After the drought, the rain
Rain continues to pound the California coast. More than 35 million people, or 90% of the population, are affected by flood alerts. In some areas, more than 250 mm of water fell in 24 hours, and more rain is expected over the next few days. In the Santa Barbara area, schools have been closed since Monday. In some cities, it’s hard to tell the difference between a river and a flooded street.
submerged roads
Traffic has become dangerous in places. Roads have collapsed, bridges have been swept away by the strong floods. A woman lost her life this week after her car was washed away. Several people were rescued at the last moment as water poured into their vehicle. A total of 14 people have lost their lives so far due to the floods. This number exceeds the deaths caused by wildfires in the last two years. State Governor Gavin Newsom has urged people to remain vigilant and avoid travel.
It’s even raining in the covered stadium
Last night the rain was so heavy that it poured into SoFi Stadium, where the college football championship game was being held. The stadium is however almost entirely covered by a roof. Most state parks have been closed, primarily due to the risk of landslides. Mountainous regions are most at risk, as the hills create a funnel effect for heavy rains. The state is therefore almost paralyzed, because in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada, to the east, it is snow that is rife. More than 70 cm fell in the Mammoth Lakes region in less than 24 hours.
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