Massive snowfall results in California’s largest snowpack on record

Massive snowfall results in California’s largest snowpack on record

17 atmospheric rivers and several non-atmospheric-river storms since December 2022 pushed California’s snowpack to its largest level in recorded history, surpassing the previous record set in 1982-1983. In addition, the state’s drought conditions have improved significantly since the start of the water year, with severe to exceptional drought conditions now covering only 6.99% of the area, down from 93% just one year ago.

EF-1 tornado hits Montebello, California — the strongest tornado to impact Los Angeles Metro area since March 1983

EF-1 tornado hits Montebello, California — the strongest tornado to impact Los Angeles Metro area since March 1983

An EF-1 tornado hit the city of Montebello near Los Angeles, southern California on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, ripping roofs off buildings, throwing cars around, and injuring 1 person. This is the strongest tornado to impact the Los Angeles Metro area since March 1983, the National Weather Service (NWS) said. It is also the second tornado to hit California within 24 hours.

More than 700 000 people lost power, 5 killed as heavy rainfall and strong winds hit California, U.S.

More than 700 000 people lost power, 5 killed as heavy rainfall and strong winds hit California, U.S.

Southern California faces a barrage of extreme weather as record-breaking rainfall, powerful wind gusts, and widespread power outages impact the region. At least 5 people lost their lives. While the torrential downpour provides relief from the long-term drought, it brings additional challenges, including flooding, flight cancellations, and complications for communities in the mountains still recovering from recent snowstorms.

Very strong M6.8 earthquake hits near the coast of Ecuador

Very strong M6.8 earthquake hits near the coast of Ecuador

A very strong earthquake registered by the USGS and IGEPN as M6.7 hit Ecuador at 17:12 UTC on March 18, 2023. IGEPN is reporting a depth of 37 km (23 miles); USGS 66.4 km (41 miles). EMSC is reporting M6.7 at a depth of 80 km (50 miles).

Flash floods claim 16 lives in earthquake-stricken Turkish provinces

Flash floods claim 16 lives in earthquake-stricken Turkish provinces

The death toll from the devastating flash floods in the Turkish provinces of Şanlıurfa and Adıyaman has risen to 16. These provinces were severely affected by last month’s powerful earthquakes. Heavy rainfall since March 14, 2023, has disrupted normal life, with streets and hospitals being inundated and highways collapsing.