California Braces for Severe Storms Bringing Heavy Rain and Snow
Residents of California are preparing for the impact of two powerful storms set to bring heavy rain and snow to the state. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings with forecasts of excessive rain, potential flooding, and the risk of precipitation in various parts of the state.
According to the NWS office in San Francisco, the first storm is expected to bring heavy rain starting tonight, particularly affecting the Pacific Northwest coast and the northern half of the state. The second storm, described as a “potent low-pressure system,” will deliver another round of precipitation across the state on Sunday night into Monday morning.
The NWS has also warned of very heavy snowfall in the Sierra Nevada on Monday, with the potential for several feet of new snow accumulation.
The forecasted severe weather has prompted warnings of potential flooding for more than 27 million people in the northern part of the state and parts of Los Angeles. The NWS emphasized that the soils around the Bay Area are near saturation level, raising the risk of mudslides as rain flows quickly.
The storms are attributed to the frequent occurrence of “atmospheric rivers” along the West Coast of the United States, which can generate between 30% and 50% of annual precipitation in the region. While they are essential for the water supply, atmospheric rivers can also produce storms leading to flooding and landslides, according to NOAA.
At least 46 atmospheric rivers were recorded on the West Coast of the United States during the 2023 hydrological year, with nine categorized as strong and two as extreme. California experienced major flooding and significant snowfall as a result.
The impact of the storms is expected to be significant, with potential flooding and other weather-related hazards. Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.