Southern California is once again grappling with torrential flooding for the second time in a month, attributed to El Niño-fueled rains. The city of San Diego has been particularly hard hit, suffering one of its wettest days on record.

Experts identify the cause as an atmospheric river, a weather phenomenon that carries a significant amount of moisture. This, combined with unusually warm ocean temperatures, has led to extensive flooding across the region. However, the issues do not stop there. Climate change is also playing a significant role in intensifying these flooding events. A warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture, making storms at least 10% wetter and causing increased rainfall.

This weather system is not only causing havoc in California but has also led to flooding in the South. Similar events were reported in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Vermont in 2023. The unpredictability of the Pacific Coast forecast adds to the concern. There is a possibility of an active Pacific jet stream weather in early February, which might lead to more extreme rainfall events due to rising temperatures.

San Diego has been severely impacted by this heavy rainfall. Flooded roadways, car wrecks, and water rescues have become common, prompting Mayor Todd Gloria to declare a state of emergency. A flash flood warning was issued for parts of North County, including San Diego where the airport received a near-record 2.73 inches of rain.

Despite the challenging conditions, San Diego firefighters and lifeguards have been working tirelessly to conduct hundreds of rescues. According to the San Diego Fire Department, no fatalities have been reported thus far, a testament to the resilience and preparedness of the city’s emergency services. As the region braces for potentially more rainfall, the hope is that the worst is behind them.

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