Recent severe holiday flooding in California has resulted in at least one fatality. This event has stirred concern across the state as emergency responses increase amid worsening weather conditions.
Fatality Confirmed in Redding, California
Redding Mayor Mike Littau confirmed the death in a Facebook post. Local police and fire officials are actively conducting water rescues in affected areas. Further details regarding the rescues have not yet been released.
Emergency Operations and Response Efforts
In response to the flooding, the Redding Fire Chief and staff are establishing an Emergency Operations Center. This center will coordinate the city’s response to the severe weather. Public Works and Redding Electric Utility personnel are working diligently to clear roads and restore power.
Widespread Flood Watches in Effect
As of Monday morning, flood watches are impacting approximately 41 million residents throughout California. These warnings extend from the northern regions of the state all the way to the border with Mexico. Key cities facing potential flooding include:
- San Francisco
- Los Angeles
- San Diego
Atmospheric River and Its Impact
A strengthened atmospheric river is responsible for the ongoing rainfall and is projected to affect Southern California later this week. Flood watches for major cities are scheduled as follows:
| City | Watch Timing |
|---|---|
| San Francisco | Monday morning to late Thursday |
| Los Angeles | Tuesday afternoon to late Wednesday |
| San Diego | Wednesday morning to Thursday |
Forecast of Rain and Snow
On Monday, areas in north-central California, including the northern Sierra, could see 2 to 4 inches of rain. Higher elevations may experience significant snowfall and strong winds, leading to hazardous travel conditions.
The torrential rain is expected to affect the northern California coastline on Tuesday. It will later spread to southern regions, with potential for dangerous travel conditions by Christmas Eve. The heaviest rainfall is anticipated from Santa Barbara to Oceanside.
