A powerful storm that dropped heavy snow and rain caused havoc Thursday in the Los Angeles region closing the main interstate highway that connects northern and southern California, reported the DPA. The snowfall of more than 15 centimetres caused big rigs to jackknife across the highway Wednesday night, causing massive traffic jams for thousands of drivers. The Red Cross was called in to bring food to stranded drivers, many of whom were stuck overnight in the freezing conditions, the Los Angeles Times reported. Heavy rain also played havoc in lower-lying areas of Southern California, with Santa Barbara reporting a record rainfall Wednesday of 10.2 centimetres in 24 hours at Santa Barbara Airport, according to the National Weather Service - smashing the old record of 5.5 centimetres set in 1943, the service said. The harsh conditions are predicted to continue through the weekend. Authorities are warning residents about the danger of flash flooding and mudslides around areas burned in last year's devastating wildfires.
