Governor Gavin Newsom of California (D) has announced a state of emergency for significant portions of Southern California in anticipation of the approaching Hurricane Hilary.
In a statement, Newsom emphasized the collaborative efforts of federal, local, and state personnel to provide resources, equipment, and expertise to communities potentially affected by Hurricane Hilary. He stated, “We’re mobilizing all of government as we prepare and respond to this unprecedented storm.”
Earlier reports from Breitbart News indicated that Hurricane Hilary rapidly intensified over the Pacific, initially achieving Category 4 status. However, by Saturday, it was reclassified as a Category 2 storm, featuring maximum sustained winds of 110 miles per hour.
As of approximately 11:00 AM Pacific Time, the storm has made landfall in Southern California, resulting in “catastrophic and life-threatening flooding” across Mexico and Southern California. Tragically, there are already reports of fatalities attributed to the flooding in the region at the time of this publication.
#Hilary makes landfall in northern Baja California. Tropical storm conditions and heavy rains already affecting portions of the southwestern United States. pic.twitter.com/OS9EYPUM0y
— NHC Eastern Pacific (@NHC_Pacific) August 20, 2023
Governor Newsom’s office has dispatched “over 7,500 personnel on the ground” to assist local communities in managing the aftermath of Hurricane Hilary, as indicated in a press release.
The emergency proclamation was signed by the Governor in San Diego while he was engaged with California National Guard troops. Alongside this, Newsom held discussions with first responders and local officials, including San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. His interactions extended to federal officials, including contacts with the White House.
Governor Newsom has additionally activated the “State Operations Center at the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.” He highlighted that this center will play a vital role in closely monitoring the impacts of rain, wind, flash flooding, and potential power outages. The goal is to facilitate coordination among state agencies, ensuring the provision of resources in preparation for possible further impacts. The state’s Medical and Health Coordination Center has also been activated to oversee and coordinate response efforts. Moreover, a statewide alert has been issued to all health facilities.
Southern California hasn’t faced a hurricane or tropical storm since “El Cordonazo” in 1939.
