As Hurricane Hilary approaches, the anticipation and concern among residents of Southern California and Mexico's Baja California peninsula continue to grow. This powerful storm, which is expected to make landfall on the Mexican peninsula on Saturday night, is set to hit Southern California as a tropical storm by Sunday. The National Hurricane Center has issued warnings of “catastrophic and life-threatening flooding” in the region, making it a cause for great concern.[0]
This impending storm has sparked comparisons to the last tropical storm to hit California, which occurred in 1939. If Hurricane Hilary does indeed make landfall in California, it will be the first tropical storm to do so in over 80 years. The significance of this event cannot be overstated, as it highlights the rarity and severity of the situation at hand.
To prepare for the potential impact of Hurricane Hilary, Southern California is under its first-ever tropical storm warning.[1] This warning extends from the state's southern border to just north of Los Angeles, covering a large area that is susceptible to the storm's effects. Additionally, a large section of Mexico's Baja California peninsula is under a hurricane watch or warning, emphasizing the potential for widespread devastation in the region.[1]
In response to the threat, California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency for much of Southern California.[2] This declaration is meant to support the response and recovery efforts in anticipation of the storm's forecasted impacts.[3] The state is mobilizing and coordinating resources to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.
The National Weather Service has provided specific details about the expected impact of Hurricane Hilary. The storm is predicted to bring heavy rain to Southern California, with some areas potentially experiencing 3 to 6 inches of rainfall and isolated regions seeing up to 10 inches.[4] This amount of rainfall in such a short period of time can lead to flash floods and significant damage to infrastructure.
To help residents prepare for the storm, various measures have been put in place. Sandbags are being made available at fire stations throughout the affected areas, allowing residents to protect their properties. In Pasadena, empty sandbags can be picked up at designated fire stations, with a limit of 10 bags per resident. These precautions are essential in mitigating the potential damage caused by the storm.[5]
As the storm approaches, it is crucial for residents to stay informed and follow the instructions and guidelines provided by local authorities. The impact of Hurricane Hilary has the potential to be severe and life-threatening, making it imperative for individuals to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
In conclusion, the arrival of Hurricane Hilary in Southern California and Mexico's Baja California peninsula is a cause for great concern. The storm is expected to bring heavy rain and “catastrophic and life-threatening flooding” to the region, with the potential for significant damage and disruption.[0] Residents are urged to stay informed, follow the guidance of local authorities, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their properties. The rarity and severity of this event emphasize the need for preparedness and vigilance in the face of natural disasters.
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 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
2. “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
3. “Disneyland Announces Early Closure Ahead of Hurricane Hilary” The DIS, 20 Aug. 2023, https://www.wdwinfo.com/news-stories/disneyland-announces-early-closure-ahead-of-hurricane-hilary/
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/
5. “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
