A Foreign Office travel warning has been issued after widespread flooding struck California.

At least three people were reported to have died due to falling trees as the record-breaking rainfall triggered a state of emergency in eight counties.

Mudslides and debris flows were reported in the Los Angeles area, with some residents forced from homes in the Hollywood Hills.

Damage was also reported in the Bel Air and Beverly Hills neighbourhoods of the city.   

The updated Foreign Office advice said: “There has been widespread flooding in southern California, particularly concentrated in San Bernadino, Ventura and Los Angeles counties. 

“The storm is forecast to bring hazardous sea and weather conditions to the area from Sunday, 04 February through Wednesday, 07 February.

“Visitors and residents should monitor the weather forecast and follow advice and guidance from local authorities, particularly around evacuation orders, road closures, power outages, and what to do in the event of potential contamination of drinking water.”

More than 300 mudslides were reported in Los Angeles on Monday with power outages affecting thousands of residents. 

Los Angeles International airport (LAX) reported delays to departing and arriving flights yesterday.

Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass, urging people to stay off the roads, said: “To be cautious, to be careful, to be safe and please stay home.”

She added on Monday: “We anticipate the rain for a couple of more days.”