California residents are on high alert as the state prepares for a one-two punch of atmospheric river storms, famously known as the “Pineapple Express.”
These weather systems, originating from the tropical Pacific Ocean near Hawaii, are expected to unleash heavy rain, strong winds, and, notably, upper-elevation snow across California over the next week.
Dual Storm Threat
Atmospheric rivers, narrow bands transporting moisture from the tropics to northern latitudes, become Pineapple Express when they focus their energy on the US West Coast, originating in the tropical Pacific near Hawaii.
These weather phenomena are characterized by heavy precipitation and are a critical component of California’s water supply.
Beginning Wednesday and lasting a week, two Pineapple Express storms are set to hit California, affecting major population centers across the state.
The first storm, reaching Northern California on Wednesday, is expected to bring 2 to 4 inches of rain and winds exceeding 30 mph. While not catastrophic, it poses a risk of urban and small stream flooding, particularly in the San Francisco Bay Area.
The second storm, arriving on Sunday, carries additional concerns. Colder air accompanying this system is anticipated to bring substantial snowfall to the Sierra Nevada, with Southern California experiencing heavy rainfall and strong winds, reaching up to 70 mph in the northern regions.
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Risks As Pineapple Express Approach
Both storms pose a flooding risk, with the first storm threatening urban and small stream areas in Northern California.
The intensity of precipitation may lead to rapid accumulation, elevating the flood risk. The second storm, more worrisome for Southern California, is expected to bring very heavy rainfall, especially with the added challenge of a potentially record-breaking low-pressure system intensifying the impacts.
Computer models suggest that the Los Angeles region could witness up to 7 inches of rain, with some northern areas experiencing even higher amounts. The looming threat arises from the already saturated ground due to the first storm, amplifying the risk of flooding and other weather-related issues.
As California prepares for the arrival of these Pineapple Express storms, residents are urged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.
The potential for flooding, strong winds, and significant rainfall underscores the importance of monitoring weather updates and heeding advisories in the coming days.
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