Southern California Braces for Pineapple Express Storm: State of Emergency Declared

California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency for Los Angeles and surrounding counties. A powerful, historic storm is lashing the region. The system threatens multiple months of rain in just days.

The storm has already caused fatalities and widespread disruption. Officials warn of extreme flooding and dangerous mudslides, especially in recent wildfire burn areas. This situation is evolving rapidly.

Storm Paralyzes Region with Flooding and Mudslide Threats

The intense rainfall began impacting Southern California on Wednesday. It is expected to continue through Saturday. A third storm-related death was confirmed by the Los Angeles Times.

Major highways have closed due to hazardous conditions. Flooded freeways and flight delays are disrupting holiday travel. Power outages have affected thousands of customers.

The risk is highest in communities below recent wildfire scars. Burned vegetation makes soil unable to absorb water. This creates a perfect setup for destructive debris flows.

What is the Pineapple Express Fueling the Crisis?

This event is a classic “Pineapple Express” atmospheric river. Meteorologists describe it as a one-in-five-to-ten-year event. The system draws a direct firehose of tropical moisture from near Hawaii.

The wet air is slamming into coastal mountains at a perfect angle. This forces the air upward, wringing out immense rainfall. According to Reuters, such storms can overwhelm infrastructure quickly.

The impacts extend far beyond immediate flooding. Burn scars can remain vulnerable for years. Recovery efforts from previous fires may be set back by new damage.

The ongoing Pineapple Express storm presents a severe and continuing threat to Southern California. Residents in vulnerable areas must heed all evacuation orders. This dangerous weather event underscores the growing volatility of regional climate patterns.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: How long will this storm last in Southern California?

The heavy rainfall is expected to continue through Saturday. The peak intensity is occurring from Thursday into Friday. Conditions should gradually improve by the weekend.

Q2: Why are burn scars from wildfires so dangerous during rain?

Burned soil becomes hydrophobic, meaning it repels water. Rain runs off the hardened ground like concrete. This dramatically increases the speed and volume of floodwaters and mudslides.

Q3: How is holiday travel being affected?

Major road closures and flooded highways are causing significant delays. Flight cancellations and delays are also being reported at regional airports. Travelers are urged to check conditions before leaving.

Q4: What areas have been ordered to evacuate?

Mandatory evacuations have been issued for canyon communities in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. These areas are at high risk for debris flows. Residents should follow instructions from local sheriff’s departments.

Q5: What is an atmospheric river?

It is a long, narrow region in the atmosphere that transports vast amounts of water vapor. When it makes landfall and rises over mountains, it releases this moisture as heavy precipitation. The “Pineapple Express” is a well-known type that originates near Hawaii.

Trusted Sources: Bloomberg, Los Angeles Times, US Weather Prediction Center, National Weather Service, Reuters

Disclaimer: This article is based on information from official government statements and reputable news agencies. The situation is dynamic, and readers should follow local emergency services for the latest directives.