Northern California Flood Watch Issued as Heavy Rain and Landslide Threats Build
EUREKA, CALIFORNIA — A Flood Watch is now in effect for much of Northern California as a powerful Atmospheric River system pushes into the region, bringing the threat of flooding, rockslides, and landslides through Wednesday morning, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Eureka.
The alert covers Del Norte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Trinity, and Lake counties, where moderate to heavy rain is expected to fall continuously for more than a day and a half. Forecasters warn that the storm could produce 36 hours of rainfall, impacting both coastal areas and mountainous regions above 2,000 feet.
Flooding and Landslide Risk Across Key Highways
Meteorologists cautioned that rivers, creeks, and low-lying areas are most at risk of flooding, while steep terrain and major highways could see rockslides or debris flows.
“Rainfall totals will add up quickly across northwest California,” the NWS said in a statement. “Residents in flood-prone or slide-prone zones should prepare now and stay alert to emergency updates.”
Particularly vulnerable routes include U.S. Highway 101, Highway 299, and Highway 20, where previous Atmospheric River events have led to mudslides and temporary closures. Motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall and to never drive through flooded roads.
Atmospheric River Brings Classic November Pattern
The ongoing storm is part of a broader Pacific Atmospheric River, a phenomenon where narrow bands of moisture-laden air stream across the ocean and release intense rainfall over the West Coast.
“These systems are typical for November but can still pack a punch, especially after dry periods when soils are less stable,” explained NWS meteorologists in Eureka.
Localized rainfall amounts may vary, but forecasters expect coastal and interior valleys to receive 2–4 inches, with higher elevations seeing as much as 6 inches or more by Wednesday morning.
Urban and River Flooding Threatens Low-Lying Areas
Urban flooding is also possible in Eureka, Arcata, Ukiah, Fort Bragg, and nearby towns where storm drains may become overwhelmed. Smaller creeks and streams could spill over, while runoff from saturated hillsides increases the potential for landslides and slope failures.
Residents living near riverbanks or steep slopes are urged to keep emergency kits ready and review evacuation routes in case conditions deteriorate overnight.
Outlook: Rain Easing by Wednesday Afternoon
Forecasters say the heaviest rainfall should taper off by Wednesday afternoon, but residual flooding could continue through midweek as smaller waterways handle the runoff.
“Even after the rain ends, the ground will remain saturated,” the NWS noted. “We could see lingering impacts through Thursday.”
Officials encourage residents to monitor NWS Eureka alerts, check Caltrans updates before traveling, and avoid camping or parking near creeks and hillsides until the weather stabilizes.
For ongoing storm coverage and regional safety updates, stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.