The West Coast is bracing for relentless storms this Christmas week, as atmospheric rivers continue to dump heavy rain and strong winds over the region. With Flood Watches in effect for parts of Northern California, Washington, and Oregon, the weather is shaping up to be a major disruptor for the holiday season.
Ongoing Flood Warnings and Storm Activity
The current storm system, which has already passed through the Northwest, is still bringing rain to Washington and Northern California. The situation is expected to worsen over the weekend, with another Flood Watch in effect for parts of western Washington and western Oregon until Saturday afternoon.
Heavy rainfall over the past few days has already saturated the ground and elevated stream levels, reducing the threshold for additional flooding in the coming days.
Storm Focus Shifts to Northern California
The next atmospheric river will primarily impact Northern California, starting on Saturday and continuing through Sunday. Cities like Redding and Sacramento are under Flood Watch, with some areas possibly receiving up to 4 to 6 inches of rain.
While the extreme Pacific Northwest won’t see as much rain, the region will still receive 1 to 2 inches, and mountain areas like the Cascades are expected to see heavy snow with depths accumulating to several feet.
Christmas Eve Storm Targets Southern California
Another storm is set to hit the West Coast on Christmas Eve, with Southern California being the hardest hit. Los Angeles and San Diego are expected to receive over 4 inches of rain, accompanied by gusty winds. Sierra Nevada mountains are forecasted to get 2 to 4 feet of snow, making mountain passes potentially impassable.
Northeast Faces Calm After Wind and Rain Chaos
While the Northeast endured rain and wind on Friday, affecting holiday travel, conditions have since calmed. Winds that reached 60 mph have eased, improving travel conditions as temperatures drop.
The rest of the country, however, is experiencing mild temperatures, with record highs expected in many cities across the central U.S., including St. Louis, Kansas City, and Albuquerque. These temperatures are well above average, providing a stark contrast to the stormy conditions out West.
Looking Ahead to the Holiday WeekAs the storm system continues its march across the U.S., the West Coast will remain a major hotspot for inclement weather, while the rest of the country enjoys relatively calm and warm conditions. Travelers and residents across the West should prepare for significant disruptions due to rain, snow, and winds.
