Historic Southern California Storm Brings Massive Mudslides and Flooding
One of the wettest storms in Southern California history has caused widespread mudslides and flooding in the Los Angeles area, with officials warning that the threat is not over yet.
Storm Causes Hundreds of Mudslides
The recent storm in Southern California has resulted in at least 475 mudslides in the Los Angeles area. In just two days, the storm dumped over half of the rainfall that the city typically receives in a season. Officials have emphasized that the saturated hillsides make the area vulnerable to additional mudslides, even with lighter rains.
Mayor Karen Bass expressed concern during a news conference, stating that "even when the rain stops, the ground may continue to shift." The storm, fueled by an atmospheric river, has caused numerous trees to topple and has left seven deaths reported in other parts of California.
While there has already been significant damage caused, city officials have extended the flood watch, as forecasters predict another heavy burst of rain before the region begins to dry out.
Recovery Efforts Begin
Despite the magnitude of the storm and the extensive damage it has caused, officials are relieved that there have been no major catastrophes or deaths in Los Angeles. However, several buildings have been deemed uninhabitable, and residents of another 10 buildings have been displaced due to the damage.
Mayor Bass stated that the city will be seeking federal aid, including emergency vouchers for homeless individuals in shelters. They will also explore the possibility of qualifying for FEMA assistance to help homeowners whose properties were damaged. The full extent of the damage is yet to be determined, but officials are hopeful that no further homes will be affected.
Currently, seven buildings have been assessed as uninhabitable, and an additional 10 have been yellow-tagged, allowing residents to retrieve their belongings but not stay due to structural damage.
Record-Breaking Storm and Unexpected Benefits
The recent storm in Southern California has broken numerous rainfall and wind records across the state. Downtown Los Angeles experienced its third-wettest two-day period since recordkeeping began in the 1870s. Between 6 and 12 inches of rain fell in the Los Angeles area, leading to significant flooding and mudslides.
Despite the destruction caused by the storm, there is a silver lining. The heavy rainfall has helped replenish water supplies, which were previously strained due to a devastating drought. Over 1 billion gallons of rainwater have been captured for groundwater and local supplies, providing some relief to the region's water resources.
However, the threat of more storms remains, as the weather phenomenon known as El Nino is expected to bring additional storms to California this year. Officials are urging residents to stay prepared and vigilant for potential future emergencies.
