Summary:
- Hurricane Hilary rapidly intensifies from a tropical storm to a category 4 hurricane, with potential to become a category 5.
- First-ever tropical storm watch issued for Southern California, including San Diego.
- Widespread flash flooding and mudslide concerns across Southern California and parts of Southern Nevada.
- Unusual south-to-north trajectory of the storm increases the threat to areas like Las Vegas and Death Valley.
- Heavy rainfall expected, with some areas potentially receiving historic amounts of rain.
The Pacific coast of California is bracing for the impact of Hurricane Hilary, which has rapidly intensified into a category 4 hurricane and could potentially become a category 5. This marks the first time that a tropical storm watch has been issued for Southern California, including San Diego.
The storm's rapid intensification has meteorologists and experts concerned about the potential for widespread flash flooding, mudslides, and debris flows across Southern California and parts of Southern Nevada. The storm's unusual trajectory, moving south to north, is contributing to these concerns, with the threat extending to areas like Las Vegas and Death Valley. While the wind aspect of the storm is significant, the primary focus is on the heavy rainfall it is expected to bring, with some areas potentially receiving historic amounts of rainfall.
As Hurricane Hilary approaches, communities in its path are preparing for the worst, with warnings in place and emergency measures being taken. Meteorologists and authorities are closely monitoring the storm's progress and providing updates to the public to ensure safety and readiness.