Eureka, CA – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Eureka has issued a Flood Watch for several Northern California counties as a powerful Atmospheric River system moves into the region, bringing heavy rain, flooding risks, and potential landslides through Wednesday morning.
The Weather System and Flood Watch Details
The Flood Watch remains in effect for Del Norte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Trinity, and Lake counties, where forecasters expect 36 hours of moderate to heavy rainfall beginning early Tuesday morning. Meteorologists warn that the heaviest precipitation will impact coastal and interior valleys as well as mountainous regions above 2,000 feet.
“This is a strong and prolonged storm system capable of producing hazardous flooding and slope instability,” the NWS warned in its latest advisory.
The system, fueled by Pacific moisture, is expected to drop 2 to 5 inches of rain in most areas, with localized totals up to 8 inches in mountain ranges. Officials caution that this level of rainfall may lead to rapid rises in creeks, rivers, and urban drainage systems.
Flooding and Landslide Concerns
Meteorologists say the combination of saturated soils and persistent downpours will increase the risk of flash flooding, rockslides, and landslides across steep terrain.
Particularly vulnerable routes include:
- U.S. Highway 101 through Humboldt and Mendocino Counties
- Highway 299 near Weaverville and Willow Creek
- Highway 20 connecting Lake and Mendocino Counties
Low-lying urban areas and poorly drained neighborhoods could also see street flooding during the storm’s peak.
The NWS advises residents to avoid driving through flooded roads and to remain aware of changing weather alerts throughout the event.
“Turn around, don’t drown,” officials emphasized, reminding drivers that even six inches of moving water can sweep vehicles away.
Preparedness and Safety Recommendations
Residents in flood-prone or landslide-risk areas are urged to review evacuation plans, keep emergency supplies ready, and prepare to leave quickly if conditions worsen.
Authorities recommend:
- Clearing storm drains and gutters ahead of the rain.
- Moving vehicles and valuables to higher ground.
- Monitoring NOAA Weather Radio or local alerts for Flood Warnings.
- Avoiding outdoor activities near rivers, creeks, or steep slopes during heavy rainfall.
Officials also noted that mudslides and debris flows could occur in areas previously affected by wildfires, where the ground remains unstable.
Forecast Outlook Through Midweek
Forecasters expect rain intensity to gradually diminish by Wednesday afternoon, though lingering runoff could continue to cause elevated water levels in small streams and creeks into midweek.
Once the system moves east, a brief dry window is expected late Wednesday before another round of showers returns later in the week. Temperatures across Northern California will remain mild, with highs in the upper 50s to mid-60s and overnight lows in the 40s.
Conclusion
The ongoing Atmospheric River event marks one of the most significant rainfall episodes of the early season for Northern California, with flood and landslide risks likely to persist through Wednesday morning. Authorities are urging residents to stay informed, remain cautious, and prioritize safety as the storm continues to impact the region.
What are your thoughts on this developing weather situation? Share your experiences or preparedness tips in the comments below.
