A powerful storm carrying a strong atmospheric river laid siege to California over the last several days — setting records in parts of the state — with evacuations orders still ongoing Thursday because of the risk of life-threatening flooding and debris flows.

An emphasis has been placed on burn scar areas that are more susceptible to flooding, mudslides and debris flows.

A record-setting Christmas storm battering Southern California brought rushing floods that have already killed at least three people. Water and debris, along with mudslides, have led to evacuation orders

The authorities said some residents had resisted leaving their homes on the holidays, but forecasters warned the storm could be deadly, especially where burn scars from this year’s fires remain.

Residents in the Malibu area are bracing for heavy rain as a Christmas week storm is set to arrive in Southern California on Tuesday.

Officials have urged people to reconsider their holiday plans in view of the storm. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

Forecasters say expected 'worst Christmas storm' is elevating flood risk for a large swath of southwest California.

A flood watch remained for the Bay Area after the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning overnight until 6 a.m.