As predicted, Tropical Storm Hilary drenched Southern California with a torrential downpour, causing flash floods and mudslides. The storm’s severity prompted the closure of many schools on Monday.
The northbound 101 Freeway in Studio City was closed due to a mudslide, and the California Highway Patrol estimated a two-hour closure at Universal Studios Boulevard.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Fire Department reported more than 4,100 emergency calls, a significant increase from the average number. Despite the storm’s severity, no major injuries or deaths have been reported.
According to the National Weather Service of Los Angeles, Hilary shattered virtually all rainfall daily records. Videos from the scene revealed dangerous debris flows in the San Bernardino Mountains during Sunday’s heaviest rain.
In response to the widespread flooding, the California Highway Patrol closed the eastbound 10 Freeway due to mudslides. With no estimated reopening time, traffic was forced to turn around. The northbound 111 Freeway