Los Angeles, CA (August 19, 2023) – Hurricane Hilary, a Category 4 storm, is expected to make landfall in Southern California on Sunday night. The National Hurricane Center has issued a tropical storm warning for the entire coast of California, from the Mexico border to Point Mugu.
Hilary is forecast to weaken to a tropical storm before it reaches California, but it is still expected to bring heavy rain and flooding to the region. The storm could dump up to six inches of rain in some areas, with isolated amounts up to 10 inches. This could lead to dangerous and locally catastrophic flooding.
In addition to the rain, Hilary is also expected to bring strong winds, up to 70 mph. These winds could cause power outages and damage to trees and property.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has declared a state of emergency in the city. She urged residents to stay safe and to follow the instructions of local officials.
“This is a potentially unprecedented, extreme weather event for Los Angeles, Southern California and the rest of the West Coast,” Bass said. “The city is prepared. We’re not waiting for the storm to hit. We’ve already begun working 24/7 to be ahead of the curve and to be ready as soon as the storm reaches our shores.”
Residents are advised to:
- Stay informed about the latest weather conditions and warnings.
- Have a plan in place in case of power outages or other emergencies.
- Secure loose objects that could be blown around by the wind.
- Bring pets indoors.
- Drive carefully, especially if there is flooding.
Hurricane Hilary is a rare event for California, but it is important to be prepared. By following these safety tips, you can help to protect yourself and your family from the storm.
