## Continuous Heavy Rainfall in California Triggers Flood Risks, Evacuation Measures Upgraded to Critical Stage

A massive storm system over the Pacific Ocean—known meteorologically as an "atmospheric river"—is posing ongoing threats to California. These atmospheric rivers carry abundant moisture, often resulting in precipitation levels that exceed historical averages for the same period. This round of rainfall is a rare event of this kind.

The National Weather Service reported that the final wave of rain clouds, which began on Friday morning, has covered the entire state of California, with expected moderate to heavy rainfall. The coastal areas from Oxnard to Malibu face the most severe flood threats, with some regions possibly experiencing strong winds and thunderstorms. As of Friday morning, over 50,000 homes and commercial facilities in California have lost power, mainly concentrated in Northern California.

## Fire Scarred Areas Increase Flood Disaster Risks

Even more concerning is that California experienced a major wildfire about a year ago, and these burned areas are now becoming "trigger points" for current flood disasters. The soil burned by the fire has lost its natural water absorption capacity, and surface vegetation has been completely destroyed. During rainfall, water cannot infiltrate the ground, leading to rapid runoff, which can easily trigger landslides and mudslides.

Meteorologist Scott Kleibold from the National Weather Service explained this phenomenon: "Soil burned by wildfires becomes hydrophobic, so when rain falls on these surfaces, it’s like hitting concrete—it quickly flows downstream." He further pointed out that it takes 4 to 5 years for such fire-affected soils to recover normal permeability. During this recovery period, every heavy rainfall in California increases the risk of flood disasters.

## Evacuation Orders Extended, Public Safety Enters Emergency Mode

In view of the ongoing flood threats, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office has extended the evacuation order until 1 p.m. Friday. This coincides with the peak of Christmas holiday travel, with many roads closed, flight delays, and widespread highway flooding, severely hindering public travel.

This round of heavy rain has already resulted in at least 3 fatalities. Officials issued a stern warning about road safety hazards, urging the public to avoid unnecessary travel. The intense rainfall caused by the atmospheric river once again exposes the severity of compounded natural disasters—ecological scars left by wildfires are being exacerbated by flood hazards.