California Warned to Prepare for Additional Rain after Devastating Storms

California is experiencing record-breaking rainfall, causing widespread floods and mudslides. Although the rain is beginning to ease, officials are warning that the threat of mudslides and flooding remains. Over 150,000 people are currently without power, and at least three individuals have been killed as a result of the storm. Eight California counties have declared a state of emergency. The National Weather Service predicts that rain will continue until Tuesday evening, with a possibility of excessive rainfall in certain areas. Southern California, including Los Angeles, is expected to receive showers and thunderstorms on Tuesday. Los Angeles has already seen significant damage from the storm, with over 300 mudslides and numerous structures impacted. The city has deployed additional resources, including search-and-rescue teams and helicopter pilots, to deal with the aftermath. President Joe Biden has offered federal assistance to Los Angeles, and an evacuation order is in effect for several neighborhoods. The storm is attributed to an "atmospheric river" effect, a phenomenon where evaporated water is carried along by the wind, creating long currents resembling rivers in the sky. This is the second atmospheric river to hit California in two weeks. The storm underwent bombogenesis, characterized by a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure, resulting in a "bomb cyclone". Further north, San Francisco County is experiencing coastal flooding and continued flooding in various areas. The city has also been dealing with muddy landslides. The storm caused wind gusts of up to 75mph, leading to power outages affecting over 800,000 homes. The San Diego region is currently under a flood watch as well. Road closures have been implemented due to mudslides and submerged roadways. Despite the rain subsiding in some areas, the National Weather Service advises residents to avoid the beach due to large and unpredictable waves.