Flash floods hit the state of California, USA on December 14th 2021.

Up to a foot of rain fell in areas of Southern California over a 3 day period. Hard ground, caused by a period of drought, meant poor drainage causing flash flooding.

Mandatory evacuations were ordered, due to the potential of landslides. Cars were swept away by the force of the water, with other vehicles damaged by the floods.

Resue operations are underway to help people caught in floods. Low laying areas, including canyons, have suffered heavy floods. In other areas, homes have been flooded, with debris carried onto streets where floodwater has subsided.

The period of rain has been caused by an atmospheric river bringing water from the Pacific Ocean, and has also caused heavy snowfall at higher altitudes.

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