California residents face strong winds and heavy rainfall as a series of storms continues to impact the state, according to AFP.
The intense weather began on Tuesday, marking a stretch of wet conditions across the normally arid western United States. Recent weeks have brought a string of storms along the coastline, delivering record-setting rainfall to several regions. Forecasters anticipate more powerful systems emerging from the Pacific on Wednesday and Thursday, and residents in the expected path are urged to stay prepared.
This weather pattern is being described by National Weather Service experts as exceptionally active for a large storm system. Officials warn that widespread flooding could occur, with potential road erosion, hillside instability, and the risk of fallen trees. Power outages and disruptions to transportation and commerce may follow, underscoring the seriousness of the event and the importance of readiness.
Northern California was jolted by a severe storm on New Year’s Eve, triggering landslides and power failures as dams released water and roads became flooded. At least one fatality has been reported in connection with a submerged vehicle, highlighting the real dangers posed by these conditions. San Francisco recorded nearly 14 centimeters of rainfall on December 31, ranking it as the second-wettest day in the city’s recorded history.
Meteorologists noted that a potent storm system, coupled with an atmospheric river, would bring substantial and persistent rainfall along with strong winds from Wednesday into Thursday. Officials cautioned that the Bay Area and the Central Coast should brace for heightened flood risk and wind-related damage during this period.
Across the plains, heavy rain is expected to transition into significant mountain snow as moist air rises. The Sierra Nevada could see snow depths reaching as high as 1.2 meters, creating challenging travel conditions and potential disruptions to communities and services in the high country.