Summarize this content to 2000 words in 6 paragraphs Los Angeles and surrounding areas in Southwest California were on alert for floods after meteorologists warned that a storm system could bring heavy rainfall to the area.Why It MattersMeteorologists have said that the situation risks being exacerbated by areas recently destroyed by wildfires, as the wildfire detritus could create debris flows.What To KnowA moderate to strong winter storm is expected to impact Southwest California from Tuesday night through Thursday night, bringing periods of moderate to heavy rain and mountain snow, the National Weather Service said.The storm is expected to peak Thursday morning, the NWS said, adding that travelers could face delays and hazardous conditions due to rain, mountain snow, and gusty winds.
Stock photo: An illuminated freeway sign warns passing motorists of severe weather.
Stock photo: An illuminated freeway sign warns passing motorists of severe weather.
David McNew/Getty Images
Roadway flooding is likely, the NWS said, and there is a risk of mudslides and debris flows near recent burn scars, with the potential for “significant” debris flows.At the time of writing, flood watches were in place for multiple counties across Southwest California including San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, Ventura, and Santa Barbara Counties.The NWS said flooding caused by excessive rainfall would be possible. “Potential for heavy rain over the burn scars may trigger hazardous and damaging flooding and debris flows,” the weather service warned. “Flooding may also occur in poor drainage and urban areas.”The NWS said the incoming atmospheric river would bring moderate to heavy rainfall from Wednesday night through Thursday afternoon.Rainfall rates were expected to range from 0.50 to 0.75 inches per hour, with localized rates reaching up to 1 inch per hour in mountainous areas below the snow level.What People Are SayingNWS Los Angeles said on X, formerly Twitter, Monday: “A closed low brings rain/mtn [mountain] snow tonight, but the system wed-thur looks more significant with moderate/heavy rain & heavy mtn snow, gusty winds & a chc [chance] for tstms [thunderstorms]. A flood watch is out, & a winter storm watch is out for the mtns. Adjust travel plans to avoid delays!”NWS meteorologist Rose Schoenfeld told KTLA: “Hazardous debris flows are possible near burn scars, additionally if a thunderstorm were to set up we could see lightning, small hail, gusty winds and mountain snow.”What Happens NextAt the time of writing, the flood warnings for the area were in effect from Wednesday evening through Thursday afternoon.The NWS advised those in affected areas to monitor later forecasts and stay on alert for any possible flood-related warnings.”Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop,” the service said.
