Hurricane Hilary Live Updates: South California inundated, state of emergency declared

Hurricane Hilary Live Updates: Hurricane Hilary moved closer to the coast of Mexico early Sunday.

Vehicles splash up water during heavy rains from Hurricane Hilary, in south Los Angeles, California, on August 20, 2023. Hurricane Hilary weakened to a tropical storm on August 20, 2023, as it barreled up Mexico's Pacific coast, but was still likely to bring life-threatening flooding to the typically arid southwestern United States, forecasters said. Authorities reported at least one fatality in northwestern Mexico, where Hilary lashed the Baja California Peninsula with heavy rain and strong winds (Photo by Robyn BECK / AFP) (AFP)

Hurricane Hilary Live Updates: Tropical Storm Hilary inundated streets across Mexico’s arid Baja California Peninunsula with deadly floodwaters Sunday before moving over Southern California, where it swamped roads and downed trees, as concerns mounted that flash floods could strike in places as far north as Idaho that rarely get such torrential rain....Read More

Follow all the updates here:

• 21 Aug 2023, 08:52:55 AM IST

  Hillary brings floods to desert areas of South California

• 21 Aug 2023, 08:39:01 AM IST

  Hurricane Hillary wreaks havoc around Coachella Valley in Southern California

• 21 Aug 2023, 07:57:08 AM IST

  Universal Studios in Los Angeles said to be flooded

  Some social media posts have claimed that the Universal Studios in Los Angeles is flooded as rain battered several areas due to Hurricane Hilary.

   

• 21 Aug 2023, 07:20:44 AM IST

  Southern California experiences magnitude 5.1 earthquake

  A magnitude 5.1 earthquake hit Southern California as it braced for Hurricane Hilary. The epicenter was in Ojai, between Santa Barbara and Ventura. The quake occurred along the Sisar fault, according to USGS data. A social media post by Ventura County Sheriff revealed there were no immediate reports of damage. 

• 21 Aug 2023, 06:48:47 AM IST

  Flights at Ontario International Airport suspended

  Southwest Airlines and Frontier Airlines announced that it has suspended flights to and from Ontario International Airport. Southwest Airlines is suspending “all flights from 12pm on Sunday 8/20 through 10:30am on Monday 8/21,” according to a post on X. Further, Frontier Airlines is suspending “all flights on Sunday 8/20 and Monday 8/21”.

   

• 21 Aug 2023, 06:26:18 AM IST

  Southern California receives flash flood warnings

  Flash flood warnings have been issued for over nine million people in downtown Los Angeles and other areas. As Hilary starts moving through Southern California, the rain that has already been falling is expected to get heavier. Even before the hurricane's arrival, the wind increased to 78 mph in the Southern California mountains.

• 20 Aug 2023, 11:28:21 PM IST

  Tropical storm Hilary causes major flight cancellations on West Coast

  Tropical Storm Hilary wreaks havoc on West Coast air travel. According to FlightAware, flight cancellations reach 944, with Southwest Airlines topping the list at 683 cancellations. Over a third of San Diego flights, 40% of Palm Springs departures, and 30% of arrivals were impacted. Los Angeles International experiences fewer disruptions with less than 5% cancellations.

• 20 Aug 2023, 11:15:29 PM IST

  Hurricane Hialary death toll: Atleast one fatality reported in Mexico as tropical storm Hilary hits Baja California

  One fatality has been reported in Mexico as Hilary strikes Baja California. A vehicle was swept away near Santa Rosalía, leading to the tragic loss, as confirmed by Mexican authorities. Hilary, which initially hit Mexico as a hurricane, has now weakened to a tropical storm on its journey toward California.

• 20 Aug 2023, 10:31:13 PM IST

  Hilary tropical storm: Over 5 million in Southern California and Nevada at high flood risk

  The National Weather Service's Weather Prediction Center has issued a "high risk" warning for more than 5 million individuals in Southern California and southwestern Nevada due to excessive rainfall. The warning, which indicates widespread flash floods are anticipated, holds significant gravity, constituting almost 40% of flood-related fatalities and over 80% of flood-related damage, as stated on the center's website.

• 20 Aug 2023, 09:11:03 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary downgraded to tropical storm, set to drench Southern California

  Formerly a hurricane, Hilary now holds tropical storm status with sustained winds of 70 mph. Progressing along Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, the storm is forecasted to deliver substantial rainfall to Southern California from this afternoon through Monday morning, as outlined by the National Weather Service.

• 20 Aug 2023, 08:43:12 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary inflicts 'very severe' damage on Santa Rosalía

  Santa Rosalía, a picturesque town on the Gulf coast of the Baja California peninsula, experienced significant damage from Hurricane Hilary. Mayor Edith Aguilar Villavicencio shared a video while assessing the aftermath, revealing downed utility poles and debris-strewn streets. Flooding was also captured in a previous video she shared. The mayor expressed concern about Natividad Island off the peninsula's west coast, stating that communication lines are down following the hurricane's passage.

