California is currently facing significant weather challenges, with an Areal Flood Watch in effect as heavy rains sweep across various regions. This warning indicates that specific areas may experience localized flooding due to excessive rain.
In San Francisco, gloomy skies have blanketed the city, while conditions in the Sierra are markedly different, with snow accumulating on the ground and coming down heavily. Brian Hickey from KCRA Three noted that chain controls are now in place along Highway 80 from Kingvale to Donner Lake due to the winter weather conditions.
Current temperatures hover around 58 degrees in Sacramento while the South Lake Tahoe area sees a mix of rain and snow with temperatures at 35 degrees. Rainfall is expected to persist throughout the day, intensifying even more as we move into tomorrow. Wind gusts may reach up to 40 mph, raising further concerns as the weather system progresses.
Across the Sierra, areas such as Cisco Grove along the South Yuba River are experiencing alarming flooding conditions. An evacuation warning is in effect for Hampshire Rocks Road due to high water levels. A family residing in a home near the river was evacuated safely, with authorities actively patrolling the area to assist anyone in need. Residents have remarked that the current flooding represents an unusual occurrence for this time of year, with some recalling flooding events not seen since the late 1990s.
In Redding, Shasta County, heavy rains caused severe flash flooding over the weekend, resulting in at least one fatality, as confirmed by the mayor of the area. While Interstate 5 remains open, drivers are advised to exercise caution and avoid navigating through flooded roadways as state response teams are deployed across nine affected counties. Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the importance of this response to protect communities from the ongoing threat of flooding, debris flows, and adverse weather.
The situation remains dynamic, and safety officials urge residents to stay informed and prepared as forecasts indicate continued severe weather in the coming days.