NORTHERN CALIFORNIA — A strong atmospheric river is bringing heavy rain and high elevation snow to California that started Thursday night through Sunday, with more rain possible early next week.
The greatest impacts are expected over Central and Northern California, particularly flooding across the Sierras.
Several feet of water are trapped in Central and Northern California snowpack. Heavy rains will cause significant melting of heavy snowpack below 6,000 feet and could lead to significant flooding, road and infrastructure damage in those areas.
Heavy rains are expected to continue through early next week, which could worsen and prolong flooding impacts.
Some national forests, like Sequoia National Forest, have already closed many forest-managed roads. Closures are being put in place for public and employee safety. Heavy rain can put forest visitors and residents at risk. Debris flows and flash floods often develop with little warning.
Safety tips for heavy rain and flooding
Please act with extra caution if in affected areas during this high-alert weather event.
• Do not camp or park vehicles along streams or rivers.
• Move to higher ground if heavy rain or rising water occurs.
• NEVER drive through flooded roadways.
Weather and planning resources
California National Forests | Contact Directory
Caltrans QuickMap — Current information on road closures
Weather Watches, Warnings and Advisories | National Weather Service
Turn Around, Don’t Drown | Ready.gov
California Office of Emergency Services | Cal OES
National Forests in California prepare for rain-on-snow and flooding conditions into next week
- UNITED STATES FOREST SERVICE
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