California floods: Southern region ravaged by storm — videos show widespread damage

After soggy Christmas celebrations due to a winter storm in California, the southern region is now witnessing a powerful storm this week. The extreme weather has unleashed heavy rain, strong winds and snowfall.
Multiple videos making rounds on social media show flooded roads, mudslides and debris-choked towns. While the storm was expected to ease by Friday, authorities warn of ongoing risks including flash floods, high surf and avalanches.



Among the worst hit regions was Wrightwood, a mountain town located about 128kms northeast of Los Angeles. Evacuation warnings were on place as residents were asked to prepare for necessary precautions to tackle the mudslide that swept through the area, turning roads into rivers of mud and rocks and knocking out power.

"It’s really a crazy Christmas," said Jill Jenkins, who was spending the holidays there with her 13-year-old grandson Hunter Lopiccolo.


Despite near-evacuation conditions, some residents decided to stay put. Lopiccolo shares how his family initially began preparations for the evacuations but later chose to stay back, as he said, "We just played card games all night with candles and flashlights."

The storm, however, has prompted the residents to get involved in unprompted rescue operations as the uncertain weather takes over the area. Davey Schneider shares that he hiked about 1.6kms through rain and floodwaters to rescue cats from his grandfather's house. "I wanted to help them out because I wasn’t confident that they were going to live," says Schneider, "Fortunately, they all lived. They’re all okay — just a little bit scared."

Officials said the storm, fueled by atmospheric rivers, brought the wettest Christmas season to downtown Los Angeles in more than five decades. At least two deaths earlier this week were linked to severe weather, including falling trees and crashes.

Governor Gavin Newsom declared emergencies in six counties as firefighters, first responders and the National Guard were placed on standby.

"It could be a whole lot worse," said Wrightwood resident Arlene Corte. "We’re here talking."


Emergency officials said crews remain deployed as more rain and snow are forecast in parts of the state