Hurricane Hilary Brings Unprecedented Rainfall and Flooding to Coachella Valley
Residents of Coachella Valley are being urged to prepare for the impacts of Hurricane Hilary, which is set to move into the area this weekend after making landfall in Mexico. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings of record-breaking rainfall, which could bring more than a year’s worth of rain in just a few days.
According to NWS San Diego Meteorologist Miguel Miller, the storm’s potential track is becoming clearer, with Palm Springs predicted to receive around five inches of rain. However, other areas are expected to see even higher rainfall totals, with Thermal anticipating six inches and the San Jacinto Mountains bracing for seven to nine inches. Miller added that certain mountain spots may even see greater amounts of rainfall.
To put these predictions into perspective, Palm Springs only received 2.06 inches of rain during the most recent water year. As of now, Palm Springs has received just 3.76 inches in the current water year, meaning it is likely to more than double its previous 10-plus months’ total in a matter of days.
The National Hurricane Center has stated that Hilary is rapidly strengthening and is expected to become a major hurricane. It is projected to approach the Baja California peninsula over the weekend, arriving in the Coachella Valley as a tropical storm.
As the storm approaches, the shower activity is expected to begin on Saturday, intensifying and becoming steadier across the valley by Sunday. The heaviest rainfall is anticipated on Sunday night and Monday morning, later tapering off by Monday night.
Miller forecasts that the storm will bring significant flooding to the desert region, although the extent of the impacts will depend on the rate of the rainfall. Flash flooding is a concern, especially as some rain is expected to fall in thunderstorms, leading to rapid bursts of precipitation. Additionally, the Whitewater River is expected to flood as rainwater flows down from the mountains.
In preparation for the storm, Miller advises residents to clear out drainage areas near their homes, specifically removing any debris in low spots. This will help prevent floodwater from pooling and potentially entering homes. Moreover, he recommends that people stay home on Sunday and Monday to ensure their safety.
Miller highlights that flooding impacts will be less severe if the rain falls evenly over multiple days, but current forecasts suggest that heavy bands and thunderstorms will likely concentrate the rainfall during this event.
The storm is also expected to generate strong winds reaching speeds of 50 to 60 mph.
While hurricanes are rare in the Coachella Valley, they have occurred before. In September 1976, Hurricane Kathleen made landfall in Baja California and subsequently reached the Coachella Valley as a tropical storm. The storm brought 75 mph winds and dumped 18 inches of rain in the area, resulting in extensive damage and destruction.
A more recent example of severe rainfall in Palm Springs took place on Valentine’s Day in 2019. Caused by an atmospheric river, the city experienced 3.69 inches of rain, making it the wettest day in 76 years. This heavy downpour resulted in flooded and damaged roads, as well as the closure of schools.
As Coachella Valley braces for the impacts of Hurricane Hilary, residents are urged to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and prioritize safety during this extreme weather event.
