Hanford, CA – A powerful atmospheric river continues to push across California, delivering heavy rain from the Bay Area to the southern part of the state through late Saturday and early Sunday. The system is already producing significant precipitation across Central California, with the heaviest bands expected to move into Southern California on Friday and continue into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service Hanford office and the Weather Prediction Center, rainfall totals could exceed several inches in some areas, with isolated pockets surpassing 8 inches along windward slopes and higher terrain. The combination of intense rainfall rates and saturated ground increases the risk of flash flooding, particularly near burn scars and steep terrain where runoff accelerates quickly.
Flash flood potential maps issued Thursday show a “Slight Risk” zone extending across portions of Central and Southern California, indicating the possibility of scattered flash flooding. A broader “Marginal Risk” area covers a wider stretch of the West Coast, where isolated flooding issues may develop.
Residents are urged to monitor local alerts, especially those living near recent wildfire burn areas, in canyons, or along creeks and streams. Roadway ponding, rapidly rising water, and debris flows are all possible during periods of heaviest rain.
The atmospheric river is expected to weaken by Sunday morning, though lingering showers may continue across parts of the state. Travel impacts, including delays and hazardous driving, remain likely through the duration of the event.
