The tropical storm formerly known as Hurricane Rosa will give Southern California a good spritzing. But this powerful weather system is also bringing dangerous, high surf to some beaches and could lead to flash floods in some areas primed by recent wildfires.
Tropical Storm Rosa is expected to create waves from six and up to 12 feet in some areas, according to senior meteorologist Todd Hall with the National Weather Service.
"The highest surf will be on south-facing beaches such as Cabrillo near San Pedro (and) Zuma near Malibu," Hall said, adding there will also be an increased threat of "sneaker waves," which appear without warning and surge further ashore than expected.
That didn't stop surfers from taking advantage of bountiful waves in Malibu Monday morning, as evident from this live feed.
South swell is slowly building into the Coastal Waters. High surf is expected late tonight -Monday. Use caution at the beach! Strong #RipCurrents & powerful surf will be hazardous. #CAwx #SoCal pic.twitter.com/OuCniVHtYj
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) September 30, 2018
Moisture from the storm, combined with another weather system, is expected to bring up to a quarter-inch of rain to L.A. and Orange counties. Light showers are on tap Monday evening, with more rain expected Tuesday and Wednesday.
Hall also warned that parts of the Inland Empire should prepare for more significant rain and possible flash flooding.
"This is a desert and they're going to see anywhere from two to four inches of rainfall over the next several days and much of that may come just in a short time period," Hall said. "So we're talking about within an hour or two so there is a potential for flash flooding over the desert."
Residents near the Cranston and Holy fire burn scars were advised to prepare for possible evacuation, as the rain could lead to mud and debris flows.
#HolyFloodWatch #CranstonFloodWatch Rain is anticipated near Holy/Cranston areas in 72-48 hours. Intense rain may cause deadly, fast-moving debris flows. Get ready for future evacuations! Arrange transport, fuel cars, gather items, make plans for animals. https://t.co/FX8H689WYB pic.twitter.com/dAtEkLoEyu
— RivCoReady (@RivCoReady) September 29, 2018
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