
Two atmospheric river storms are moving down through California to bring even more much-needed rain to L.A. County this week. Hopes are high that these two new storm systems will bring a definitive end to the L.A. wildfires.
Two Distinct Storm Systems
Initially it looked to be one atmospheric river storm coming in from the coast, but now the one storm is separating into two distinct storm systems. The first storm is hitting Northern California today, Feb. 3 and then should move down into L.A. County on Tuesday, Feb. 4.
The peak of the first atmospheric river storm is predicted to hit L.A. County between Tuesday night and last through Wednesday midday, and L.A. County is expected to receive 0.25 to 0.75 inches during this time.
A second atmospheric river storm hit L.A. County on Thursday causing flood advisories in L.A. County. The NWS states that “mud flows and shallow debris flows are possible from recent burn scars.”
Additional rain is expected through today, Friday, Feb. 7. The NWS predicts an “additional 0.5 to 1 inches expected for most areas and 1-2 inches for mountains/hills.” Expect “travel delays and minor road flooding.”
What is an atmospheric river?
An atmospheric river is a long, narrow area of precipitation in the sky carrying water vapor usually arriving from the tropics. While the nickname “rivers in the sky” sounds romantic, they can actually do a quite a bit of damage once they reach land because of the immense amount of precipitation they carry with them.
Important Rain Storm Safety Tips
Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind during an atmospheric river storm:
- Stay inside if possible—ideally on the lowest floor and away from windows.
- Avoid driving if possible.
- Avoid moving water. Do not drive or walk through moving water.
- Avoid risky areas. Stay away from streams, rivers, flood control channels, and other areas subject to sudden flooding. Do not go within 35 feet of downed power lines.
- Stay informed. Listen to the radio or watch television for information and instructions from your local officials. And keep electronic devices charged in order to receive updates.
- Obey evacuation instructions. If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately.
Keep your eye on the National Weather Service website here for the latest updated forecasts and advisories. As always, be safe during rainy weather, and try to stay indoors if at all possible.