Southern California Braces for Flash Floods as Powerful Storm System Brings Heavy Rainfall
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A powerful atmospheric river storm system is bringing heavy rainfall to Southern California, prompting flash flood warnings in fire-ravaged areas along the coast. The National Weather Service has reported heavy rainfall rates of up to an inch per hour in coastal areas, which are prone to flash flooding. In the past 24 hours, more than four inches of rain have fallen in coastal Santa Barbara County, while the San Francisco Bay Area received widespread rain on Wednesday. The storm system is expected to continue affecting Southern California on Saturday, with over a foot of snow predicted for parts of the Sierra Nevada. Flood warnings have been issued for areas along the Ventura County coast, including Malibu and the City of Los Angeles. Due to the risk of debris flows, evacuation warnings remain in effect for areas recently affected by wildfires, including the Palisades and Eaton fire burn areas. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has issued evacuation orders for specific high-risk properties in these areas, effective from Friday evening to Sunday morning. Law enforcement personnel will be visiting these properties to encourage residents to leave. The city is urging residents to stay indoors and avoid travel until the storm passes.