Update: Storm Soaks The Mother Lode
The Flood Watch that has been issued for the Mother Lode, the Mariposa County foothills, the Yosemite National Park Valley floor, the lower Sierra Nevada of Mariposa County and the western slope of the Sierra Nevada below 4,500 feet, will remain in effect through this (Friday) evening.
Heavy rainfall amounts are associated with this storm. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible.
Periods of moderate to locally heavy rainfall are expected today.
Given recent very wet conditions, minor flooding impacts are expected with any runoff that occurs. Excessive runoff has resulted in some flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may still rise out of their banks. Flooding may still occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Low-water crossings may be flooded. There is still the potential for mud and rock slides in the foothills and mountains.
Debris flows over recent burn scars are not expected, but do expect increased muddy runoff.
You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.
Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the western slope of the northern Sierra Nevada and Yosemite National Park, above the Valley floor, through 10 PM tonight (Friday).
The snow levels today will range from 4,000 to 6,000 feet. Heavy snow is forecast above 4,500 feet. Additional snow accumulations above the 6,000 foot elevation, will range from half-a-foot to a foot. The higher you go, the more the snow.
The heaviest snowfall is expected this morning, with snow rates of up to an inch per hour at times. Snow intensity is expected to gradually decrease through the afternoon and evening.
Winds will continue to gust as high as fifty-five to sixty mph. Strong winds could cause tree damage and bring down tree branches.
Travel could be very difficult to impossible. You may encounter very difficult travel conditions with chain controls and potential road closures.
If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.
The overall hazardous conditions could impact this morning and evening commutes.
