Flood in Orange County, California

Orange County officials estimate the total damages to public and private property at $36 million, due the 10+ of rain received by many areas. The city of Laguna Beach was certainly the hardest hit, making up approximately $12 million of the county's damages. Twelve miles of beaches in the county also had to be closed due to massive amounts of debris and pollution in storm runoff.

A large Pacific plume of moisture ahead of an advancing trough of low pressure brought heavy rain and periods of serious flooding for nearly a week. The plume of moisture responsible was a form of an Atmospheric River. The mountain areas, particularly the San Bernardino range, experienced record large rainfall totals and many areas of flash flooding, debris flows and mud slides. Most rivers in the county warning area reached flood stage. Other effects include numerous traffic collisions, roadway flooding and closures, swift water rescues, beach closures and millions of dollars in damage to homes, businesses and infrastructure. Along with numerous city and governor-declared States of Emergency, President Obama proclaimed a Federal disaster declaration for 10 counties in California, including all four counties comprising the SGX CWA.