Southern California Hit by Major Christmas Eve Storm: Flooding, Debris Flow, and Evacuations

Major Storm Impacts Southern California

• 🌧️ A significant storm system is drenching Southern California on Christmas Eve, bringing dangerous conditions and prompting evacuation orders.
• ⚠️ The current storm is described as the biggest Christmas storm in years, with potential to break rainfall records dating back to the 1800s.

Storm Rounds and Rainfall Totals

• 🌊 The region is experiencing three rounds of rain through Friday, with the first round arriving on Christmas Eve being the heaviest.
• 📈 Rainfall totals are expected to range from three to several inches across most areas, with mountains potentially receiving over 10 inches.
• 📍 Areas like Sandberg and Azusa have already accumulated nearly two inches of rain in the last six hours, with Azusa's burn scar area being a particular concern for debris flow.

Evacuations and Dangerous Conditions

• 🚨 Evacuation orders and warnings are in effect for areas near recent burn scars, including Altadena and parts of Ventura County, due to the risk of mudslides and debris flows.
• 🚒 In Wrightwood, heavy debris flow has made Highway 2 impassable, leading to evacuations and a request for additional emergency resources.
• ⚠️ Residents are urged to take evacuation orders seriously, as roads can quickly become impassable, and the situation is described as dangerous and life-threatening.

Road Closures and Travel Advisories

• 🚗 The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) at Tanga Canyon is closed through Friday due to potential debris flow, impacting travel along the coast.
• ⚠️ Slick roads, low visibility due to wind and rain, and the threat of debris flow are creating hazardous driving conditions throughout the region.
• 🚦 Drivers are advised to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary, especially during the holiday travel period.

Mayor's and Resident's Advice

• 🗣️ Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass encourages residents to stay safe, be prepared, and stay informed, advising them to stay off the roads if possible.
• 🏠 Free sandbags are available at all Los Angeles fire stations to help residents prepare for the storm.
• 😟 Some residents, particularly those rebuilding after fires, are taking extra precautions, while others are choosing to stay despite evacuation orders, though officials emphasize the importance of leaving when told.