Heavy Rainfall Alert: What's Coming for California?

California is bracing for a significant weather event. A powerful atmospheric river is heading towards the state, starting in the north on November 12 and moving south the following day. This weather pattern could bring heavy rain, thunderstorms, and potential flooding to coastal areas. The recent King Tides have already caused flooding issues along the central and northern coasts. With roads already struggling to stay clear, the upcoming storms could make things worse. Additionally, the risk of debris flows in mountain areas remains high, especially since it's been nearly a year since the devastating Mountain Fire in Ventura County and the Palisades and Eaton Fires in Los Angeles County. In Northern California and the Bay Area, the rain is expected to start on November 12, with a slight chance of thunderstorms. The storm will continue into November 14, bringing light rain showers. Residents should also be prepared for strong winds, which can blow debris and make driving hazardous. Southern California and the Central Coast will see rain starting late on November 12. The peak of the storm is expected early on November 13 in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, and later in the morning in Ventura and Los Angeles counties. The storm is expected to persist into November 14, with the mountains and hills receiving between 2 and 4 inches of rain, and the lowlands getting between 1 and 2 inches. To stay safe, residents should be cautious when driving in flooded areas. Saltwater can damage vehicles, and driving around barriers can be dangerous due to unseen hazards. Even a few inches of swiftly moving water can carry a vehicle away, and speeding through flooded areas can cause wakes that damage property. It's important to allow extra time for travel due to potential road closures and increased traffic congestion. Homeowners in areas prone to flooding should look for sandbag stations to protect their properties. Staying informed about up-to-date road conditions and closures is crucial for safe travel during this weather event.