Near-record November rainfall, stranded vehicles, and snow in higher elevations as storm system pushes east
LOS ANGELES — Southern California faced another wave of intense rainfall Friday as the third storm in just over a week swept across the region, causing localized flooding and travel disruptions before shifting east toward the mountains and south toward Baja California.
Meteorologists say the rapid series of storms has placed the region on pace for one of its wettest Novembers ever recorded. Since Nov. 13, downtown Los Angeles has received more than four times its normal monthly rainfall, according to the National Weather Service.
Authorities issued early-morning flash flood warnings for parts of Los Angeles and Orange counties, cautioning residents about rapidly rising water in streets, streams and low-lying areas. Several vehicles became stuck in floodwaters near Culver City, prompting response teams to assist stranded motorists.
In Huntington Beach, rushing runoff turned neighborhood streets into fast-moving channels, while an overflowing pond sent water spilling into surrounding roads and partially submerging parked cars.
By midday, coastal areas saw brief breaks of sunshine, though the storm continued to drop heavy precipitation over the mountains. The ski town of Big Bear recorded around 3 inches (7.6 centimeters) of snow, with forecasters expecting additional accumulation into Saturday, according to Sebastian Westerink of the National Weather Service in San Diego.
Officials warn that saturated ground, more mountain snow, and periodic downpours could still pose risks as the system moves out of the region.
