Eureka, California – Residents across northwest California have about 24 hours to prepare before a prolonged round of moderate to heavy rain begins Monday evening, raising the risk of flooded roadways and landslides through Tuesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, a Flood Watch remains in effect from Monday evening through Tuesday evening for Del Norte, Humboldt, Trinity, Mendocino and Lake counties. Forecasters expect a long-duration rain event that could produce excessive runoff, pushing rivers, creeks and streams toward bankfull while saturating hillsides vulnerable to failure.
Along the North Coast, including Crescent City and Eureka, periods of steady rain may overwhelm storm drains and flood low-lying intersections. U.S. Highway 101 through Humboldt and Del Norte counties could see ponding water and debris flows near steep terrain. In Trinity and interior Mendocino counties, saturated soils increase the chance of rock and landslides along Highway 299 and Highway 36.
Farther south, parts of Lake County and the Mendocino Coast could experience rapid rises on small streams by Tuesday morning, especially in flood-prone valleys and near burn scars.
Residents in low-lying areas should clear drainage systems, avoid parking near creeks and be ready to move to higher ground if warnings are issued. Officials urge drivers to slow down on wet roads and watch for falling debris. The Flood Watch remains in effect through Tuesday evening, and additional advisories are possible as rainfall totals become clearer.
