Eureka, CA – The Northern California coastline roars this morning as a powerful atmospheric river barrels into the Humboldt region, bringing howling winds, pounding surf, and relentless rain. Streetlights flicker in gusts topping 50 mph, and salt spray mixes with steady rainfall across the waterfront.
The National Weather Service in Eureka has issued multiple active warnings — a High Wind Warning, Coastal Flood Watch, and Flood Watch — through early Wednesday. South winds could gust up to 60 mph along the coast, while ridgelines may see higher bursts near 70 mph. Residents are urged to secure outdoor objects and avoid travel near large trees as branches and power lines may fall.
Heavy rainfall will continue today and tonight, with two to four inches expected in coastal zones and higher totals in the interior hills. Urban flooding and mudslides are possible, especially near burn scars and steep terrain. Rising tides could also trigger minor coastal flooding during high tide cycles, particularly around King Salmon and the Arcata Bottoms.
Conditions begin to ease Thursday, though lingering showers may persist into Friday. By the weekend, calmer, cooler air takes hold, offering a brief respite before more storms line up offshore.
To be fair, November along the North Coast rarely pulls its punches. For now, residents should stay weather-aware, keep flashlights ready, and avoid flooded roads and coastal areas until winds settle and tides recede.
