Rare tornado warning Southern California: issued parts

Southern California hit by historic storm, over 300 mudslides in LA, rare tornado warning in San Diego, no fatalities. Evacuations continue.

The recent storm in Southern California was one of the wettest in the region's history, causing over 300 mudslides in the Los Angeles area. The storm dumped more than half of the city's seasonal rainfall in just two days, posing new hazards and prompting officials to issue a rare tornado warning for parts of San Diego County. The storm, which came ashore over the weekend, brought strong winds and intense rainfall, resulting in three deaths in Northern California.

Despite the storm's size and intensity, Los Angeles has not experienced any major catastrophes or fatalities. Mayor Karen Bass expressed relief and thanked residents for heeding calls to stay off the city's roads. The storm, which is expected to continue through the end of Tuesday, could still produce fierce downpours and pose a risk of landslides due to the saturated soil.

The storm has already caused 307 mudslides, resulting in damage to several buildings and prompting evacuations. The slow-moving nature of the storm has raised concerns about flooding in the region, with most of Southern California remaining under flood watches. The National Weather Service has warned residents to stay on high alert, as swollen creeks and rivers increase the risk of drowning and the need for swift-water rescues.

The storm has been described as historic, with Los Angeles recording its third-wettest two-day stretch since record-keeping began in the 1870s. Between six and 12 inches of rain has fallen over the city, saturating the ground and increasing the risk of landslides. Raw sewage spills and beach closures have also been reported in the Los Angeles area.

Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for most of coastal Southern California, and President Joe Biden has promised federal help. Evacuation orders remain in place for some residents in Los Angeles canyon areas that are at increased risk of landslides. Shelters have added beds for the city's homeless population, many of whom have been affected by the storm.

As the storm continues to impact the region, residents are urged to remain vigilant and take precautions to ensure their safety. The full extent of the damage caused by the storm is still being assessed, and emergency services are working to provide assistance to those affected.

The storm serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and community resilience in the face of extreme weather events. It also highlights the need for ongoing support for vulnerable populations, including the homeless, who are particularly at risk during such emergencies. As the region continues to recover from the storm, efforts to mitigate the impacts of future events will be crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.