Severe Storms Cause Flooding and Power Outages Across Northern California

Heavy Storms Affect Northern California

Heavy rains hit Northern California on Friday. The storm caused small landslides, flooded streets, and overflowed rivers, including in parts of San Francisco. Thousands in the Seattle area faced power outages after days without electricity.

The storm moved to Northern California after causing fatalities in the Pacific Northwest. In California, some roads closed due to flooding, and strong winds knocked down trees. Forecasters warned about flash flooding and rockslides, mainly north of San Francisco.

In Humboldt County, evacuation orders changed to warnings near the Eel River. Officials anticipated moderate flooding. Flooding also closed Highway 1 near the Garcia River in Mendocino County without a set reopening time. Santa Rosa experienced its wettest three-day period on record, receiving about 12.5 inches of rain.

A small mudslide threatened homes in Fitch Mountain near Healdsburg. Tennis Wick from Sonoma County expressed concern over the unstable earth. Residents were advised to stay vigilant.

Washington state continued to struggle with power outages affecting over 117,000 people, primarily in King County. Utility crews worked to restore power and clear debris. Senior centers provided food and charging stations for those without electricity.

Gale warnings were active in Washington, Oregon, and California, with winter storm warnings issued for parts of the Sierra Nevada and California Cascades. The National Weather Service recorded strong wind gusts at ski resorts, halting some operations.

The storm began as a “bomb cyclone,” producing powerful winds that caused tree falls and property damage. Residents in Crescent City faced terrifying moments as a large tree fell onto homes. Debra Campbell described the fear she felt as her home was hit.

In the Northeast, drought-stricken areas received much-needed rain. New York and New Jersey saw beneficial rainfall, easing fire dangers. Despite the mess, the precipitation was expected to help alleviate drought conditions in the region. Heavy snowfall in Pennsylvania led to school closures, power outages, and difficult travel conditions.