Hurricane Hilary now a storm, but still poses ‘life-threatening floods’ in California.

Southern California Braces for Hurricane Hilary

Southern California is preparing for the arrival of Hurricane Hilary, which is expected to bring⁣ heavy rainfall and strong winds to San Diego ⁢on ​Sunday. The storm’s projected trajectory has prompted the National Hurricane Center to issue warnings and​ declare a state of emergency ‍in San Diego County.

Downgraded to Category 1

On Saturday evening, the National Hurricane⁣ Center​ downgraded Hilary from its ‍earlier projections, classifying it as a Category 1 storm. Despite the downgrade, the storm is still expected to have a significant impact as it moves towards Mexico’s Baja California peninsula and enters ‍the San Diego‍ area on Sunday.

Catastrophic Flooding and Life-Threatening Conditions

The National Hurricane Center has warned of “catastrophic and⁣ life-threatening ‍flooding” due ⁢to the heavy rainfall ⁤associated ⁢with Hilary. Large swells​ are ‌also expected, creating dangerous surf and rip current conditions. ⁣This has prompted the issuance of the first-ever tropical storm ⁢warning for ‌much of Southern California, with millions of people on high alert.

Preparations and Emergency​ Measures

San Diego County officials have declared a state‍ of emergency and ⁣are preparing for‍ the anticipated powerful winds. As of 8:30 a.m. ET, winds were already strengthening in the region. The city of Los Angeles is‍ also taking precautions, activating its⁢ Emergency Operation Center ‌at Level⁣ 2 ⁢and making⁣ plans‍ to open temporary emergency shelters for those at⁢ risk of flooding.

Intense Rainfall and Potential Flooding

The National Hurricane Center has forecasted rainfall amounts of ⁤3 to 6 inches, with ⁤isolated amounts ⁤of ⁣up ​to 10 inches, across southern California and⁤ southern Nevada.​ The heaviest rainfall ⁤is expected on ​Sunday and into Monday morning, which could lead to flooding of rivers, creeks, and streams, as well as the⁣ potential for debris runoff⁤ in some areas.

Stay safe and stay informed as Hurricane Hilary approaches. Follow local authorities’ instructions and take necessary ​precautions to ​protect⁤ yourself and your property.