Potential dangers arise as intense downpours impact Northern California.
Starting Wednesday, Jan. 31, the Bay Area experienced a storm full of heavy rain and winds going up to 50 mph. The weather has caused large amounts of flooding as well as mudslides and multiple fallen trees due to unstable surfaces in the saturated soil. Additionally, cities have implemented road closures due to the flooding, like at San Bruno Ave. and Huntington Ave. in San Bruno.
So far, the storm is rated a Number 3 storm, according to the ABC7 Exclusive Storm Impact Scale, meaning that it is a strong storm with heavy rain at times, gusty winds, and flooding or wind damage that could result in power outages and road closures.
This storm is fueled by an atmospheric river stretching from the subtropics toward California.
While the storm’s impact and strength decreased on Thursday, it’s expected to pick back up again going into next week.
Strong winds are expected to last until at least Tuesday. It has a high potential to last longer and cause further damage.
According to officials, there is a probable risk of life-threatening floods and damaging landslides. Additionally, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a flood watch and wind advisories for the entire Bay Area.
On Sunday, strong winds are expected to escalate even more, with speeds up to 70 mph along the bay, and rain predicted to fall 2 to 4 inches. Due to these extreme factors, the storm’s potential impacts increase.
The heavy rain could result in severe flooding and landslides. On top of that, the powerful winds could cause significant damage to power lines or trees. The NWS set high wind warnings and advisories.
“Be prepared for power outages,” said the NWS Bay Area on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Further, the storms effects will be visible on the coastline, where waves are predicted to break 25 to 35 feet. Along with that, the Storm Prediction Center says there is also a possibility for a tornado to form.
“May want to skip going to the beach on Sunday,” says the NWS Bay Area on X on Saturday, Feb. 3.
Residents can sign up for San Mateo County Emergency Alerts to receive real-time alerts and messages about current conditions.
*This is a breaking news story. The article will be updated with more information.