• 20 Aug 2023, 08:22:43 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary's impact: Phone and Wi-Fi connections hit in San Quintín, Baja California

  In San Quintín, Baja California, the storm is disrupting phone signal and Wi-Fi connections, hindering road condition monitoring, according to Jorge Alberto López Peralta, president of the municipal council. He reported moderate rains and winds without damage so far. Mexico's recent meteorological update places Hilary about 124 miles south of San Quintín.

• 20 Aug 2023, 08:17:23 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary: FEMA prepares for Hurricane Hilary, addresses funding concerns

  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administrator Deanne Criswell affirmed the close monitoring of Hurricane Hilary's approach towards Southern California. Resources and personnel are being mobilized for assistance. On CNN's State of the Union, Criswell urged residents to heed the storm's seriousness. 

  Addressing concerns about dwindling FEMA funds due to multiple weather-related disasters, Criswell acknowledged potential funding shortages but assured that measures will be taken to ensure adequate funds for immediate responses. Criswell indicated plans to shift recovery projects into the next fiscal year to maintain sufficient resources for immediate life-saving requirements.

• 20 Aug 2023, 08:09:49 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary: Severe weather halts writers and actors' pickets in Los Angeles

  As Hurricane Hilary approaches Southern California, predicted to hit as a tropical storm on Sunday, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) have canceled planned picketing in Los Angeles on Monday. Both unions cited safety concerns due to the anticipated tropical storm, heavy rain, wind, and possible flooding.

• 20 Aug 2023, 07:31:07 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary's impact: 10 things to expect

  The weakening Hurricane Hilary is predicted to strike Southern California and southern Nevada, targeting deserts and mountains with heavy rain and potential flooding.

  Accelerated arrival: Tropical-storm-force winds are anticipated to hit San Diego County earlier than initially projected, around late Sunday afternoon.

  Concern for Sunday afternoon and evening: Officials are particularly worried about impacts on Sunday afternoon and evening across Southern California due to the storm's shifted track.

  Size: Hurricane Hilary covers a vast area, approximately the size of Arizona, heightening the potential for widespread impacts.

  Risk areas: The primary threat is heavy rain and flooding, especially in deserts and mountains. Similar to Baja California, this storm is expected to bring significant impacts to some areas.

  Historic flooding potential: Forecasters are warning of possible historic floods in regions like San Bernardino and Inyo counties, with Death Valley and Morongo Basin at high risk.

  Vulnerable roads: Roads in Death Valley and Highway 62 could face closures, while other areas, like San Gabriel Mountains and Antelope Valley, are at risk of dangerous floods, landslides, and debris flows.

  Torrential rain: Intense rain rates exceeding an inch per hour, or even up to 2 inches per hour, are predicted. Such downpours could lead to catastrophic flooding in various terrains.

  Desert deluge: Certain Southern California desert regions could witness a year's worth of rain within just 24 hours, including Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park.

  Flash flooding on border: Flash flooding is likely along the California-Arizona border, impacting areas like Parker, Blythe, and Yuma.

  Coastal effects: Coastal regions, such as Anaheim, Irvine, San Clemente, and San Diego, could experience up to 2.5 inches of rain, although less severe than inland areas.

• 20 Aug 2023, 07:04:01 PM IST

  DHS designates Hurricane shelters as protected areas for all, regardless of immigration status

  Hurricane relief shelters are considered "protected areas" by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Undocumented residents seeking shelter from Hurricane Hilary won't be targeted by immigration officials. While search and rescue missions may involve immigration and Border Patrol personnel, assistance will be provided irrespective of immigration status. DHS emphasizes its commitment to providing aid, shelter, and assistance to everyone affected by Hurricane Hilary, regardless of their immigration status.

• 20 Aug 2023, 06:59:02 PM IST

  Evacuation orders issued for mountain and foothill communities in east LA

  The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has issued evacuation orders for Oak Glen, Forest Falls, Mountain Home Village, Angelus Oaks, and Northeast Yucaipa due to Hurricane Hilary's imminent heavy rainfall. The Category 1 storm poses risks of dangerous flooding and mudslides. This move is part of California's proactive approach to safeguarding rural communities and wildfire-affected regions susceptible to flooding, mudslides, and debris flows.

• 20 Aug 2023, 06:42:16 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary threatens catastrophic flooding in Southwest US - National Hurricane Center

  Hilary is on the brink of striking the west coast of Baja California, posing catastrophic flood threats to the region and parts of the southwestern U.S. The National Hurricane Center predicts that, while Hilary could weaken to a tropical storm before reaching Southern California, it remains a formidable danger.

