California is in the grip of a relentless atmospheric river, bringing torrential rain, hurricane-force winds, and dangerous flooding to cities and towns across the state. Roads have turned into rivers, entire neighborhoods are without power, and in some areas, people are being forced to evacuate as mudslides and flash floods threaten homes.
Officials are calling this one of the most intense storms of the season, and with more rain and snow on the way, the worst may not be over yet.
Southern California: Mudslides and Evacuations Turn Deadly
The situation in Southern California is deteriorating rapidly. Torrential rain has loosened the already fragile hillsides in Malibu and Pacific Palisades, causing massive mudslides that have buried cars, blocked highways, and swallowed homes.
In Sierra Madre, where the ground is already saturated from weeks of rain, emergency responders are going door-to-door, urging residents to evacuate before the hillsides give way. Officials say waiting too long could be a deadly mistake.
“It was terrifying,” said Laura Martinez, a Malibu resident. “We heard this deep rumbling, and suddenly a wave of mud came crashing down our street. Cars were floating, people were screaming—it was like something out of a disaster movie.”
Bay Area: Flash Floods and Widespread Power Outages
Up north, the Bay Area is taking a beating as well. Streets in San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose are completely flooded, stranding vehicles and leaving thousands without power. More than 8,000 homes and businesses are in the dark, and crews are struggling to restore service as strong winds continue knocking down trees and power lines.
Flash flood warnings remain in effect, and authorities are pleading with residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. The National Weather Service has reported that some areas could see over six inches of rain before the storm passes.
Sierra Nevada: A Winter Wonderland Turns Dangerous
For those in the Sierra Nevada, the storm is bringing something different—massive snowfall. Mammoth Mountain and Tahoe ski resorts have already reported over three feet of fresh powder, turning the slopes into a skier’s paradise.
But for travelers, the storm is a nightmare. I-80 through Donner Pass has been shut down, leaving drivers stranded in near-whiteout conditions. Avalanche warnings are in place, and emergency responders are urging people to avoid all unnecessary travel through mountain passes.
How Californians Can Stay Safe
With more rain, flooding, and extreme conditions expected over the next 48 hours, officials are warning everyone in affected areas to take precautions.
- Stay indoors if you don’t need to be outside
- Stock up on supplies in case of power outages
- Avoid driving through flooded streets—even six inches of water can carry a car away
- Listen to emergency alerts and follow evacuation orders immediately
The storm isn’t done yet, and for many Californians, the next 24 hours will be critical. Stay alert, stay safe, and be prepared.