The recent surge of wet winter storms in California has left residents bracing for intense weather conditions. Meteorologists are cautioning people about potential flooding, hail, strong winds, and even brief tornadoes as the system gains momentum and moves southward over the next few days. With gusts exceeding 30 mph in cities like Oakland and San Jose, the shift from a mild cold front to a more robust storm has been swift and impactful, according to meteorologist Brayden Murdock from the National Weather Service office in San Francisco.
The central coast of California is on high alert for significant flooding, with forecasts predicting up to 5 inches of rain in many areas. More isolated regions, such as the Santa Lucia and Santa Ynez mountain ranges, could see staggering rain totals of up to 10 inches as the storm progresses towards greater Los Angeles. The possibility of thunderstorms in valleys near the state capital might bring about brief tornadoes, small hail, heavy rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds, as per warnings from the weather service office in Sacramento.
In comparison to the recent atmospheric river that wreaked havoc in Southern California, this new storm is expected to pass through the region relatively swiftly. Nevertheless, it poses its own set of challenges, including flash flooding and potential power outages. Flood watches and warnings have been issued in coastal and mountainous areas throughout the state. While rainfall is anticipated across the board, mountainous regions might witness several feet of snow at elevations above 6,800 feet in the Sierra Nevada, as highlighted by the weather service.
Travelers are advised to exercise caution, especially in the Sierra Nevada region, with the weather service office in Reno, Nevada, suggesting completing travel during the daytime on Sunday or rescheduling for a later date. An avalanche watch has been issued for the greater Lake Tahoe area and the eastern Sierra in Inyo and Mono counties. In response to the looming weather threats, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services has activated its operations center and mobilized personnel and equipment to high-risk areas.
As Californians navigate through this turbulent weather spell, it is crucial to stay informed, prepared, and heed the advice of local authorities and meteorological experts. With the potential for severe weather conditions, it is imperative to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions to mitigate risks associated with the ongoing storm system. Stay safe, stay alert, and weather the storm with resilience and caution.
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