A series of powerful winter storms and atmospheric rivers are wreaking havoc across the West Coast as the region experiences significant weather warnings and disruptions. These storms, affecting California, Oregon, and Washington, are set to cause heavy rain, troublesome surf, and travel delays over the holiday season as individuals flock to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s.
According to the National Weather Service, stormy conditions are expected to grip the Pacific Northwest and extend southward, leading to back-to-back storm systems ramping up from mid-December through the New Year. The atmospheric river is particularly potent as it displaces large volumes of moisture, bringing with it substantial preparations for all residents who might be affected. Meteorologist Rich Otto stated, "If you live out there, there's lots of rain and, if you're high enough in the mountains, you'll see a decent amount of snowfall." He noted, "This could bring as much as 12 inches of additional precipitation" to areas already saturated.
On California’s coast, waves reaching up to 30 feet are projected to crash ashore, raising concerns about coastal safety and severe flooding risks. A high-surf advisory has been issued for the Bay Area, reminding swimmers and boaters to exercise extreme caution. Meteorologist Brayden Murdock elaborates on the dangers, explaining, "The last time we saw some swells like this was probably early January 2023. So it’s not terribly common to get this extreme—but this time of year, it’s not out of the question." Amid these turbulent seas, the Santa Cruz Wharf's outer portion collapsed, plunging three individuals who were quickly rescued from the swirling waters, highlighting the unexpected risks arising from these winter swells.
Moving inland, the storms have also led to significant disruptions on highways and urban infrastructure. Flooding reported on major roadways has compounded travel difficulties. Notably, Berkeley and Oakland experienced flooding, stranding motorists and causing traffic chaos before the holiday weekend. The National Weather Service reiterated travel warnings, cautioning against dangerous road conditions driven by high winds and rain saturations. A statement from the NWS office advised, "Travel could be difficult at times, with snow-packed roadways," especially on the Cascade Mountain passes where snow accumulations could reach up to 18 inches.
Rivers across the Willamette Valley are expected to rise dangerously high due to heavy rainfall, raising the alert for potential floods and mudslides. Urban areas are being urged to prepare as heavy rains bring the risk of localized flooding, particularly in low-lying sections, with weather authorities stating, “Heavy rainfall may also cause ponding of water or localized urban flooding, especially in areas with poor drainage.”
Southern California will not escape the storm’s grasp as meteorologists anticipate gusts hitting up to 60 miles per hour, raising wildfire risks. With the region's unusually dry winter, the National Weather Service cautioned residents about the increased wildfire risk amid continued high winds. Ariel Cohen, the meteorologist overseeing the National Weather Service office in Oxnard, indicated this elevated danger, forecasting, "The highest threat was expected to be next Monday through Thursday, when the drier air and somewhat warmer temperatures will bring a higher fire-weather risk." Important to note, this past month, the Franklin fire devastated more than 4,000 acres of Malibu, forcing evacuations and leading to destruction.
Forecasts for the Sacramento area also anticipate rain throughout the holidays, with weather specialists predicting quarter to half-inch accumulations, starting Thursday evening. NWS Sacramento’s Nathan Rick mentioned expectations of rain persisting throughout the weekend with possible breaks on Saturday before resuming. Specifically, he noted, “Rain will continue through Thursday night, mainly after 10 p.m., with low temperatures around 50 degrees.”
Looking forward, the long-range forecasts indicate rainfall continuing through Sunday, carrying over to traveler disruptions and plans for the New Year’s celebrations. Meteorologists are advising those planning to travel to prepare adequately, taking necessary precautions, and considering winter storm kits if travel is unavoidable. The NWS office echoed this advice, urging, "Persons should delay all travel if possible due to the conditions."
With weather warnings extending across the region and the potential for flooding, wind, and mudslides, the West Coast braces for another round of harsh winter storms looming over the foreseeable future. Alerts for hazardous conditions are projected to linger, making it imperative for residents and travelers alike to stay informed and prepared.
