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ANAHEIM, Calif. (afternoon Aug. 20, 2023) — Here is your Sunday afternoon update for storm Hilary:
Our forecast window for the strongest Anaheim rain and wind is from now through about 9-10 p.m. with lighter but continued rain after that.
We have yet to see the strongest impacts as Hilary continues moving north. The storm’s center has crossed the border and is in San Diego County.
Expect several hours of rain, powerful at times, with winds ranging from 20 to 30 mph with stronger, shorter gusts.
For context, a 30 mph wind is considered a strong breeze, according to the National Weather Service. A gale force wind often heard about with storms is 39-46 miles per hour.
Based on radar, which is always subject to change, we could see the hardest rain from 6-7 p.m. with another band around 9 p.m.
With what we’ve already seen and what’s to come, we expect a daily total of about 2 inches of rain.
If best estimates hold, this is on par with a strong winter storm, like we saw in late 2022 and January, but with higher temperatures and humidity.
Winds now through about 7 p.m. are from the north and northeast and are set to shift to the west after 8 p.m., reflecting the storm’s circular motion.
There are no major incidents in Anaheim at this time. Crews remain on duty, monitoring and ready to respond.
Continue to use caution.
Earthquake
As if Hilary weren’t enough, some in our city may have felt an earthquake at 2:41 p.m. It was centered near Ojai in Ventura County, about 115 miles north, and was measured at 5.1 with aftershocks.
There are no reports of injuries or major damage in Ojai area and no known issues in Anaheim.
Other updates, what to know:
* Continue to track weather and be aware of conditions.
* Follow city of Anaheim social media for updates and responses to community questions.
* Weather-driven power outages are possible with crews ready to respond.
* Charge phones, have flashlights and think about what to do if power goes out.
* We have seen a handful of outages today, all quickly addressed. Report and track outages at Anaheim.net/outages or call (714) 765-3300.
* Never approach a downed power line.
* Businesses are open across our city with no major issues. But use your judgement for nonessential outings and consider staying home during the strongest rain and wind.
* We have seen and will see water buildup and spot flooding in streets alongside curbs, in driveways, intersections and elsewhere.
* Avoid water buildup in streets, do not drive through flooded areas.
* Wind will scatter tree branches, palm fronds and other debris. Be alert around your home and while out.
* Be watchful of trees during peak rain and wind. Should you see an immediate tree concern, call police dispatch at (714) 765-1900 for routing to Public Works.
Sunday night, Monday
Rain and wind will remain through Sunday night, overnight into Monday with clearing projected for the morning.
After about 8 p.m. Sunday, wind is forecast in the teens with rain percentages in the 70s and 80s and steadily declining.
While improved, continue to use caution into the evening hours.
The heaviest rain is seen clearing by about 8 a.m. Monday with chances of occasional rain.
With an improving forecast, schools could be open on Monday. But, please, check with your school or district.
Monday waste collection, street sweeping
Waste collection will take place as scheduled Monday.
Make sure to place bins a foot or more from the curb to allow stormwater to flow and to prevent water buildup around your home.
Monday street sweeping is likely with a clearing forecast. But there will be no citations on Monday.
If you see the street sweeper coming and conditions are favorable, we thank you for moving your vehicle.
Street sweeping amid a storm like this is critical to prevent more debris from washing to our ocean.
