The strongest <a href="https://www.archyde.com/california-is-due-for-a-megaflood-that-could-drop-100-inches-of-rain/" title="California is due for a 'megaflood' that could drop 100 inches of rain”>atmospheric river in several months is poised to unleash a deluge of rain and snow across the northern regions of California this week, accompanied by fierce winds and the potential for significant flooding, according to meteorological experts. This storm system, impacting the area midweek, is expected to migrate southward as it progresses.
“This storm marks the beginning of the winter season’s major weather events,” remarked Dial Hoang, a National Weather Service meteorologist based in Monterey. The low-pressure system, swirling off the Pacific Northwest coast, is set to intensify dramatically beginning Tuesday, gaining strength sufficient to reach bomb cyclone status — a phenomenon that will substantially augment both its moisture content and overall intensity.
Beginning Tuesday, various northwest California locations will be under flood and high wind watches, as consistent rainfall is projected to inundate the area, with accumulations expected to range from 4 to 8 inches across several days. On ridgetops, wind gusts might reach as high as 75 mph.
A powerful storm system will bring heavy mountain snowfall, rain, and high winds to the Pacific Northwest and Northern California through midweek. Numerous flash floods, hazardous travel, power outages, and tree damage can be expected as the storm reaches max intensity on Wed. pic.twitter.com/iFrmuUZfj7
— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) November 18, 2024
The National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center cautioned of a formidable storm system poised to deliver heavy precipitation in the form of mountain snow, torrential rain, and high winds to the Pacific Northwest and Northern California through the middle of the week. The storm is anticipated to cause numerous flash floods, dangerous travel conditions, power outages, and potential tree damage as it reaches its peak intensity on Wednesday.
Following its initial burst of activity, this storm system is forecasted to linger into the weekend, unleashing a second wave of rainfall that is expected to sweep further south, enveloping much of the San Francisco Bay Area, extending down into the Central Coast and possibly reaching parts of Southern California.
The North Bay region is projected to receive between 3 to 7 inches of rain from Wednesday through Sunday, with some localized areas potentially seeing up to 11 inches, according to the National Weather Service’s forecast discussion. Officials remain cautiously optimistic that the region may only experience minor flooding, given that many areas have not recorded significant rainfall this season, suggesting that the soils are likely to absorb the substantial incoming precipitation.
However, some regions of the North Bay “will likely become saturated very quickly,” expressed Dalton Behringer, a National Weather Service meteorologist, in the daily forecast. “Even if we don’t see too many flooding impacts on Wednesday, I wouldn’t be surprised if flooding worsens by Friday with the second wave, despite the fact that less rain is expected then.”
While Southern California might welcome light rain by the weekend, it is projected to be inadequate in mitigating any wildfire threats lingering into the end of the year. “It’s not going to be what Northern California will be, but any bit helps,” noted Bryan Lewis, a National Weather Service meteorologist stationed in Oxnard. “It’s probably not enough to completely alleviate fire concerns just yet.”
A winter storm watch has been issued for the northern Sierra Nevada and various Northern California mountains exceeding 3,500 feet in elevation, where snowfall amounts of 4 to 15 inches are anticipated on Tuesday and Wednesday.
This impending storm marks the commencement of what seems to be a prolonged period of wet weather across California, with the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center forecasting above-average precipitation conditions persisting through at least Thanksgiving.
What precautions should residents take in anticipation of the upcoming storm system in Northern California?
**Interview with Dial Hoang, National Weather Service Meteorologist**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dial. Can you explain the significance of the upcoming storm system that’s set to impact Northern California this week?
**Dial Hoang**: Absolutely. This storm is significant because it’s the strongest atmospheric river we’ve seen in several months. It’s expected to bring heavy rain and snow, strong winds, and a high potential for flooding, which can affect both communities and infrastructure throughout the region.
**Editor**: You mentioned that this storm marks the beginning of major weather events for the winter season. What are the specific dangers of such a powerful storm system?
**Dial Hoang**: The dangers are quite substantial. Along with the heavy rainfall—accumulations of 4 to 8 inches—there will be intense wind gusts, possibly up to 75 mph in some ridgetop areas. This combination can lead to flash flooding, hazardous travel conditions, power outages, and even tree damage.
**Editor**: What advice do you have for residents in the affected areas as they prepare for this storm?
**Dial Hoang**: I strongly recommend that residents stay informed by monitoring local weather updates and heed any warnings or watches issued by the National Weather Service. It’s important to prepare for potential power outages by having a supply of essentials like food, water, and batteries. If you live in prone flooding areas, have a plan for evacuation if necessary.
**Editor**: Will the storm’s impact extend beyond the initial days of heavy rain and snow?
**Dial Hoang**: Yes, initially it will hit Northern California hard, but after that, we anticipate that the system will linger into the weekend and move south. Areas like the San Francisco Bay Area and Central Coast will start to see rain from it, and some locations could receive significant rainfall even after the storm’s peak.
**Editor**: Thank you for your insights, Dial. Is there anything else you’d like to share with our viewers?
**Dial Hoang**: Just a reminder to stay vigilant and prepared. Severe weather can change rapidly, so being proactive is key in ensuring safety for yourself and your loved ones.
**Editor**: Thank you again for your time today, Dial. We appreciate you keeping us updated on this important weather development.