The California governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) said on Monday (21 August) they were “actively coordinating with local, state and federal partners to provide communities with any resources needed” to face the 70mph winds.
The situation has been exacerbated by the 5.1 earthquake that struck the city of Ojai on Sunday (20 August).
“As Tropical Storm Hilary hits California tonight, Cal OES reminds you to avoid going outside and listen to your local authorities,” local officials tweeted. “Falling debris and flooded roadways are dangerous. Stay safe California.”
https://twitter.com/Cal_OES/status/1693438675114512516
On Saturday (19 August), California governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency for much of southern California, with flood warnings in effect until 3am local time on Monday.
“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,” Newsom said. “We’re mobilising all of government as we prepare and respond to this unprecedented storm.”
The storm comes as Hawaii has been recently hit by wildfires that have burned Maui’s historic town of Lahaina to the ground, causing the death of more than 100 people.
The extreme weather conditions have also prompted a string of Foreign Office travel warnings, calling on holidaymakers in Mexico and California to follow local guidance, as well as any advice from their travel providers.
"Tropical storm conditions are possible from Sunday 20 August in parts of southwest USA, as a result of Hurricane Hilary. A tropical storm watch has been issued for southern California," said the FCDO.
"You should closely monitor local and international weather updates from the US National Hurricane Center and follow the advice of local authorities and the tour operator, including any evacuation orders."
