A rare June storm system swept through Los Angeles this week, bringing dramatic lightning strikes, thunder, and even hail to neighborhoods unaccustomed to such weather More than 160 lightning strikes were recorded in just an hour during the peak of the storm, with vivid footage showing bolts hitting dangerously close to homes and children in Huntington Beach.
The storms, fueled by a low-pressure system drawing tropical moisture from Mexico, produced intense downpours, gusty winds, and pea-sized hail in some areas While rainfall was generally light in most of the city—about a tenth of an inch or less—higher elevations like Mt. Baldy saw heavier downpours, leading to flash flood warnings in parts of San Bernardino County.
Dry lightning, a phenomenon where rain evaporates before reaching the ground, posed a significant wildfire risk, especially in grassy, dry areas Fortunately, no major fires were reported as of Wednesday, but experts warned that the risk remains high as summer approaches.
Along the coast, high surf and dangerous rip currents added to the hazards, prompting beach advisories and warnings for swimmers and surfers.
The unusual weather is expected to clear by Thursday, with temperatures returning to the upper 70s and more typical June conditions resuming For now, residents are urged to stay alert for lightning, avoid outdoor activities during storms, and keep emergency plans updated.
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