California Experiences Widespread Flooding, Mudslides, and Road Closures
I. Overview of Weather Impact
Crews have initiated mud clearance operations on highways across California following a series of severe weather events. Forecasters predict additional thunderstorms are imminent. Recent downpours, coinciding with high tides, have led to significant flooding, road closures, and numerous rescues of individuals from stranded vehicles.
II. Northern California Conditions
Five northern California counties are currently under a flood watch. Projections indicate the possibility of up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) of rain through Monday night in these regions, which have experienced intermittent precipitation since late December. Mountainous areas are expected to receive a minimum of 1 foot (0.3 meters) of snow, according to the National Weather Service office in Eureka.
III. San Francisco Bay Area Flooding
Near the San Francisco Bay Area, water levels are progressively receding after roadways, including those spanning from Sausalito to San Rafael, became inundated. This flooding event coincided with