Los Angeles recorded over four inches of rain in the past 24 hours or so, marking the city’s wettest day since all the way back in December 2004. And as a result, things all over Southern California have been quickly spiraling out of control.
As we learn in this eye-opening video shared by ABC, Los Angeles firefighters recently rescued a man who got caught in a current of wild, raging waters while trying to save his dog. This could’ve been absolutely devastating for a variety of reasons, but you just really have to see the footage yourself:
@abcnewsLos Angeles firefighters rescued a man who got caught in fast-moving water while trying to save his dog on Monday afternoon. By the time first responders arrived, officials say the dog had managed to swim to safety, but the man had to be hoisted out of the water by helicopter. Ten inches of rain fell in some areas of Southern California. Many spots saw more than a month’s worth of rain over the last 24 hours. Los Angeles recorded over 4 inches of rain in 24 hours, marking the city’s wettest day since December 2004. #news #weather #losangeles #atmosphericriver #firefighters #rescue
By the time first responders arrived, officials said the dog had managed to swim to safety, but as we see, the man had to be hoisted out of the water by helicopter. Both the man and dog were taken in for minor injuries, but are otherwise okay. Still, this is something most folks in the area would never expect to see—myself included.
Related: Coast Guard Searching for Dog’s Family After Rescuing Her From Icy Lake Michigan Waters
All the recent rainfall in Southern California has really been devastating. For one, none of use are used to this much rain. So naturally, our cities and neighborhoods weren’t really designed with flooding and excess water in mind. It’s as if it truly has nowhere to go, and when it does, it’s the least convenient sections of town.
Many areas saw more than a month’s worth of rain over the last 24 hours, and that number continues to grow, leaving a terrifying amount of folks (and their fur babies) in a state of fear and worry.
What to know about California storm and flooding
While much of the heaviest rain hit California throughout yesterday (February 5), a storm system will continue to linger, posing a risk of even more flooding for southern parts of the state.
“The San Diego region was under a flood watch through tonight due to excessive rainfall,” the National Weather Service said, “and residents in mountain areas were also warned about rockslides and rocks on the roads.”
Farther north, the weather service issued a flash flood warning for Los Angeles, specifically Beverly Hills and West Hollywood.
As most know, consistent (and at times heavy) rainfall had already caused flooding and dozens of mudslides in the greater L.A. area the day before, and it’s unfortunately not over yet.
It’s also been reported that at least three people have died as a result of falling trees during the storm, with many others being injured and left without transportation and shelter.
Again, it’s just absolutely devastating.
I’m personally seeing a lot of this happen in real time myself, as I’m just north of the major flooding taking place in San Diego. But that’s not to say we aren’t experiencing our fair share here in North County.
From freeway closures to flooded homes and businesses, costly leaks and the feeling of truly being trapped, it’s a harsh reminder that Mother Nature does not play favorites.
It’s estimated that around 29 million people remain under flood alerts from California to Arizona. And even though it appears that the worst of it is over here in Southern California, the amount of rebuilding needed is going to create a long road ahead.
Anyways, I’m thrilled this man was rescued by those heroic firefighters. They certainly have their hands full right now. And of course, I’m extremely relieved to hear the dog was okay. Hey, we all would’ve done the same thing. I admire this man’s bravery. More importantly, I hope everyone stays safe out there! The worst is almost over (I hope).
