Santa Ana Winds Cause Damage in Southern California, Rain Threatens Rose Parade

Damaging Santa Ana Winds

• 🌬️ Santa Ana winds battered Southern California, causing widespread damage and knocking down trees and power lines.
• 🏠 In Sylmar, a large pine tree crashed through a roof and into a child's bedroom, narrowly missing him.
• 🌴 A palm tree snapped and fell onto a Tesla near the 5 Freeway in Anaheim, injuring the car's occupant.
• 🚧 Downed trees and power lines led to road closures, including on the 118 Freeway in Moorpark.

Impending Winter Storm and Flood Risks

• 🌧️ Another powerful storm is headed towards Southern California, with saturated soil posing a risk of landslides and flooding.
• ⚠️ Landslide repair contractors warn that damage often occurs after repeated rain, not just the first storm.
• 🏠 Many homeowners are away for the holidays, potentially leading to unnoticed mudslides and flooding.
• 🚨 Officials urge residents to prepare by collecting free sandbags from fire stations and clearing gutters and drains.

Rose Parade Weather Concerns

• 🌹 For the first time in 20 years, rain is threatening the Rose Parade on New Year's Day.
• ☔ The last time it rained on the parade was in 2006, but it has never been canceled due to weather.
• 🚫 Umbrellas are not allowed along the parade route or at the Rose Bowl Stadium; attendees are advised to dress appropriately with weatherproof gear.
• 🔥 Concerns exist about people creating dangerous fires to stay warm along the parade route, especially for those camping overnight.
• 🚶 The long parade route can take a toll on participants, with risks of blisters, sprained ankles, and hypothermia.