California Braces for Another Atmospheric River, Flood Watches in Effect for 15 Million Residents

Two fatalities have been reported in California as a result of a powerful atmospheric river that brought heavy rainfall, mudslides, gusty winds, and significant snowfall to the state. The storm caused power outages for thousands of residents, with around 50,000 people experiencing several blackouts at the peak of the storm. The state is currently under a Flash Flood Watch as another atmospheric river is expected to hit the area.

On Friday, a State of Emergency was declared in at least 34 counties in California as the towns of Springville and Porterville were hit by a dire Flash Flood Emergency. Spotters reported up to 3 inches of rain due to the rapid snow melt.

Caltrans crews continue to respond today to areas of instability on Highway 1 caused by recent rains. These images were taken today from Mill Creek at post mile 18 in Monterey County. #Hwy1 #BigSur #MontereyCounty pic.twitter.com/ej67aKTi3P

— Caltrans District 5 (@CaltransD5) March 11, 2023

In Monterey County, a Flash Flood Warning was issued for Pajaro on Saturday morning along the Pajaro River, after heavy rainfall caused a levee to fail and heavily flood the community which quickly led to evacuations. The National Guard and first responders are assisting with evacuations, with some individuals having to go through floodwaters in order to reach safety.

A drone video recorded the flooding of several homes located in Tulare County, causing evacuations. Brandon Clement, a storm tracker for Live Storms Media, captured footage of floodwaters engulfing several homes, and even tearing one house from its foundation.

Mandatory Evacuation orders issued for the Community of #Pajaro due to a #LeveeBreak. Please heed evac warnings/orders. Pajaro River levee broke early this morning resulting in active flooding. #Evacuate if told. #TurnAroundDontDrown @Cal_OES @CaltransHQ @CAgovernor pic.twitter.com/tDttiTcaC0

— California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (@Cal_OES) March 11, 2023

Flash flooding prompted authorities to issue evacuation orders for certain areas of Kern County this weekend, including the city of Bakersfield in the state’s Central Valley region.

On Friday, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park shared a video that depicted the flooded fields reaching the roads in Three Rivers, California.

Furthermore, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office ordered several evacuations for Three Rivers, advising residents to stay away from flooded roads.

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