Debris Flow Threat for Southwest California

news image
Top Stories
18 Mar 2018 7:10 PM
All eyes continue to be on a strong storm system that will be making its way into Southwest California Tuesday through Thursday night. An atmospheric river, or an intense plume of moisture out over the Pacific Ocean, will supply the approaching system with enough water to likely produce some of the highest rainfall totals so far this season for this area. https://twitter.com/twitter/statuses/975545834807808000 The heaviest of the rain is expected to fall between late Tuesday night and early Thursday We could see peak rainfall rates between 0.50-0.75" per hour, which could lead to an increased threat of flash flooding/debris flows in the Thomas, Whittier, Creek, and La Tuna burn scar areas. https://www.facebook.com/WeatherNation/videos/10156232567654874/ Pre-Evacuation advisories are already in effect for some cities in and near these burn scar locations. https://twitter.com/countyofsb/status/975177158653022208 Storm totals are forecast to be between 1-4" for the coasts and valleys and up to 6" possible in the foothills and mountains. In addition to a concern for the recent burn areas, other impacts include widespread flooding across the entire region and rockslides in/near canyons. Check in with your local emergency managers for the latest evacuation notices prior to this storm. For WeatherNation, I'm Meteorologist Meredith Garofalo
All Weather News
More
Extreme Cold to Impact Millions this Weekend

Extreme Cold to Impact Millions this Weekend

A sharp surge of Arctic air has spilled into

8 Feb 2026 3:30 AM
Rain and Snow Return to California on Sunday

Rain and Snow Return to California on Sunday

California has not had significant precipitat

8 Feb 2026 3:20 AM
Big Game Forecast

Big Game Forecast

The championship of the National Football Lea

8 Feb 2026 3:10 AM
Record Heat Moves from West to Midwest

Record Heat Moves from West to Midwest

As troughing sets in across the Pacific, high

8 Feb 2026 3:00 AM
Heavy Snow Lingers in New England Saturday

Heavy Snow Lingers in New England Saturday

Snow blew through much of the Northeastern Un

7 Feb 2026 8:00 PM
California Snow Pack Drops After Dry January

California Snow Pack Drops After Dry January

Following a surge of wet storm systems in Dec

7 Feb 2026 9:55 AM
Another Cold Night for Residents of the Southeast

Another Cold Night for Residents of the Southeast

Following a historic winter storm last weeken

6 Feb 2026 3:15 AM