California Braces for Severe Storms and Flooding Threat

Southern California is experiencing a stormy week, which could be a preview of a rain-soaked winter in the region. A climate scientist predicts that the upcoming storm system will bring significant flash-flood events and be "El Niño-flavored." The National Weather Service has issued flood watches for Los Angeles and Orange County. The seasonal outlook suggests wetter-than-average conditions from January to March. The storm systems are a result of El Niño, which changes weather patterns worldwide and brings warmer and wetter air to the United States during winter. The Los Angeles area could receive 2 to 4 inches of rain, with the potential for thunderstorms and flooding. County officials are coordinating efforts to ensure public safety and capture stormwater for future use.