MENDOCINO CO., 11/20/24 – The first major storm of the season arrived in Mendocino County late Tuesday night. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the storm will deliver up to 10 inches of rain, with higher elevations getting the brunt of the precipitation while lower elevations will see flooding.
Weather updates
First, the good news: a wind advisory that was in place for the county expired at 8 a.m.
A flood watch remains in effect for the entire county, said NWS. Today, three to five inches of additional rain is expected, with three to seven more inches on Thursday.
According to NWS, as of 11 a.m., areas along Mountain View Road east of Manchester are reporting 3.45 inches of rain. In Anderson Valley, Philo is reporting 3.31 inches, followed by Boonville at 2.92 inches. Ukiah is reporting 1.71 inches at the airport, followed by 1.72 inches in Potter Valley and 1.66 inches in Redwood Valley.
Further north, Black Mountain is clocking in at 3.23 inches, followed by Laytonville with 2.41 inches and Covelo at 1.14 inches.
The Coast has seen the lowest rain totals, with Mendocino reporting 0.82 inches.
The Russian River in Hopland is slowly creeping up to its banks. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts it will hit flood stage at 15.10 ft. by noon on Friday. Given the likelihood of flooding, prepare to adapt travel plans along State Route 175 if you’re heading to or from Lake County. The road may close.
Power outages
The first major power outage of the storm struck Fort Bragg and Westport at 9:23 a.m., impacting over 1,400 customers. Power was restored around 11 a.m.
Road conditions
“There will be an increased risk of rock and landslides along roadways. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Low-water crossings may be flooded. Storm drains and ditches may become clogged with debris. Extensive street flooding and flooding of creeks and rivers are possible. Area creeks and streams are running high and could flood with more heavy rain.” National Weather Service Eureka morning report
No major traffic incidents have been reported by the California Highway Patrol, but more rain will bring deteriorating conditions. This morning, local eyewitnesses are reporting minor flooding along roadways in Willits and downed trees on State Route 162. The evening’s commute will likely be dotted with traffic collisions, rock and mudslides, downed trees and roadway flooding.
“Avoid travel if you can. If you must travel, slow down,” said the National Weather Service, “Poor weather conditions will persist through later in the week so check the forecast for windows for safer travel.”
Closures
The Bureau of Land Management closed South Cow Mountain OHV due to heavy rain and poor road and trail conditions. For more information, call (707) 468-4000.
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