December 12: Storm in California hailed as the biggest in last 5 years
A power filled storm bringing heavy rain accompanied by strong winds, and snow in the higher reaches is moving across California. The storm, causing severe flooding and widespread power outages, is being hailed as the biggest storm in northern California in last 5 years. Three to five inches of snow is expected in the region.
Higher elevations recorded some very strong winds gusting up to 147 mph at Mount Lincoln near Truckee and 112 mph in Slide Mountain near Reno, Neveda.
December 11: California braces up for a massive storm
Residents are California are now gearing up for one of the strongest storms in terms of rain and wind since 2009. The drought plagued region is in much need of some relief. But, this storm is expected to bring much more than that. The state is expected to experience debris flow, damaging winds, flooding, mountain snow and much more.
An atmospheric river "Pineapple Express" is fueling the system thereby bringing a steady stream of moisture directly from Hawaii to the West Coast. Pineapple Express as a phenomenon can be described as a long, narrow crest which directs moisture from the tropics into the western United States.
The California folks are making preparations to fight against the potentially-disastrous side effects. Most of the schools are closing and crews are making all the efforts to keep roadways safe. Hundreds of people are stockpiling sandbags, also, North Highlands fire station in Sacramento has provided sandbags for families. On Tuesday, ten sandbagging stations were opened by county officials of Sacramento followed by other two on Wednesday afternoon.
On Wednesday afternoon, Southern California saw dark clouds move. In anticipation of mud flow, a pair of main roads were closed around a state recreation area in mountains north of Santa Clarita by county officials of Los Angeles. Due to higher risk of heavy rain and high winds, San Francisco also closed the Great Highway, which is a road that runs next to the Pacific Ocean.
The weather service have warned that travelling in northern Sierra is going to be "extremely dangerous" due to the blizzard conditions. Even if they plan to travel, it is important to have a winter survival kit with them. Also, if a person gets stranded, he/she should stay with their vehicle. People have also been advised to take down their holiday lights, especially the inflatable decorations that have not been properly anchored.
To ensure no fallen branch or tree related damage takes place, residents are getting dangerous trees removed by tree removal companies. Massive waves of up to 25 feet up to the coast line are expected in Southern California. All beach goers have been warned to stay away from the water.
