Flooding Event in Los Angeles Area Forces Road Closures as Storms Rage On

Californians are dealing with the wrath of Mother Nature this week, as heavy snow impacts the higher terrains and flooding rainfall forces the closure of roads in San Diego and Los Angeles. Here is a look at what is unfolding across the Golden State to start the new work week.

Snow and Heavy Rain Disrupt Travel Across California

Heavy snow is snarling travel across the Sierra Nevada, while it is drenching rainfall that is responsible for several road closures in Southern California. The fresh wave of moisture is the result of a potent storm that has been churning up and down much of the West Coast over the last few days.

The first in a trio of storm systems came onto shore in California late in the weekend. This weather maker dropped snowfall measured in feet across a large swath of the Sierra Nevada. However, it has been the heavy rainfall that is causing the issues in coastal regions.

Severe thunderstorms popped up on Monday across the central and southern portions of California. These storms ushered in hail and damaging wind gusts. A large tree was brought down to the ground across Highway 101 south of Fairview Avenue in Santa Barbara County as a result of the winds. The incident forced the closure of the highway, causing large-scale traffic disruptions.

Over in Central California, a tornado ripped off a part of the roof of a Cal Fire station in the community of Tranquility in Fresno County. There were no injuries reported, as all station crew members were out on calls.

As is typical with these heavy rain events in California, the rapid influx of moisture triggered widespread flooding and debris flows. Widespread rainfall accumulations of 1 to 2.5 inches were reported on Monday in the coastal and valley communities. The foothills and surrounding mountains saw rainfall totals of up to 5 inches. Total rainfall accumulations by the end of the week could hit 9 inches in the hardest-hit areas. Rainfall of this magnitude will inevitably raise the risk of flash flooding and mudslides further.