Angeles and several southern counties as torrents of rain, strong winds and mountain snow hit the region.
  • The National Weather Service warned of widespread flash flooding and debris flows, with localized rainfall totals reaching several months’ worth of precipitation and gusts near 90 km/h.
  • Hundreds of households were ordered to evacuate or placed under warnings, shelters opened for displaced residents, and authorities urged people to avoid affected roads.
  • Burn-scarred slopes in Pacific Palisades and Malibu were under heightened vigilance for landslides and mudflows due to saturated soils.
  • At least three storm-related deaths were reported by the Los Angeles Times, and firefighters conducted rescues in mountain communities such as Wrightwood in San Bernardino County.