The storm made landfall on Sunday on the Baja peninsula of Mexico which caused one death and several casualties. The tropical storm then routed its way to Southern California where record breaking rainfall was reported together with its life threatening impacts.
The Southern California governor, Gavin Newsom, declared a state of emergency issuing a warning of flash floods hitting the area. Some public schools as well as community colleges in the districts have been closed as a measure to keep the public safe. In addition, the Department of Public Health has issued a warning concerning an increase in the bacteria levels during and after the rains where beach users are advised to stay away from the waters.
Side Effects
Following the tropical storm, a 5.1 magnitude earthquake occurred on the 21st of August and is currently being monitored but no great damage has been caused thus far. This has quickly been dubbed a ‘hurriquake’ across many social media platforms as people have seen nothing like it.
The East of San Diego and LA which are desert regions will be receiving double their yearly amount in just a single day. More than seven million people are under flash flood warning in the area. Crews have been seen digging through the muddy roads to salvage property and rescue people, ten of which were supposedly trapped and one who was reportedly missing. No deaths have been reported in California.
Because of recent wildfires, the ground will be steep, slick and water that would be normally absorbed will run off extremely quickly. Risks remain especially in the mountainous regions because of the hillsides that could easily cause mudslides. Hilary moved into the neighboring areas of the state of Nevada causing flooding and a power outage.The storm caused many drivers and pedestrians to get stranded and most woke up to the view of fallen tree branches on their cars.
Due to the effects of the storm, a baseball game between the Angels and Reds that was to be held has been postponed until it is safe enough to have people leaving their homes. Parts of the dock in Long Beach have been destroyed showing signs of run off and trash prevalent in the area. The Palm Springs community which has been the most affected in the area by the tropical storm remains without connection to 911 services since it lost its power lines.