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By Anna Skinner
Associate News Editor
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Heavy rain from an ongoing atmospheric river in California caused a mudslide that trapped several cars on Thursday.
Why It Matters
The atmospheric river arrived on Tuesday. It is bringing up to four feet of snow to high elevation areas, heavy rain to Southern California and strong winds statewide.
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Many of the National Weather Service (NWS) alerts in place warned drivers of dangerous road conditions as the storm rages on.
What to Know
Atmospheric rivers are "long, narrow region in the atmosphere—like rivers in the sky—that transport most of the water vapor outside of the tropics," according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The storms brought by atmospheric rivers are known for their heavy snow, heavy rain and strong winds.
On Thursday, AccuWeather shared a video on X of several cars trapped by a mudslide that had flowed over a California roadway.
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"Motorists trapped by 'multiple' mudslides in California! Firefighters responded to vehicles stuck in mudflows in San Jacinto, rescuing six people," the post said.
In the video, a car was seen with its hazard lights flashing. The mud was so deep it nearly reached the car's taillights.
Some areas in Southern California were at risk of rainfall rates of 1 inch per hour, which can cause flash flooding.
NWS meteorologist Adam Roser told Newsweek that the heaviest rains have moved out of the Southern California area, although the San Diego region is still expecting some more scattered showers and thunderstorms on Thursday night and Friday.
What People Are Saying
NWS office in Los Angeles flood watch: "Flash flooding and debris flows caused by excessive rainfall are possible. Potential for heavy rain over the burn scars may trigger hazardous and damaging flooding and debris flows. Flooding may also occur in poor drainage and urban areas."
CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department in a post on X: "Firefighters are on the scene of multiple mudslides across the roadway. Several vehicles were trapped with occupants inside. Swift Water Rescue Team was able to walk out six patients who were all evaluated by paramedics on scene and released. Soboba Rd. will be closed between Chabela Dr. and State/Gilman Springs Rd. while road crews work to clear the mudflow and vehicles from the roadway."
What Happens Next
The atmospheric river is expected to move out of the region by Thursday. Lighter rains could persist through Friday. Wind-related weather alerts have already been issued across the Intermountain West as the storm progresses eastward.
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