Severe rainfall across Southern California this weekend has caused flooding, mudslides and dangerous travel conditions, with officials confirming at least one fatality linked to the storm. Evacuation warnings and orders in Los Angeles County were lifted Saturday night, though rain continues to affect the region. Authorities said the most intense part of the storm system has already passed, but hazards remain.
An estimated 22 million people were impacted as two waves of heavy rain moved through the state. The first hit early Saturday morning, followed by another round from late morning into the afternoon. Reports of flooding and damage were recorded in multiple areas.
In Sutter County, a 71-year-old man died Friday afternoon when rising water pushed his vehicle off the Pleasant Grove Creek Bridge. The roadway had been covered by two to three feet of fast-moving water following days of rainfall.
Officials remain particularly concerned about burn scar areas, which are highly vulnerable to flash flooding, mudslides and debris flows. However, the threat extends across much of Southern California. Mountain regions in Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles counties may see 4 to 6 inches of rain, far above typical November levels.
While the heaviest rainfall has ended, an unsettled weather pattern is expected to bring more wet conditions into early next week. Saturated soils may continue to trigger flash flooding and landslides in sensitive areas.
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