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Around 24 million people across California are under flood watches as Los Angeles prepares for potentially a month's worth of rain in a single day. The storm system, driven by an atmospheric river, is expected to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible mudslides to Southern California, especially in areas with recent burn scars.
The average rainfall for November is 0.8 inches, but this storm could bring significantly more, with some areas expecting over four inches.
According to the FOX Weather Center, the storm will peak overnight Friday into Saturday (November 15), with parts of the region facing a Level 3 out of 4 flood threat. The National Weather Service has issued evacuation warnings for areas near the Palisades, Franklin, Easton, and Canyon fires, where burn scars make the ground more susceptible to flash flooding and debris flows.
CNN reports that the storm has already caused flooding and a mudslide on portions of Highway 101 in Santa Barbara County. The heaviest rain is expected between Friday night and Saturday, with rainfall rates potentially reaching an inch per hour. The National Weather Service warns that this could lead to life-threatening debris flows and power outages.
Residents are advised to take precautions, especially in vulnerable areas. The storm is expected to continue through the weekend, with lingering showers into Sunday, increasing the risk of further flooding and hazardous road conditions.