The atmospheric river of moist tropical air being funneled into northern California continues to dump very large amounts of precipitation in areas suffering from five years of drought.
The rain began Wednesday, January 4 and is predicted to continue at least into Wednesday of this week. Some areas have received between 5 and 9 inches of precipitation since Friday.
The National Weather Service office in Reno, Nevada reported that multiple wind sensors recorded gusts Sunday morning that exceeded 170 mph.
Some areas in the Sierra Nevada mountains could see another 3 to 7 inches of precipitation between Monday and Wednesday. Flooding is being reported in many areas.
National Park Service officials evacuated the valley in Yosemite National Park Friday except for essential personnel.
The Merced River is rising quickly. We’re doing everything from readying boats to removing items that may float away. #CAStorm #CAFlood pic.twitter.com/diGhbuSj25
— Yosemite National Pk (@YosemiteNPS) January 8, 2017
The Merced River is nearing 10 feet (flood stage). It’s forecast to reach 11.8 ft at 10 pm. More photos/videos soon! #CAStorm #CAFlood pic.twitter.com/y57n3juljZ
— Yosemite National Pk (@YosemiteNPS) January 8, 2017
This picture shows #HalfDomeVillage in @YosemiteNPS flooding up to the campsites. Photo courtesy of The Jared O’Brien #CAstorm pic.twitter.com/2X6usA6NrO
— Veronica Miracle (@VeronicaABC30) January 8, 2017
Flood stage has been reached at #Yosemite. The Merced River is forecast to continue to rise the next few hours #cawx #CAStorm #CAFlood https://t.co/zz0FxJGk8o
— NWS Sacramento (@NWSSacramento) January 9, 2017
