Winter storms in California have caused a critical situation over the Christmas period, with a preliminary death toll of at least four people, thousands affected, and severe damage to infrastructure. Given the magnitude of the phenomenon, state authorities declared a state of emergency in several regions of the state.
Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in six California counties: Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Shasta, with the aim of accelerating the disaster response, mobilizing additional resources, and requesting federal support.
Gavin Newsom declares a state of emergency in California due to storms
The emergency declaration was issued on Christmas Eve after heavy rains, strong winds, and landslides caused flooding, widespread power outages, and hazardous conditions on roads and in urban areas.
This legal measure allows the California government:
- Deploy additional emergency personnel.
- Speed up the repair of damaged infrastructure.
- Access federal funds to assist those affected.
Authorities have asked the public to avoid unnecessary travel and stay informed about possible new storms.
Read more: Trump confirms attack against Islamic Group in Nigeria
How many fatalities have the storms in California caused?
So far, authorities have confirmed at least four deaths related to the extreme weather, although investigations are ongoing to determine if there are additional victims in various parts of the state.
Among the reported cases are:
- San Diego: A tree approximately 23 meters tall fell on a 64-year-old man who was moving his vehicle during the storm.
- Mendocino County: A woman in her 70s died after being struck by a large rock during a landslide at MacKerricher State Park. Although she was rescued from the water by passersby, she lost consciousness and was pronounced dead at the scene.
- Redding area: A motorist died after being trapped inside his vehicle, which was flooded by heavy rains.
- Sacramento County: A sheriff’s deputy lost his life in a vehicle accident related to adverse weather conditions.
Power outages and damage from strong winds affect thousands in California
At the peak of the winter storms, power outages in California affected more than 140,000 people across the state.
Strong winds, combined with fallen trees and constant rain, caused significant damage to the electrical infrastructure, leaving entire communities without power for several hours.
Utility companies continue restoration efforts, although they warn that weather conditions could delay the work.
