Winter storm hits southern California. by Rob McElwee
Hundreds of motorists were stranded along a 40 mile stretch of motorway in southern California yesterday after a winter storm brought heavy rain and snow to the area. The drivers became stuck near Tejon Pass, which runs above 4000ft through Tehachapi Mountains in the south of the state. It is not yet clear when the interstate will reopen, as more sleet is forecast to fall through the course of the day.
Overnight the storm dumped nearly 7 inches (178mm) of rain in some parts of Ventura County, with Santa Barbara receiving a record breaking 4.16 inches (106mm). Flash flood watches were issued for southern California areas hit by wildfire last year, but so far only minor mudslides have been reported.
A storm watch remains in effect for southern California until later tonight, alongside a number of tornado warnings. The National Weather Service has warned of another storm approaching the state from Mexico over the weekend, bringing further heavy rain, but less snow to Los Angeles.
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