Xmas storms soak Southern California

Flash flood warnings were in effect across Los Angeles and much of Southern California on Wednesday as one of the worst Christmas storms in recent memory brought heavy rain and fears of deadly mudslides.

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Flood waters flow as areas remain partially submerged after torrential rains in San Bernardino County on Wednesday.

(REUTERS)

Driven by an atmospheric river known as the "Pineapple Express" which funnels moisture from the tropics near Hawaii to the US West Coast the storm is expected to dump months' worth of rain over the coming days.

California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in several counties, including Los Angeles, to enable the rapid mobilisation and allocation of resources if required.

"Life-threatening flash flooding continues over Southern California today and tomorrow; heavy mountain snow and high winds are also ongoing," the National Weather Service (NWS) said, warning that "lives and property are in great danger".