Dangerous Storm Pounds Southern California, Triggering Evacuations and Flooding Fears

A powerful storm fueled by a strong atmospheric river is sweeping across California, creating what forecasters are calling a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation, especially in Southern California.

Meteorologists warn that widespread flash flooding and debris flows are expected, particularly in areas near recent wildfire burn scars. Parts of Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, and Orange counties are under evacuation warnings or orders as heavy rain moves through the region.

Some mountain areas in Ventura County have already recorded more than six inches of rain, with rainfall rates exceeding one inch per hour at times. That intensity is enough to trigger flash flooding and fast-moving debris flows, especially on scorched ground that repels water rather than absorbing it.

More than seven million people are under a rare high-risk flooding designation, which forecasters say is issued on fewer than four percent of days each year but is responsible for the majority of flood-related damage and deaths nationwide. Roads and highways have been washed out in parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, with mudslides, rockslides, and flooding reported on major routes including Interstates 5 and 15.

Emergency crews have already carried out rescues. In Los Angeles, firefighters pulled a man from a drainage tunnel along the Los Angeles River during heavy rain, and additional residents were moved out of dangerous areas.

High winds are adding to the threat. Gusts exceeding 90 miles per hour were reported in parts of Southern California, while Northern California saw gusts topping 100 miles per hour. As a result, roughly 140,000 homes and businesses across the state lost power.

Despite evacuation orders, some residents in burn-scar areas have chosen to stay put, prompting renewed pleas from officials urging people to reconsider and prioritize safety.

The danger is expected to continue beyond Christmas Eve. Another atmospheric river storm is forecast to arrive on Christmas Day and persist into Friday, potentially bringing several more inches of rain to already saturated ground. Total rainfall through the end of the week could reach four to seven inches in coastal and valley areas, with foothills and mountains seeing up to 14 inches.

In the Sierra Nevada, feet of snow are expected, making mountain travel difficult or impossible at times. Severe thunderstorms are also possible along the coast, with the risk of damaging winds or even brief tornadoes.

Forecasters say some relief may finally arrive over the weekend, but until then, residents are urged to heed evacuation orders and avoid flooded or debris-covered roadways.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.