An intense storm system has descended upon Los Angeles County, unleashing heavy rain and dangerously high winds, resulting in evacuation orders in affected areas. The powerful storm has brought about "life threatening" flood risks, prompting officials to issue a flood watch for parts of Ventura and Los Angeles Counties until Tuesday afternoon.

The impact of the storm has been evident in downtown LA, where a staggering 4.10 inches of rain fell on Sunday alone, shattering the previous February 4 record set back in 1927 by over 1.5 inches. Such downpours have made history, as Sunday marked the third wettest February day ever recorded in the city, tying for the 10th wettest day overall in Los Angeles' 147-year records.

The heavy rainfall has triggered destructive mudslides in certain hillside areas, causing significant damage to homes and properties. Studio City saw two homes sustain serious damage when mud and debris cascaded down Lockridge Road, leading fire crews to evacuate residents from nine neighboring houses. In the Tarzana/Encino region, three homes were affected by a debris flow along Boris Drive, resulting in further evacuations.

The Beverly Crest area also experienced mud and debris flows, severely impacting approximately five homes. The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that these homes suffered "significant" damage, leading to the displacement of around 10 residents.

In response to the hazardous conditions, officials in Los Angeles have urged residents to stay home and avoid venturing out on the roads during the storm. Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in eight counties, including Los Angeles and Orange, as they grapple with the storm's aftermath.

The severe weather conditions have also disrupted schooling in the region. Malibu's schools will remain closed on Monday due to road closures caused by the inclement weather, according to SMMUSD officials. Meanwhile, Santa Monica schools will stay open. The California State University system has advised that several local campuses, including Cal State Los Angeles, Cal State Northridge, Cal State Long Beach, and Cal State Fullerton, will be conducting classes remotely on Monday. Moreover, Long Beach City College has closed both its Liberal Arts Campus and Pacific Coast Campus for the day, with students and employees directed to check for online alternatives.

As the storm continues to unleash its fury, authorities and residents remain vigilant, hoping for the weather to abate and for the affected areas to recover from the devastation caused by this powerful storm.