First storm hit California: More rain, Sierra snow expected through weekend

Debris is washing ashore and more than 100K are still without power across California. This atmospheric river event is wrapping up but the West Coast is getting ready for another three rounds through the weekend

More heavy rain, snow, and gusty winds are expected as these storms move ashore. Although many issues are coming with the current precipitation and winds, the moisture is very much needed across the West. In fact, just in the last week, thanks to a previous atmospheric river event, heavy rainfall in California has helped improve drought conditions.

For the first time since May 2022, California no longer has exceptional drought conditions anywhere in the state. With more rain on the way, additional improvements are expected.

A state of emergency was placed in effect by Governor Newsom of California. In San Francisco, authorities continue to hand out sandbags. Heavy rains have moved in and out of the area and they will continue to be on and off through the afternoon. Urban Forestry crews continue to work tirelessly picking up any down trees in the area as well as clearing obstructed drains to help alleviate any flooding issues. The flood warning will continue to be in effect, at least until 4 p.m. PT.

Seas are also very dangerous. A high surf advisory is in effect for at least until 3 a.m. Friday. Please stay away from the coast and off the waters. Waves could be as high as 22 feet and crash onto the coast, which will contribute to coastal flooding. There are numerous roads near the coast that remain closed. Coastal homes and businesses will be flooded.

High advisories are in effect for Southern California for at least through noon on Thursday. South gusts up to 35 mph are possible. Across the inland Empire, including the mountainous areas, gusts could reach as much as 65 mph. Stronger winds are expected to last a bit longer for parts of central and northern California. For the Sacramento area, gusts could reach 50 mph, and there is a wind advisory in effect at least through 1 p.m. PT, and northern California could experience damaging winds which may blow down trees and power lines. Gusts could reach 45 mph.

The Pineapple Express has arrived! Heavy precipitation started overnight and is set to continue throughout the day on Thursday, tapering off by the evening for most. Flash flooding, landslides, and strong winds will be the threats.

The atmospheric river has entered the West, specifically this Pineapple Express, arrived along the northern California coast and heavy rains (and even some thunderstorms) have been affecting the California coast since the wee hours of the day.

In total we are forecasting about two to four inches of rain with this first storm that will pass on Thursday —Yes, there is another system arriving on Saturday. Some areas, especially mountains along the coast could receive up to 10 inches of rain and hills could get up to 6 inches of rain. This rain falling through many mountains burn scars will create serious flooding problems for some downstream. The ground in some areas is already weak from the rains earlier this week, so flash flooding could easily form.

The snow will also become an issue along the Sierra. Several feet are possible in areas above 7,000 feet. There will be some areas that will become impassable, so make sure to stay put or go to a safe place lower in elevation. Lake Tahoe and the rest of the Sierras will get other rounds of heavy snow and strong winds from Saturday through Tuesday adding more feet of snow to the amounts that will fall on Thursday.

There will be a break from the showers, storms, and snow on Friday across central and southern California, while the north through the Pacific Northwest will continue with heavy precipitation. Another system arrives on Saturday, wetting the roads again across the Bay Area to areas just north of Los Angeles. Southern California will experience cloudy skies and a few sprinkles for the rest of Saturday afternoon. There will be a break on Saturday evening while light showers and mostly cloudy skies return on Sunday, especially in areas north of San Diego.