Sharjah24 - AFP: The latest in a series of winter storms that have already produced near-record snowfall and torrential rain was another major storm that was headed for California on Thursday.
Over the coming days, two atmospheric rivers -- moisture-laden weather systems chugging in from the Pacific -- were expected to dump heavy snow on already-buried mountain ranges, and bring torrential rain to lower elevations.
Some areas could see as much as seven inches (18 centimeters) of rain, meteorologists said, with the risk of flooding and mudslides in central and northern parts of the state.
Forecasters said the rain could fall in areas that had previously seen a lot of snow, which could cause sudden runoff that rivers and water courses might struggle to contain.
"A much wetter and warmer pattern is expected, especially Thursday night into Saturday where heavy rain is anticipated," meteorologist Bianca Feldkircher said in a video posted to Twitter.
"This in addition to some snow melts, especially in those elevations below 5,000 feet (1,500 meters) will lead to flooding and rises on rivers."
Southern parts of the state will not escape the heavy weather, although Los Angeles and its immediate surroundings were less likely to be deluged.
But the National Weather Service in San Diego warned of "an incoming rain-maker" on Friday, which could affect mountainous areas that have seen heavy snowfall in recent weeks.
"There could be some significant impacts in the #SanBernardino Mountains due to rain falling on existing snowpack," NWS San Diego tweeted.
"The deep snowpack will be able to absorb the rain, but the plowed roads and driveways could have some water flowing over them.
"Additionally, the rain will add additional weight to the snowpack, and could further impact structures. Clear those roofs of snow if you can!"
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