A powerful and dangerous winter storm is battering California on Christmas Day, unleashing torrential rain, severe flooding, and threatening landslides across the state. The extreme weather, described as the strongest atmospheric river to hit Southern California in two years, is causing major travel disruption and has prompted Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency.
Meteorological Mayhem: A 'Pineapple Express' Deluge
The storm is being driven by a weather phenomenon known as a 'Pineapple Express,' a potent jet of warm, moist air originating from near Hawaii. Senior AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham warned that Los Angeles could receive a staggering 8 inches of rain this week, compared to a December average of just 2.48 inches. Some southern areas may see two to three times their typical rainfall.
AccuWeather has also warned of damaging winds, with speeds potentially reaching 80mph in central California and 130mph in the mountains. The National Weather Service has indicated that communities previously scarred by January's wildfires are at particular risk, as denuded slopes are more vulnerable to destructive debris flows.
State of Emergency as Chaos Unfolds
In response to the looming crisis, Governor Newsom activated emergency authorities for six counties, pre-positioning resources for first responders. "California is acting early and decisively to do all we can to get ahead of dangerous winter storms," Newsom stated. The practical impact has been severe, with major roads in the Inland Empire forced to close due to flooding, causing lengthy delays as crews work to clear mud and debris.
Residents in vulnerable areas have been urgently advised to stay at home. Missy Chapman from Sierra Madre told the Los Angeles Times her husband spent 23 December preparing their property. "We're always a little worried, but what are you gonna do?" she said. The concern is widespread; Trini Johnson from Torrance recounted a terrifying experience driving in a previous storm, where water completely obscured her windshield on the freeway. "It scared the hell out of me," she admitted.
Heightened Threats and Unsettled Forecast
The situation remains volatile. Weather models analysed by the San Francisco Chronicle suggest the storm system could organise into a supercell pattern, increasing the risk of tornadoes. A brief tornado warning was issued for Los Angeles on Christmas Eve before being cancelled. Meteorologist Rose Schoenfeld confirmed the exceptional nature of this atmospheric river event.
With the relentless rain transforming small streams into raging rivers, the primary dangers are fast-moving debris flows and widespread flooding. Buckingham emphasised the sudden danger: "The fast-moving runoff can pick up rocks, mud, ash and debris... taking out homes, vehicles and roads along the way." The extreme weather is expected to finally subside towards the end of the week, but the clean-up operation will likely last far longer.
