Heavy rainfall poured down over California leading to landslides, flash floods, and evacuation alerts on Monday. Major impact occurred during and after the morning commute in areas like San Diego, where intense downpours caused flash flooding.
San Diego metro, spanning from Coronado to the airport, Mission Valley, La Mesa, and El Cajon, experienced 2 to 4 inches of rain within a three-hour period. San Diego International Airport recorded 2.7 inches, marking the wettest January day since records began in 1851.
Roads were submerged, homes flooded, and concerns arose about debris flows in regions previously affected by wildfires in the Los Angeles metro. Evacuation warnings were issued in the Topanga Canyon area of Los Angeles County, emphasizing the potential threat of debris flows in areas scarred by past wildfires.
In Northern California, a section of State Road 70 was closed due to a landslide in Butte and Plumas counties, according to the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).
While the intense rain subsided by Monday evening, runoff continued to pose challenges in various regions. The recent storms are part of a series affecting California this month, contributing much-needed snow to higher elevations. The snowpack is crucial for the state's water supply, with California's snowpack supplying about one-third of the state's water when it melts in spring. The state began the year with the snowpack at only about 30% of the average.
Authorities and residents remain vigilant as they navigate the aftermath of the heavy rainfall, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in the face of unpredictable weather conditions.
