Khaberni - The American authorities renewed on Thursday their warning to the residents of Southern California of potential floods and river levels rising, due to heavy rains that have fallen and are not expected to stop during Christmas Day, following the declaration of an emergency in Los Angeles and most southern areas of the state.
The American Meteorological Society explained that a "atmospheric river" laden with water vapor is hitting the state, which may lead to heavy rainfall.
The storm, driven by a weather phenomenon known as the "Pineapple Express," which is a transfer of high moisture from the tropical regions of Hawaii to the west coast, is expected to cause rainfall amounts that could match what is typically received in months.
The authorities also warned of the possibility of "sudden severe flooding that could be deadly" especially in areas previously damaged by wildfires where the soil has become fragile.
The southern part of the state, where rainfall equivalent to several months' worth is expected, is on maximum alert until Thursday morning.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in several counties, including Los Angeles.
In the streets of Los Angeles, shoppers defied the bad weather in the last hours before Christmas.
However, local resident Jim Lewis told Agence France-Presse, "We decided to stay at home. We've received all these warnings, and it doesn't look safe. I don't want to drive,” stating that he will not spend Christmas Eve with his cousins as planned.
Evacuation of Residents
On Wednesday morning, trees fell and streets were closed in Los Angeles, and power was cut off to thousands of residents.
On Tuesday, the city police announced evacuation orders for more than 200 homes, in addition to evacuation warnings for wide neighborhoods.
Officials reported that rescue operations for residents trapped by water in their homes were carried out, especially in San Bernardino County.
The coastal city of Santa Monica and the Los Angeles Basin were classified among the most at-risk areas.
Heavy rain intensified on Wednesday morning, and a tornado warning was issued for three cities in Los Angeles but was later lifted.
Shelter centers for residents affected by the evacuation orders were prepared. The Los Angeles Times reported that some of these centers began receiving the affected people.
The coastal areas in Pacific Palisades and Malibu are on high alert, as they are still recovering from the destructive wildfires that erupted in January. The heavy rains raise concerns about potential landslides in these areas.
There is a risk of waterways overflowing, and authorities advise avoiding driving in areas affected by Los Angeles, the second-largest city in the United States, with a population of 3.9 million people, most of whom rely on cars for their transport.
