Tropical Storm Hilary made landfall over the Baja California peninsula on Sunday, bringing heavy rain and causing flash floods. The storm is now heading towards the US Southwest, where it is expected to cause life-threatening and catastrophic flooding.
The storm has already resulted in flight cancellations and disruptions to sporting events in the United States. Officials are urging residents to stay indoors and have emergency supplies readily available.
Despite weakening as it approached land, Hilary is still forecasted to be the wettest storm to hit the US Southwest. Meteorologist Zack Taylor from the National Weather Service (NWS) described the storm as dangerous due to its rain intensity and totals.
Areas that are typically dry, such as Palm Springs, California, and California’s Death Valley, are expected to receive significant rainfall. Palm Springs, which usually receives 4.6 inches of rain per year, could get 6-10 inches from this storm. Similarly, Death Valley, which receives only 2.2 inches of rain per year, could receive three to four inches.
Hilary made landfall over the northern parts of the Baja California peninsula on Sunday morning. It was carrying sustained winds of 60 mph and is expected to move across Southern California later in the day. The storm surges and heavy rain could lead to coastal flooding and catastrophic flooding in some areas, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
In Mexico, nearly 1,900 people have been evacuated to shelters in the Baja California peninsula. Schools and nonessential activities have been canceled, and residents in high-risk zones have been urged to move to temporary shelters.
In the US, precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of residents. Hundreds of flights at the San Diego International Airport have been canceled, and Major League Baseball games in Los Angeles have been rescheduled. Soccer matches have also been postponed due to the threat of heavy rain and flooding.
It has been seven decades since the last tropical storm made landfall in California. The Long Beach tropical storm in September 1939 resulted in the deaths of almost 100 people.
As the effects of Tropical Storm Hilary continue to be felt, it is crucial for residents in the affected areas to follow the instructions of local officials and prioritize their safety. Stay informed through reliable sources and be prepared for potential flooding and related hazards.