Tropical Storm Hilary Causes Flash Flood Warnings in California and Mexico

Rare Tropical Storm Hits Southern California After Landfall in Baja

In an unusual turn of events, Tropical Storm Hilary has made landfall along Mexico’s Baja coast, triggering flash flood warnings in both Mexico and Southern California. The storm struck a sparsely populated area approximately 250 kilometers south of Ensenada. Deadly floodwaters have inundated streets across arid Baja California, and experts are concerned about potential flash floods reaching as far north as Idaho, an area unaccustomed to heavy rain.

Tropical Storm Hilary marks the first instance of a tropical storm hitting Southern California in over 80 years, with predictions of flash floods, mudslides, isolated tornadoes, high winds, and power outages. The storm's initial landfall occurred in a less populated region along the Mexican coast, posing a threat to Tijuana, known for its susceptibility to mudslides, and improvised hillside homes near the U.S. border.

Flash-flood warnings have affected around 9 million people in Southern California, particularly impacting desert areas and hillsides with previous wildfire damage. The storm has caused mud to spill onto highways, overwhelmed drainage systems, and downed tree branches from San Diego to Los Angeles. The possibility of tornadoes was also highlighted for eastern San Diego County.

Adding to the unexpected weather events, Southern California experienced a magnitude 5.1 earthquake near Ojai, causing widespread tremors and aftershocks, though no significant damage or injuries were immediately reported.

Meteorologists predict that Hilary could bring once-in-a-century rains to Western states such as Nevada, Oregon, and Idaho. The storm's trajectory is expected to impact central Nevada before dissipating. By the time of reporting, Hilary was situated about 115 miles south-southeast of San Diego, with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph and moving northwest at nearly 25 mph.

Authorities have emphasized that the major concern is the potential for extensive rainfall, as it poses the highest risk. The National Hurricane Center Director, Michael Brennan, warned against driving through flooded roads and urged people to take precautions against rainfall flooding.

Tropical Storm Hilary adds to the growing list of major climate-related disasters affecting North America. The U.S., Canada, and Mexico have already experienced devastating wildfires and flooding, with Hawaii's Maui island recently facing a historic wildfire, and Canada dealing with an unprecedented fire season.

To combat the storm's effects, Mexican cities like Ensenada and Tijuana closed beaches and established shelters for affected individuals. Rescue and emergency personnel worked to clear blocked roads and restore power lines in the aftermath of the storm.

California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided assistance in the form of officials and resources. Coastal areas in San Diego postponed the start of school, and evacuation warnings were issued for several regions at risk of flash floods.

With the storm's unpredictable trajectory, President Joe Biden called on everyone in its path to follow state and local guidance and take necessary precautions. As Hilary moves across the region, its impact continues to unfold, highlighting the increasing challenges posed by extreme weather events.