URGENT UPDATE: California is bracing for severe rain and flash floods as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued widespread flood alerts across the state. As of Friday morning, December 29, 2023, the situation is dire with an atmospheric river event impacting numerous regions.
Flood watches are now in effect for all counties from Merced and Mariposa to Kern, affecting the San Joaquin Valley, coastal ranges, and the mountains and deserts of Kern County. Residents in the following areas should remain vigilant:
– Apple and Lucerne Valleys
– San Bernardino County Mountains
– Sacramento Valley
– Northern San Joaquin Valley
– Los Angeles County
– Ventura County
– Santa Barbara County
– San Francisco County
– Northern San Francisco Bay Area
In addition to these warnings, flood advisories have been issued for areas including northwestern Santa Clara County and parts of Santa Cruz County, along with several others, indicating conditions that could lead to significant inconvenience and potential threats to life and property.
As of early Friday, flash flood warnings are already in effect for areas of Ventura County. The NWS warns that further heavy rainfall is imminent, with additional bands of moderate to heavy rain expected to arrive throughout the day.
The NWS Weather Prediction Center (WPC) states, “After several days of deluge from heavy rainfall, California can expect to dry out this weekend as the last of a series of energetic low-pressure systems is forecast to move past the region.” However, before that respite, residents must prepare for the risks associated with strong winds and embedded thunderstorms, particularly along coastal areas.
Authorities emphasize the importance of listening to emergency officials and staying updated with local warnings. “Please listen to emergency officials, stay tuned to local warnings, and have a safe holiday,” the NWS advises.
For those in mountainous areas, heavy snow is also forecast for the high terrain of the Sierra Nevada, which will taper off by tonight.
Residents are urged to check the NWS website and social media channels for real-time updates and alerts specific to their locations. Stay safe and prepared as California navigates through this severe weather event.
