Winter storm brings flooding, mudslides and near-whiteout snow to California

A powerful winter storm swept across California on Wednesday, bringing heavy rain, strong winds and near white-out snow in the mountains.

The system hit as millions of people travelled for the holidays, making roads hazardous across large parts of the state.

Evacuation warnings were issued in parts of Southern California, especially in areas burned by January's wildfires.

In Los Angeles, firefighters rescued a man trapped in a drainage tunnel early Wednesday.

Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in six counties, allowing state support. Emergency crews were deployed statewide, with the National Guard on standby.