Hurricane Hilary expected to cause catastrophic flooding across Southwest

Hilary is still a hurricane and has winds of 130 km/h (80 mph).

Rain started over portions of southern California and western Arizona into the Great Basin overnight. The rain will pick up in intensity today. There is the potential that some areas could see annual rainfall amounts in just a few hours.

Across the Southwestern United States rainfall amounts of 75 to 150 mm (3 to 6 inches) are expected with isolated amounts near 250 mm (10 inches) across portions of southern California and southern Nevada. Portions of Oregon and Idaho will see rainfall totals of 25 to 75 mm (1 to 3 inches) with local amounts of 125 mm (5 inches) through Tuesday morning.

Today through Monday catastrophic flooding impacts are expected.

Strong winds are also likely, especially over higher terrain.

Dangerous ocean conditions are expected along the coast of California over the next couple of days. Rip currents are also expected.

There is the potential for tornadoes today over parts of the lower Colorado River Valley, Mojave Desert, and Imperial Valley regions.

Hilary will quickly weaken as it moves into the interior Southwest overnight.

Check your local weather forecasts here.