Los Angeles braces for two rainstorms amid debris flow concerns
- After a dry start to winter, beneficial rain is on the way for Southern California.
- The first of two storm systems is expected to bring significant rainfall, particularly impacting burn scar areas.
- Residents and officials are taking necessary precautions to mitigate risks associated with the impending storms.
Southern California is set to experience significant rainfall due to two distinct storm systems following weeks of dry conditions. The National Weather Service has projected light to moderate rain that will begin on Tuesday and last through Wednesday, bringing up to one inch of precipitation to Los Angeles County. The San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura areas are anticipated to receive the majority of the rainfall. The peak of the rain is forecasted for Tuesday night, with flooding and landslide concerns in burn scar areas. After a dry spell, this rainfall is vital for drought conditions exacerbated by a lack of rain and strong winds that led to recent wildfires in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena regions. The second storm is expected to arrive on Thursday evening, thus providing additional rain for the already parched landscape. Weather officials are particularly concerned about burn scar areas in Pacific Palisades and Altadena, where the risk of debris flow remains significant due to the inability of the ground to absorb water efficiently after wildfires. Preparatory measures, such as cleaning drainage facilities and distributing sandbags, have been taken to mitigate flooding and mudslide risks. Officials report that rainfall will drop significantly after the two storm systems pass, with a dry weekend predicted.