CALIFORNIA—The current rainfall in southern California is an effect of Tropical Storm Dolores, which began south of Acapulco, Mexico on July 12.
Dolores has continued northwards and the state of California is experiencing an increase in moisture and heat, a combination that results in thunderstorms.
According to The Weather Channel, California has received a record amount of rain for the month of July. Los Angeles and San Diego have experienced most of the rain.
The National Weather Service has issued a beach hazard statement for coastal areas, including Santa Monica. The surf will increase from 3 to 5 feet, so breakers of the same length will be placed. The currents will also increase, and there will be lighting along the beaches. It is considered dangerous to swim in these conditions. If an individual finds him or herself caught in a current, it is advised that they swim parallel to the shoreline. This warning is valid until July 20.
A flash flood watch will also continue until Monday. Los Angeles is included in the watch regions, but the valleys are most likely to experience flash floods.
Tropical storms travel at a speed of 39 to 73 mph. These are not considered hurricanes, which travel at wind speeds above 74 mph.