20 August 2023 , 06:00
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A state of emergency has been proclaimed for parts of California as Hurricane Hilary threatens to smash into the state causing death and destruction. California Governor Gavin Newsom signed the emergency proclamation on Saturday meaning resources can be fast-tracked to the region to support the fight against the storm.
It also means there will be around 7,500 'boots on the ground' to help the massive operation to protect against the expected devastation the 110mph storm will bring.
Signing the papers in San Diego, Gov Newsom said: "California has thousands of people on the ground working hand-in-hand with federal and local personnel to support communities in Hurricane Hilary’s path with resources, equipment and expertise. We’re mobilizing all of government as we prepare and respond to this unprecedented storm.”
Tropical Storm Hilary is set to increase in strength as it moves northward toward California (NOAA)Gov Newsom also confirmed he was in direct communication with the White House over the storm.
Earlier in the day the National Weather Service tweeted out an update, warning about 'catastrophic flooding' that is expected to hit Sunday and Monday.
Gales, snow and rain to batter country today with 80mph wind gusts
The service said: "Key Messages for Hurricane #Hilary: Catastrophic flooding impacts are expected late tonight through early Monday in portions of the Southwestern United States. Hurricane conditions are expected along the west-central coast of the Baja Peninsula later tonight."
The warnings come after large swathes of the coastal state were advised to flee their homes and seek safer regions.
People on Catalina Island were advised to leave and special transport has been put in place to support them.
A spokesperson for the City of Avalon on Catalina, said: "Due to a forecast of storm impacts and possibly prolonged SCE utility outages an advisory has been issued. Catalina Island visitors, residents that are unable to sustain without electrical power, and those with medical, access and functional needs, are strongly encouraged to leave the island today, Saturday, August 19th. Departure via Catalina Express is recommended at your earliest opportunity.
Hurricane Hilary has already brought flooding to parts of Mexico (David Guzman/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)"Red Cross, LA County, and the City of Long Beach will have services available at the Catalina Express Ferry Terminal, including transportation, shelter, and other essential services.
"Avalon Harbor staff are working to safely manage marina infrastructure and vessels. The Avalon Bay is closed to all incoming boaters.
"LA County Sheriff’s Department and LA County Fire Department have deployed additional resources to the island to assist in preparedness and response efforts."
Although the storm has since been downgraded a number of times, it is still feared winds could reach into three figures miles per hour and more than a year's worth of rain could fall in just a matter of hours.
Mudslides, flooding and are expected to ravage parts of California.
President Joe Biden said on Friday the Federal Emergency Management Agency has organized personnel and supplies to respond to any parts of Southern California that need help following the expected devastation.
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