A major atmospheric river storm is barreling toward California, raising the specter of damaging landslides and flooding across much of the Southland.

Parts of northern California could see up to a foot of rain, but Phoenix will remain dry and warmer than usual.

The second peak of an ongoing atmospheric river storm arrived in Northern California Monday afternoon, prompting flood watches and a winter storm warning up in the Sierra.

At atmospheric river continues to slam portions of California Tuesday, with multiple inches of rain expected until Wednesday. morning.

This atmospheric river has brought heavy rain, flooding and strong wind gusts to Northern California. Wind gusts of 87 mph were reported north of San Francisco as well.

Forecasters believe there's little risk that the rains expected next week will trigger debris flows and mudslides in Southern California's recent burn areas.

The second atmospheric river in a pair of storms will bring more rain and cooler temperatures to the Los Angeles area.

Two atmospheric rivers dumped heavy rain from the valley to the Sierra resulting in rises on area waterways. Here's how the rivers are handling the increase flows.