Southwestern United States at Risk as Tropical Storm Hilary Approaches

Tropical Storm Hilary Expected to Strengthen into Major Hurricane

Tropical Storm Hilary, which formed off the coast of Mexico, is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane and potentially bring significant rainfall to Southern California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, and Las Vegas.

The storm is forecasted to move northwest towards Mexico's Baja California peninsula before weakening and impacting the Southwestern United States.

The National Hurricane Center is closely monitoring the storm's progress.

National Hurricane Center Urges Monitoring of Forecast

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is urging people to monitor the forecast as a system with uncertain intensity and track approaches.

The main concern for the Southwestern U.S. is expected to be heavy rainfall.

The NHC advises people to be prepared for effects such as large swells and strong winds heading into the weekend.

Heavy Rainfall Event Expected in Southwest and California

The National Weather Service has stated that there is growing confidence in a heavy rainfall event that will affect parts of the Southwest and California from Saturday to Monday.

This event is expected to be caused by a deep moisture plume and favorable conditions as Hurricane Hilary transitions out of the tropical east Pacific.

Impact on California, Nevada, and Arizona

Tropical Storm Hilary is expected to bring heavy rainfall to parts of California, Nevada, and Arizona.

Local rainfall amounts could vary from 1-4 inches, but these predictions may change as the storm develops.

Potential for Flash Floods in Southwest

Tropical Cyclone Hilary is expected to move along the Baja Peninsula this weekend, bringing an increase in moisture and rainfall activity.

The heaviest rainfall is predicted to occur over southwest Arizona and southeast California, with a high potential for flash floods in these areas.

Monsoon Season and Tropical Activity

The National Weather Service branch for Las Vegas has announced that the monsoon season has been relatively quiet so far, but that could change this weekend due to tropical activity.

The public is advised to stay updated for further information.

Rare Tropical Cyclones in California

According to a tweet from the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, tropical cyclones hitting California are rare due to unfavorable conditions such as cooler water and high pressure.

However, the state has been more commonly affected by the remnants of these storms.

Flash Flooding a Significant Concern

In recent decades, Southern California has experienced a couple of tropical storm strength systems that moved over the region.

Meteorologist Jim Cantore from the Weather Channel has stated that the current weather pattern is allowing Tropical Storm Hilary and its moisture to move north towards Southern California on Sunday and Monday.

Cantore also warned that flash flooding is a significant concern, particularly in areas with burn scars and steep terrain.