  Hurricane and Tropical Storm Warnings and Watches span the Baja California peninsula and areas of Mexico and California, including Los Angeles. As Hilary's impact unfolds, residents are urged to stay vigilant and those across the southwestern U.S. should stay informed about the storm's progress.

• 20 Aug 2023, 06:23:36 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary convergence sparks flash flood concerns in Southern California and Southern Nevada

  The Weather Prediction Center forecasts a high risk of excessive rainfall in Southern California and Southern Nevada due to Hurricane Hilary merging with an upper low. This convergence will accelerate northward across the region, with heavy upslope rains anticipated in the southern Sierra Nevada and Peninsula Ranges of California. 

  Precipitable water values are expected to approach or exceed records, leading to a potential for 3" of rain in an hour. This extreme rainfall could lead to mudslides, landslides, and flash flood emergencies. The combined impact of heavy rainfall and high winds might block roads and cut off towns. The High-Risk designation for these areas remains justified due to the unprecedented nature of this event.

• 20 Aug 2023, 05:43:38 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary weather forecast: Tornado threat looms over California's southwest

  The National Weather Service has indicated the possibility of a few tornadoes in California, including the Mojave Desert and Imperial Valley, on Sunday. While tornadoes are infrequent in the state, it experiences approximately 11 annually. According to forecasts, the highest risk zone for tornadoes is forecasted to be the southwestern Mojave Desert, spanning between San Diego and the Colorado River.

• 20 Aug 2023, 05:31:41 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary set to strike Tijuana; Guard escorts initiated

  Around 5 p.m. local time, Hurricane Hilary is forecasted to hit Tijuana on the Baja California peninsula in Mexico, as confirmed by the state governor. As early Sunday brought light rain, authorities initiated National Guard escorts on the Tijuana-Mexicali highway due to the impending storm.

• 20 Aug 2023, 04:48:23 PM IST

  Over 6500 Mexican soldiers prep for Hilary, locals remain unfazed

  More than 6,500 Mexican soldiers have been deployed to Baja California and Baja California Sur as Hurricane Hilary approaches, distributing supplies and constructing shelters in coastal states. Despite these preparations, some individuals remain unperturbed due to past false alarms.

• 20 Aug 2023, 04:31:54 PM IST

  Governor Gavin Newsom declares state of emergency in 11 California counties

  Governor Gavin Newsom labeled Hurricane Hilary an "unprecedented storm" and declared a state of emergency in 11 California counties, including Los Angeles, San Diego, and Orange on Saturday. He announced the closure of several beaches and 10 state parks, while over 7,500 emergency responders were dispatched across the state in response to the situation.

• 20 Aug 2023, 04:26:15 PM IST

  LA Mayor declares local emergency, activates emergency operations center

  Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles has declared a local emergency, seeking swift access to state and federal resources. She also revealed the activation of the city's emergency operations center at Level 2. This level is typically reserved for significant events like major fires, storms, or moderate earthquakes.

• 20 Aug 2023, 04:03:29 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary spurs closures and cancellations across Southern California. Check how your weekend plans may be affected

  Due to Hurricane Hilary's tropical storm warning, a range of closures and cancellations have been announced across Southern California. The Los Angeles Zoo is closing on Sunday and Monday, as is the LA County Parks system, encompassing various facilities and venues. The Disney Junior & Friends Playdate events at Downtown Disney District won't take place on Sunday. 

  LA's CicLAvia event and the Los Angeles Football Club vs. Colorado Rapids soccer match have also been canceled and postponed respectively. California State Parks is temporarily closing all state beaches in Orange and San Diego counties on both Sunday and Monday due to the storm's potential effects. Additionally, inland state parks like Cuyamaca State Park will close due to flooding concerns.

• 20 Aug 2023, 03:46:56 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary: Storm weakens to Category 1, but risk doesn't

  According to experts, despite being downgraded to Category 1, Hurricane Hilary remains a significant risk. Jamie Rhome, the Deputy Director of the US National Hurricane Center on Saturday, emphasized that the downgrading doesn't diminish the dangers, particularly the threat of flooding. He urged people not to underestimate the situation due to the weakening trend. "Don’t let the weakening trend and the intensity lower your guard," Rhome stated.

• 20 Aug 2023, 03:06:33 PM IST

  Hurricane Hilary Live Updates: Hilary weakens to Category 1 hurricane as storm moves within striking distance of Mexican peninsula

  Hurricane Hilary Live Updates: Hurricane Hilary moved closer to the coast of Mexico early Sunday on a continued path to the Baja California peninsula as a weakened but dangerous Category 1 hurricane, which the National Weather Service said was likely to bring “catastrophic and life-threatening” flooding to the region and cross into the southwestern U.S. as a tropical storm.