Hurricane Hilary Approaches Southern California Bringing Heavy Rainfall and Flood Threat
Southern California is preparing for the arrival of Hurricane Hilary, which is expected to bring significant rainfall and the possibility of extensive flooding. The hurricane, currently categorized as a strong category 4 storm, is projected to weaken into a tropical storm as it reaches the region on Sunday afternoon.
In anticipation of the storm, a tropical storm watch has been issued for parts of Southern California, spanning from the California-Mexico border to the Orange-Los Angeles County line, including Catalina Island. The National Hurricane Center has described Hurricane Hilary as large and powerful, with maximum sustained winds reaching 145 mph.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to secure their valuables and avoid driving on flooded roads, according to the National Weather Service. Although Hilary is expected to weaken, the impacts of the storm could be felt as early as Saturday, with San Diego experiencing rainfall by Saturday evening and Los Angeles expecting rainfall on Sunday afternoon.
AccuWeather meteorologist, Scott Homan, explains that the storm will bring a significant amount of moisture to the region, leading to potential rainfall of around 4 inches in cities like Los Angeles, Anaheim, Santa Barbara, and San Diego. Desert areas, such as Palm Springs and the Sierra Nevadas, may see even higher amounts of rainfall, ranging from 4 to 8 inches.
Aside from heavy rainfall and flooding, California’s national parks are also at risk. Joshua Tree and Death Valley national parks may face flooding, while Zion National Park in Utah is guaranteed to be flooded on both Friday and Saturday. The National Park Service advises visitors to avoid slot canyons in Zion until Saturday morning.
Precautionary measures are being taken across the region in anticipation of the storm. Emergency response workers are distributing sandbags in various areas prone to flooding, and sand berms are being reinforced in low-lying coastal communities, like Huntington Beach, to protect against the winter surf. In Palm Springs, forecasters predict rainfall of approximately 5 inches, exceeding the annual average.
As Hurricane Hilary approaches Southern California, residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. By closely monitoring updates from local authorities and weather agencies, individuals can better prepare for the heavy rainfall and potential flooding that the storm may bring.
