Severe Storms Forecasted to Impact California This Weekend

LOS ANGELES, California — A two-part storm system is expected to bring heavy rain and potential flooding to California later this week and into the weekend. The second wave of this storm could produce rainfall amounts typically seen over several months in Southern California, especially impacting areas like Los Angeles, according to meteorologists.

AccuWeather‘s Chief On-Air Meteorologist Bernie Rayno explained that the system is driven by a combination of complex storm structures, a dip in the jet stream, and abundant Pacific moisture. He stressed that this storm could provide much-needed drought relief but also pose significant risks, including travel disruptions and flash flooding.

“Unlike typical weather patterns that affect Northern California, this system is forecasted to hit the coastal regions of Southern California the hardest,” Rayno said.

In recent decades, scientists have noted a shift in atmospheric rivers, which are essential for transporting moisture. These “rivers in the sky” have moved northward, impacting the usual weather patterns that California relies on for rainfall and water supply. Research indicates that if adaptation measures are not taken, California’s water security and agriculture could be at risk.

Dr. Emily Chen, a climate scientist at UC Davis, emphasized the urgency for California to rethink its infrastructure and drought planning. “Our water systems were designed for a climate that no longer exists,” she stated.

As the state prepares for the incoming storms, residents are advised to take precautions against severe weather, such as ensuring proper drainage and monitoring local advisories.