After Wildfire, Southland of California experiences heavy rainfall of 4-6 inches in the foothills and 2-4 inches in coastal areas
Weather forecasters have confirmed that there would be heavy rains in southern California for as long as three days. It is expected that there would be a strong atmospheric plume of moisture which would result in one of the wettest storm systems the Southland has experienced in any of the rainy seasons till date.
This can result in mudslides and debris flow. It is expected that by Today morning, subtropical moisture will reach the region.
A meteorologist from National Weather Survey (NSW), Rich Thompson said, " This unexpected change in climate will be like a Pineapple Express- A strong and persistent flow of atmospheric moisture and heavy precipitation from the waters along the Pacific coast of North America."
He also added that 36 hours would have rainfall of approximately 4-6 inches in the foothills and 2-4 inches for coastal areas.
NWS in a statement said that it would wait till for more computer models before issuing flash-flood warnings.
even though it's already clear that "periods of moderate to heavy rain are possible Wednesday through Thursday night. Rainfall rates during this time will likely exceed U.S. Geological Survey thresholds for debris flows near recent burn areas. Rainfall totals could bring local flooding to small streams and urban low-lying areas."
The Geological Survey expect thresholds for debris flows from Thomas fire burnt 282,000 acres areas.
Also Read: 13 dead in southern California
First published: 20 March 2018, 12:26 IST