The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning Wednesday for six cities in the San Gabriel Valley, as a major winter storm drenches Southern California.
The tornado warning was in effect from 10:20 until 10:45 a.m. for Alhambra, Pasadena, Monterey Park, San Gabriel, El Monte and Temple City.
“Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter,” according to the NWS bulletin. “Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely.”
Citing radar data-indicated rotation, forecasters reported a severe thunderstorm capable of causing a tornado moving northbound over Alhambra at 40 mph.
Prior to lifting the tornado warning, the NWS to advised people in the area to “TAKE COVER NOW! Move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest
floor of a sturdy building. Avoid windows. If you are outdoors, in a
mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter
and protect yourself from flying debris.”
The initial onslaught of a “very dangerous” atmospheric river drenched Southern California beginning in the early hours of Wednesday. The storm’s first wave flooded roads, contributed to auto collisions, triggered rockslides in mountain areas and has raised concerns of mudslides and debris flows in recent wildfire zones, where residents were under evacuation warnings or orders.
Public safety agencies were closely monitoring the Palisades and Eaton fire zones, in addition to other burn areas in the region, as the rain intensified overnight and began saturating the ground.
“Widespread and significant urban flooding will be likely along with rock/mudslides and debris flows (with the threat not just confined to burn areas),” according to the NWS. “Streams, rivers, and creeks will also see rapid flows, thereby increasing the threat of swift water rescues and there is a possibility of some localized river flooding. “
Forecasters warned travelers on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to be very cautious when driving.
