In an unprecedented turn of events, Hurricane Hilary is set to make landfall on the Mexican peninsula Saturday night and is expected to hit Southern California as a tropical storm by Sunday.[0] This marks the first time since 1939 that a tropical storm has made landfall in California. The National Hurricane Center has issued a warning, stating that the storm will bring “catastrophic and life-threatening flooding” to the region.[0]
As Hurricane Hilary continues its path towards Mexico's Baja California, it is expected to bring heavy rain to Southern California. This has raised concerns among many who are aware of the historical significance of this event.[1] If the hurricane does indeed make landfall in California, it will be the first tropical storm to do so in over eight decades.
The anticipation of the storm has prompted the first-ever Tropical Storm Warning for Southern California. This warning covers an extensive area, stretching from Los Angeles to the U.S.-Mexico border and includes the coastal region of San Diego.[1] The threat has also triggered a hurricane watch or warning for a large section of Mexico's Baja California peninsula.[2]
The severity of the situation has led to California's first-ever tropical storm warning, which extends from the state's southern border to just north of Los Angeles. This is a significant development, as the region is not accustomed to dealing with tropical storms or the potential devastation they can bring.
According to the National Hurricane Center, this is the first time they have issued a warning for the region.[1] The agency is closely monitoring the situation and providing updates as the storm progresses. The forecast predicts heavy rainfall, with some areas in Southern California and Nevada expected to receive 3 to 6 inches of rain, and even up to 10 inches in isolated places.
The potential for such significant rainfall has prompted preparations across the affected areas.[1] Sandbags are being made available to residents, and precautions are being taken to minimize the impact of the storm. Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency for much of Southern California to support response and recovery efforts.[3]
As the storm approaches, residents are being urged to take necessary precautions and prepare for the potential dangers associated with the hurricane. Power outages, downed trees, closed roads, flooding, and wind damage are all expected outcomes of the storm. Local authorities are providing sandbags and other resources to assist residents in protecting their properties.[4]
The impact of Hurricane Hilary is not limited to California alone. Parts of Arizona, including Yuma, La Paz, and Pima counties, are also expected to be affected by the storm. The state is making preparations to mitigate the potential risks and ensure the safety of its residents.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for individuals in the affected areas to stay informed and follow the guidance of local authorities. The National Hurricane Center and other relevant agencies will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates on its progress. It is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the importance of being prepared for such events.
0. “DeSantis offers support to California as Hurricane Hilary bears down” POLITICO, 19 Aug. 2023, https://www.politico.com/news/2023/08/19/desantis-offers-support-to-california-as-hurricane-hillary-bears-down-00111959
1. “Hurricane Hilary brings historic warnings to California, flood watches to Oregon” Fox 12 Oregon, 19 Aug. 2023, https://www.kptv.com/2023/08/19/hurricane-hilary-brings-historic-warnings-california-flood-watches-oregon
2. “Hurricane Hilary will bring rainfall and flooding to Southern California” NPR, 19 Aug. 2023, https://www.npr.org/2023/08/19/1194684510/hurricane-hilary-prompts-flood-watch-from-mexico-to-north-of-los-angeles
3. “Governor Newsom Proclaims State of Emergency As Hurricane Hilary Approaches California | California Governor” Office of Governor Gavin Newsom, 20 Aug. 2023, https://www.gov.ca.gov/2023/08/19/governor-newsom-proclaims-state-of-emergency-as-hurricane-hilary-approaches-california
4. “Hurricane Hilary updates: Live coverage as storm hits AZ, CA” The Arizona Republic, 18 Aug. 2023, https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/arizona-weather/2023/08/18/hurricane-hilary-rain-storm-updates-arizona/70623192007/
