California – Wet pavement glows under streetlights before sunrise, and shallow water creeps along gutters and field edges across the southern San Joaquin Valley. Another round of steady rain keeps a Weather Alert firmly in place, raising concerns for post-Christmas travel and low-lying communities.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, a Flood Watch remains in effect through Friday afternoon for much of central California, including Kings, Fresno, Tulare, Kern, and surrounding counties. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall remains possible, especially where soils are saturated and waterways are already running high. Creeks, streams, and rivers could rise quickly with continued rain.
In Hanford, rain continues at times today, with temperatures holding in the mid-50s. Travel impacts may increase during heavier rain, particularly along Highway 198, Highway 99, and rural roads near canals and drainage ditches. Low-water crossings may flood, and storm drains could clog with debris. Drivers should plan extra time and avoid driving through standing water.
Rain chances stay elevated into Friday, keeping conditions damp and visibility reduced at times. To be fair, rainfall may briefly ease, but showers redevelop quickly as moisture continues to feed into the region. Flooding remains possible in poor drainage and agricultural areas.
Looking ahead, rain tapers Friday night, and skies begin to brighten Saturday. Cooler air settles in for the weekend, with highs near 50 and overnight lows dropping into the upper 30s. Sunday looks partly sunny and calmer, offering a safer window for weekend and return travel.
Early next week stays quiet and cool, though forecasters continue tracking additional Pacific systems that could bring renewed rain chances later in the week. For now, residents should monitor local conditions, secure flood-prone property, and remain alert while the Flood Watch remains in effect through Friday afternoon.
