Thousands without power, extreme flooding expected with more heavy storms in California
CALIFORNIA – Thousands of people are without power as more heavy storms hit California. Extreme flooding is expected as well.
Thunderstorms, snow and heavy winds have hit northern California over the last few days, including Sunday, according to The Associated Press. It is believed that incoming storms and rain could bring more flooding, rising rivers and creating mudslides in areas that are still soggy from the last batches of rain.
The storm Saturday night and into Sunday reportedly knocked down trees and power lines, leaving over 300,000 people without power in Sacramento and other surrounding areas, according to KTLA.
An atmospheric river arriving Sunday night will cause significant impact to travel & infrastructure due to heavy rain, heavy mountain snow & damaging wind gusts through Tuesday. River flooding, mudslides, power outages, road closures, tree damage & snow load are expected impacts. pic.twitter.com/gHX53Fa57z
— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) January 8, 2023
In a news conference Sunday, California state officials, including Gov. Gavin Newsom, said that they were in contact with President Joe Biden and working to request an emergency declaration so that California could get some help from the federal government, according to KTLA.
Newsom said, according to the AP, that 12 people have died as a result of the “violent weather” over the last 10 days. Newsom also warned that the upcoming storms could be even more dangerous, urging Californians to stay home.
The National Weather Service Prediction Center said Sunday on Twitter that travel and infrastructure would be greatly impacted due to heavy rain, heavy snow at the mountains and strong wind gusts.
Heavy rain tonight – tomorrow morning brings a threat of roadway, urban, small stream, & river flooding to interior #NorCal. Follow these tips to stay safe from flooding. Be cautious driving at night & never drive through flooded roads! More tips: https://t.co/z0epmmE4FE #CAwx pic.twitter.com/3JZA1ujfZ1
— NWS Sacramento (@NWSSacramento) January 9, 2023
The most recent storm will be the fifth one to hit California since Dec. 27, with a stronger one expected Sunday night through Tuesday, the director of the state’s office of emergency services said, according to KTLA.
“Residents and visitors across this region are advised to check their local forecast, never drive across flooded roadways (Turn Around Don’t Drown!), and have both an emergency kit and evacuation plan in place,” the National Weather Service said Sunday night.
CNN reported that a “significant atmospheric river event” is expected. And the concern is reportedly not just about the rain, snow, and wind — it’s also about the lack of break between the events for the water to recede.
The National Weather Service Sacramento said on Twitter that travel is “highly discouraged” Sunday night into Monday morning.
Thirteen thousand residents are under evacuation warnings in Sonoma County, just north of San Francisco, which is prone to flooding, according to the AP. The Russian River in the area is expected to “overspill its banks” over the next few days, the AP reported.
