Powerful rainstorm hits Southern California prompting evacuation warnings. Here's what to know.
A large and powerful storm has made its way to Southern California on Monday morning and is expected to bring several inches of rain with the potential for flash flooding.
The National Weather Service says the low-pressure system will linger over the region until Thursday and will consist of a series of storms. The system has already caused widespread rain over much of Southern California, with the heaviest rainfall lasting until about 4 p.m., forecasters say.
Weather officials are warning residents in burn scar areas and other vulnerable communities to take precautions ahead of time and to be prepared if conditions become dangerous. The NWS says there is a 20% chance of damaging debris flows.
The Federal Aviation Administration had previously issued a temporary ground stop for all departing flights at LAX Airport until noon due to the weather conditions. It is unknown how many flights were affected.
A CBS LA Next Weather Alert will be in effect in Southern California until Wednesday to warn residents about the storm impacts.
Rainfall totals through Monday evening are expected to range between an inch and 2.50 inches along the coast and valleys and 2.50 and 5 inches in the foothills and mountains.
CBS LA meteorologist Alex Biston says the main concern for Monday is the potential for flash flooding. A flood watch will be in effect until 9 p.m. across all of LA and Ventura counties, except for the Antelope Valley and surrounding foothills.
Temperatures across the LA and Orange County metro areas, as well as the valleys, should be in the high 50s to low 60s throughout the rest of the week. The low-pressure system will also bring strong wind gusts. The NWS says winds could reach up to 60 mph in some areas.
A wind advisory will be in effect until 6 p.m. on Monday for the valleys and coasts. The NWS is urging residents to secure objects in their yards and to be aware of downed powerlines.
Tuesday will be mostly dry with some isolated showers at times. The next set of rain will fall overnight, with the heaviest period around midnight.
Evacuation warnings
Evacuation warnings have been issued for the Palisades, Eaton, Franklin, Kenneth, Sunset, Lidia, Hurst, Bridge, Canyon and Bethany burn scar areas. The warnings will be in effect until 9 a.m. on Tuesday.
On Sunday morning, LA Mayor Karen Bass said first responders and crews from Public Works were preparing for the upcoming rainstorm and would be ready to respond to any potential impacts.
"All Angelenos – especially those in burn scar areas – are encouraged to follow official guidance, use caution on the roads, plan ahead, and stay informed," Bass said.
Road closures
Caltrans issued a road closure for Topanga Canyon Boulevard from Pacific Coast Highway to Grand View Drive. It is unknown when the road will reopen.
Citizen video from across Southern California shows several flooded roads and intersections. Weather officials urge drivers to turn around if they encounter a flooded street and not try to pass through it.

