SoCal Weather: Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued; Flooding Concerns Trigger Evacuation Orders

"A rare and powerful storm system racing into the West Coast has brought a rare threat of tornadoes to Los Angeles, with widespread flash flooding and severe thunderstorms causing chaos across the region. The storm, which has dumped over an inch of rain in some areas, has triggered a severe thunderstorm watch and flash flood warnings for parts of Los Angeles County, including the burn scar areas of the January wildfires.
According to the National Weather Service, the storm system is expected to bring several inches of rain by Wednesday morning, with wind gusts in excess of 50 mph and hail possible. 'An isolated tornado and wind-damage threat will be possible Tuesday morning through midday along the coast in southern California,' SPC forecasters wrote in their discussion of the threat.
In Phoenix, a severe storm warning was issued for parts of the city, with heavy rain, gusty winds, and small hail causing power outages and travel disruptions. The Valley remains under threat of flash flooding, with scattered showers and thunderstorms expected to continue throughout the day.
As the storm system moves inland, the Central Coast is bracing for heavy rain and strong winds, with severe thunderstorm warnings issued for parts of the region. 'This is the first time Los Angeles proper has been in a tornado risk zone since February 2023,' said FOX Weather's Adam Klotz. 'While uncommon, tornadoes do happen in the Los Angeles area.'
Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for several areas, including the Palisades Fire burn scar area, as authorities warn of the possibility of mud or debris flows. As the storm continues to unfold, residents are advised to stay informed and follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety.
In the words of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, 'Those who may need more time evacuating should consider leaving now.'"
"tags": ["severe thunderstorm watch", "flash flooding", "tornado threat", "los angeles", "weather", "storm", "california"]
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