Deadly storms trigger floods and mudslides in California
Severe rainstorms sweeping across large areas of California have caused flooding and mudslides, leaving at least three people dead as of Christmas night, according to local authorities. The storms, driven by multiple atmospheric rivers, have dumped heavy rainfall across the state and were forecast to continue through Friday. In parts of Los Angeles County, rainfall totals reached up to 11 inches (27 cm), overwhelming drainage systems, triggering evacuations, and forcing the closure of major highways. Emergency services have carried out numerous rescue operations, including saving motorists trapped in vehicles as floodwaters rapidly rose. In response to the deteriorating conditions, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on Wednesday for Los Angeles and several other southern California counties. Power outages were widespread, with around 100,000 residents across the state without electricity as of Thursday evening. The US Weather Prediction […]