California is facing an “extreme” risk of flash flooding in March as warmer weather starts to melt record-breaking snowfall levels and an atmospheric river strikes Friday.
The Golden State has faced back-to-back extreme weather events since the end of 2022, including record-breaking snowfall, blizzards in Los Angeles and massive flooding damage. Residents were warned Wednesday to prepare for the latest storm system, an atmospheric river that made landfall late Thursday night, the National Weather Service stated.
By 8:00 a.m. Friday, streams in San Luis Obispo County were already reaching concerning levels due to the heavy rainfall from the atmospheric river, NWS reported.
“A dangerous excessive rainfall event is underway across much of Central California. Areal rainfall totals of 4-9 inches through today, atop areas with saturated soil and deep snowpack will cause widespread and severe flooding impacts, particularly in the High Risk (pink) area,” NWS continued, sharing a graphic of the impacted areas.
The atmospheric river is easily visible on satellite, extending out just south of Hawaii. Rain will increase as the main moisture plume moves south into our area. #atmosphericriver #socal #carain #satellite pic.twitter.com/6llbpU3AZB
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) March 10, 2023
Already a lot of rain accumulating over northwest #SanLuisObispo County. Streams near #Cambria and #SanSimeon are already reaching concerning levels. Significant flooding is likely soon. #cawx #larain pic.twitter.com/eov0IOSG5F
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) March 10, 2023
A dangerous excessive rainfall event is underway across much of Central California. Areal rainfall totals of 4-9 inches through today, atop areas with saturated soil and deep snowpack will cause widespread and severe flooding impacts, particularly in the High Risk (pink) area. pic.twitter.com/ll8JbKtjDE
— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) March 10, 2023
Another wet, warm weather system is expected early next week as well, adding an additional rain and heavy snow to an already wet weekend. Be sure to stay up-to-date on the latest road conditions and closures, at https://t.co/wAigFjpNZ3. #CAwx pic.twitter.com/gaejwOjvqn
— NWS Sacramento (@NWSSacramento) March 10, 2023
Flash flooding causes many death each year, with many of the deaths being preventable. Most flood deaths occur because people make poor choices while driving. Keep these key safety tips in mind when you are out driving near flood waters. pic.twitter.com/GAiGHXvHcr
— NWS Paducah, KY (@NWSPaducah) March 10, 2023
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