Rare High Risk Flooding Triggers Evacuations in Southern California After Deadly Northern California Storms

California is bracing for another round of powerful storms as forecasters warn of a rare and dangerous flood threat across much of the state. The latest atmospheric river system follows a deadly storm that caused widespread flooding in Northern California over the weekend, including in Redding, where at least one person died after being pulled from a flooded vehicle.

Shasta County was among the hardest-hit areas, with heavy rain flooding roadways, including parts of Interstate 5. Nearly a month’s worth of rain fell in just two days, prompting numerous water rescues and stranding motorists. Flooding and rescues were also reported in Humboldt County, Placer County, Sonoma County, and other parts of Northern California.

Now, attention is shifting south as an even stronger storm is expected to impact the entire state. The Weather Prediction Center has issued a Level 4 of 4 “high risk” for flooding rain for parts of Southern California, including mountainous areas of Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Santa Barbara counties. High-risk flood events are rare but account for a significant share of flood-related damage and deaths nationwide.

Evacuation orders and warnings have been issued for hundreds of properties in Los Angeles County, particularly in areas affected by recent wildfires. Officials warn that burn scars are especially vulnerable because the soil can no longer absorb water, increasing the risk of fast-moving debris flows and mudslides.

Rainfall totals through the end of the week could reach 4 to 8 inches in coastal and valley areas, with up to 12 inches in foothills and mountains. In some locations, that could equal several months’ worth of rain in just days. Strong winds, power outages, hazardous driving conditions, and additional evacuations remain possible as storms continue through Friday.

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