California bracing for more snow storms

Southern California residents are bracing themselves for yet more severe weather as storms, rain and snow continue to pummel the region, Skinews reported.

After days of record snow, high winds and heavy rainfall, the situation is expected to worsen over the next few days across what is known as the Golden State.

Weather conditions are so extreme that Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared a state of emergency in some areas. He also ordered homes and businesses to be evacuated in affected areas.

In a statement, the governor said: "Flood conditions caused by these storms are causing the evacuation of residents and the opening of emergency shelters."

He added that the current forecast predicts "extraordinary and continuing rainfall, which will pose a continued threat of flooding in urban areas".

In response, Los Angeles county ordered the evacuation of more than 230 residents, while fire stations offered sand bags as reinforcements for homes.

So far, many areas have seen 10 inches of rain, road closures, power outages and a record number of motorists have been calling emergency services for help.

Authorities are bracing themselves for the worst of the weather today, with more flooding, storms, hail, snow and even small tornados.

Ski resorts in the San Gabriel and San Bernadino mountains are celebrating after seeing up to nine inches of snow on Tuesday, with more expected throughout the week.