Southern California is bracing for an early winter storm expected into this weekend, prompting evacuation warnings near wildfire burn scars due to flooding and debris-flow risks and extra emergency response crews deployed to the region by the governor.
Small tornadoes and hail could also develop, according to meteorologists.
A flood watch will be in effect from late Friday night to Saturday evening in Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties, the National Weather Service said
Forecasters said excessive runoff could lead to flooding in rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying or flood-prone areas, and warned that debris-flow risks will be elevated in and around fire burn scars. Flooding may also occur in urban areas with poor drainage.
“With this in mind, residents, especially those in vulnerable areas, should start taking precautions immediately to prepare for the storm and protect their interests,” the NWS announced on Thursday. “This scenario would potentially create many significant impacts area-wide, including possible debris flows in the burn areas, significant ponding of roads and highways, mudslides through the canyons, fallen trees, etc.”
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