Severe Storms Hit Northern California: Widespread Flooding and Power Outages
FORESTVILLE, Calif. (AP) — A powerful storm system has brought heavy snowfall and record-breaking rainfall to Northern California, resulting in road closures and evacuation orders, as the region grapples with the aftermath of devastating weather conditions.
On Friday, the storm continued to wreak havoc, contributing to at least two fatalities and leaving over 185,000 people without power in Washington state, predominantly around Seattle. Crews were working tirelessly to remove downed electrical lines, fallen branches, and other debris. Utility providers warned of potential outages lasting into Saturday. Meanwhile, the National Weather Service issued high surf advisories for the Pacific coast due to towering waves of up to 24 feet, exacerbating already precarious conditions at beaches.
In Northern California, severe weather prompted evacuation alerts, particularly in Humboldt County. Flooding led to the closure of key thoroughfares, including Highway 1 near Point Arena. Precipitation records were shattered, with Santa Rosa experiencing over 6.5 inches of rain in a single day—the wettest since 1998—and Sonoma County Airport recording more than 11 inches in 48 hours.
The National Weather Service cautioned residents about the risk of flash floods, rockslides, and debris flows in areas previously affected by wildfires. Officials noted significant rainfall could cause rapid runoff, impacting already vulnerable landscapes. In the Sierra Nevada, a winter storm watch is in effect as over a foot of snow is anticipated in higher elevations.
Despite the severe conditions, the East Coast benefited from the storm, welcoming rain that could alleviate wildfire threats amid a persistent drought.
The ongoing storm has transformed daily life, prompting flight cancellations at San Francisco International Airport and disrupting commutes across Northern California. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as communities brace for continued impacts from this unprecedented atmospheric river.
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