A powerful storm is sweeping through the Inland Empire for the next two days, bringing heavy rainfall and dangerous flooding to parts of Riverside County Monday.
The storm will deliver prolonged periods of rain and mountain snow, with gusty south winds in the deserts, according to the National Weather Service.
Rainfall rates for Sunday night through Tuesday morning are expected to be 2.5 to 5 inches per hour for the Inland Empire, and 2-4 inches per hour for the Riverside County mountains.
More sporadic periods of rainfall will continue Tuesday until Friday.
Snow levels will rise to 7,000 to 8,000 feet Sunday night through Monday evening, falling to around 5,500 feet by Tuesday afternoon.
A flood watch is in effect until 4 a.m. Tuesday in the Inland Empire, which include the cities of Moreno Valley, Palm Springs, Riverside, Corona, Cathedral City and Palm Desert. Forecasters warned of possibly excessive runoff that could result in flooded rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying areas.
“Conditions quickly, and severely, deteriorate tonight into Monday morning across Orange County and western portions of the Inland Empire and San Bernardino County Mountains. Precipitation intensity will only increase across these areas on Monday, and life-threatening flash flooding will be possible,” according to the NWS.
The weather service also warned of an “atmospheric river” — large amounts of water vapors and strong winds released in the form of rain or snow.
Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in eight counties in the state, including Riverside and San Bernardino counties. The proclamation includes provisions authorizing a California National Guard response if tasked, facilitating unemployment benefits for impacted residents, and making it easier for out-of-state contractors and utilities to repair storm damage.
The other counties included were Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.
A winter storm warning will be in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday. Forecasters predict dry and milder weather after Saturday.
The Riverside County Fire Department was providing a limited number of sandbags per household to reduce or prevent flood water damage. Residents were advised to contact the nearest fire department location.
For more information, visit linktr.ee/calfirerru.