Christmas Storm: SoCal Braces for Floods, Landslides

Southern California is bracing for a significant Christmas storm, with forecasts predicting the wettest holiday in years. Multiple atmospheric rivers are converging, bringing a substantial threat of flash flooding and landslides, particularly in areas recently impacted by wildfires. Evacuation warnings and orders are in place for vulnerable homes, with officials conducting door-to-door outreach.

Coastal regions, including Malibu, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, are under flood warnings. Further north, the Sacramento Valley and San Francisco Bay Area face flood watches and high wind advisories. The Sierra Nevada mountains are expected to experience heavy snow and near white-out conditions, posing considerable travel challenges and avalanche risks.

This storm system arrives during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year, contributing to minor flight delays at major airports. Officials have deployed emergency resources and first responders statewide, with the California National Guard on standby to manage the widespread impacts across the state.