Key Takeaways
- A major Pineapple Express storm is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds to Southern California, potentially making it one of the stormiest Christmases in recent memory.
- The storm is forecast to deliver 4 to 8 inches of rain across coastal and valley areas, with up to 12 inches of rain possible in the foothills and mountains.
- Almost all of California has been placed under a flood watch, with the risk of flooding and debris flow expected to be a major issue throughout the week.
- The storm is expected to have a significant impact on mountain travel, with heavy snowfall forecast for the Sierra Nevada mountains.
- Residents are advised to take necessary protective actions, as flooding and debris flow are expected to be major concerns.
Introduction to the Storm
A major Pineapple Express storm is expected to deliver one of Southern California’s stormiest Christmases in recent memory. The strong atmospheric river storm is expected to bring "copious amounts of rain across much of the area along with very strong winds at times," according to the National Weather Service’s Oxnard office. The storm is forecast to bring significant rainfall to the region, with concerns about flooding already being raised. The National Weather Service has warned that the storm will bring heavy rain and strong winds, with the possibility of setting several records.
Storm Details and Forecast
The storm is expected to bring 4 to 8 inches of rain between Tuesday and Saturday throughout most of Los Angeles County, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. The high desert could see 2 to 3 inches of rain, while the most precipitation – 6 to 12 inches – is expected to fall over parts of Southern California’s mountain ranges. This could trigger mudslides and debris flows in recent burn scars. The National Weather Service has warned that the storm will bring major impacts to mountain travel, with heavy snowfall forecast for the Sierra Nevada mountains. The storm is expected to have a significant impact on the region, with the possibility of flooding and debris flow being a major concern.
Timing and Rainfall Amounts
The storm is expected to begin on Tuesday, with rain getting worse throughout the day and night. Winds will also pick up throughout the day, hitting speeds between 40 and 60 mph in the L.A. and Ventura County mountains, with 80 mph gusts possible. The heaviest rainfall totals are expected to occur between midnight Tuesday and noon Wednesday, with rates of up to 1 inch per hour possible. The rain is expected to continue on Christmas Day, but with less intensity in the afternoon and evening. Some rain will still be possible on Friday and Saturday, with the storm expected to clear out by the end of the weekend.
Flood Watch and Protective Actions
Almost all of California has been placed under a flood watch, with the risk of flooding and debris flow expected to be a major issue throughout the week. The flood watch will begin for much of Southern California on Tuesday and end Wednesday night, but most of Central and Northern California will remain at risk through Friday. The National Weather Service has warned residents to take necessary protective actions, as flooding and debris flow will be a major concern. Residents are advised to stay informed about the latest weather forecast and warnings, and to take steps to protect themselves and their property from the potential impacts of the storm.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the major Pineapple Express storm expected to hit Southern California this holiday week has the potential to be one of the stormiest Christmases in recent memory. The storm is forecast to bring heavy rain and strong winds, with the possibility of setting several records. Residents are advised to take necessary protective actions, as flooding and debris flow are expected to be major concerns. The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates on the latest forecast and warnings. Residents are advised to stay informed and take steps to protect themselves and their property from the potential impacts of the storm.