Fresno, CA – A widespread Flood Watch has been issued across central California beginning Thursday morning, with forecasters warning of heavy rainfall that could trigger flooding in foothill and mountain communities through Saturday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, the watch includes Mariposa, Madera, Fresno, Tulare, and Kern counties, covering areas from Yosemite Valley and Bass Lake to Tehachapi, Lake Isabella, and the Mojave Desert. The heaviest rain is expected from Thursday afternoon through Friday night, with runoff potentially flooding creeks, streams, and low-lying roads.
Forecasters said excessive rainfall may lead to rapid rises in rivers such as the San Joaquin and Kern, especially in burn scar areas or steep terrain. Motorists are urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways, and residents in flood-prone zones should prepare for potential evacuations if conditions worsen.
The Flood Watch remains in effect through Friday afternoon for northern areas, extending into Saturday evening across southern foothills and desert slopes.
Residents can check for updates and possible Flood Warnings at weather.gov/safety/flood.
