This Christmas week, Southern California took a soaking from a series of powerful winter storms, making it the wettest Christmas season in years. Heavy rains and gusty winds whipped through the region, turning streets into rivers and hillsides into mudslide hotspots. 🌧️🚨
On Thursday night, Los Angeles County firefighters rescued more than 100 people stranded by flash flooding and debris flows. One daring helicopter operation pulled 21 folks from cars stuck in swirling waters and mud.
Although rains eased around Los Angeles on Friday afternoon, the National Weather Service warns that risks aren’t over yet. Flash floods and mudslides can strike without warning, especially near burn scars and steep slopes.
Forecasters also predict dangerous high surf along much of the Southern California coast. Powerful waves and strong rip currents ⚠️ could sweep unwary beachgoers off their feet.
- Avoid driving through flooded roads—just six inches of water can sweep your car away.
- Steer clear of eroded hillsides and recent burn areas—they’re prone to sudden mudslides.
- Stay updated with official alerts from the National Weather Service.
- Respect beach closures and warning flags—big waves aren’t worth the risk.
As clean-up crews work to restore streets and clear debris, residents are urged to stay vigilant and follow safety guidelines. With the storms moving on, let’s keep watch and look out for each other. 🌊
Reference(s):
Rain-soaked California still at risk of floods and high surf
cgtn.com
