Millions in central and northern California are preparing for a dangerous storm on Thursday that may produce catastrophic flooding in places already recovering from the winter storm.
Almost 17 million people are under flood watches in California and parts of Nevada, with much of the Golden State, particularly in danger from extreme rainfall that may flood communities and some of the same places previously damaged by major floods earlier this year, according to CNN.
The Weather Prediction Center noted: "An atmospheric river will bring anomalous moisture to California Thursday and Friday. It also said that "numerous" floods are probable for millions of people due to the interaction of severe precipitation and fast snow melts below 5,000 feet.
Ahead of anticipated floods, some Californians are warned to gather 2 weeks' worth of supplies.
A MODERATE risk is in effect in our Day 1 Excessive Rainfall Outlook. More details: https://t.co/FQU5sbmsxo pic.twitter.com/vjtoha2SeG
— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) March 9, 2023
Expect Flash Floods in Coastal Areas, Mountains
The Sierra Nevada foothills' rivers and streams are the most susceptible to flooding from rain and snowmelt, according to the forecast center. In addition to making travel difficult, this will likely result in a deeper snowpack.
Entrances to the Sierra Nevada's Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks have been closed due to inclement weather. According to the National Park Service, heavy rain is expected at altitudes where there are up to 12 feet of snow on the ground.
The Santa Cruz Mountains and south to Monterey County may see significant river flooding, according to forecasters in the San Francisco Bay Area, NBC News reported.
Flash flooding is also "very likely" to occur in the Sierra, the coastal mountains and foothills, Sacramento, and along the whole coast from San Francisco to Santa Barbara, per Fox Weather.
California State officials are also warning citizens about the runoff, which may cause mudslides, flash floods on roads, and fast-moving draining rivers and canals.
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