Powerful, slow-moving storm brings snow and record rain to California
A powerful, slow-moving storm continues affecting parts of California on Monday, April 6, 2020, with significant mountain snow, heavy rain, and gusty winds. Up to 127 mm (5 inches) of rain fell in Santa Barbara County, causing localized flooding. A record rainfall of 28.4 mm (1.12 inches) was recorded in the Santa Barbara City, while Monterey saw 30.7 mm (1.21 inches) — which above its average monthly rainfall. Showers and thunderstorms are also forecast for the Midwest in the following days.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), an exceptionally deep upper-level low is predicted to linger near Southern California during the first half of the week, with the worst impacts to be felt on Monday.
Almost 60 cm (2 feet) of snow has fallen in the Sierra Nevada, with more expected through the week. Heavy snow continues to impact the San Gabriel and San Bernardo ranges as well.
"In addition, heavy rain is falling along the coastal range and in the valleys. The risk for flooding and flash flooding in some areas, particularly over burn scars, and runoff is possible in urbanized areas as well," said NSW.
This #MondayMorning, take a look at these beautiful clouds that #GOESWest captured swirling off the coast of northern #California yesterday. This #StormSystem will keep bringing #rain and #snow to the area through Wednesday.
Explore: https://t.co/nIJnxZLaIq pic.twitter.com/vSuGY274xV— NOAA Satellites (@NOAASatellites) April 6, 2020
Moderate to heavy rain impacting #LosAngeles County right now. RSeveral areas seeing 0.50 to 0.75 inches per hour, which can crate roadway and small creek flooding. Be prepared for sudden slow downs on the roads. #CAwx #larain pic.twitter.com/6KJxmVvDoP
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) April 6, 2020
Very heavy rain just fell in the #Pacoima #Sylmar #SanFernando The heavy rainfall has shifted south of the area, but expect plenty of roadway and canyon flooding in the area. Flood Advisory in effect. #cawx #larain pic.twitter.com/m041BIU31D
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) April 6, 2020
Winter Storm on tap for #SoCal today thru Tue.
Widespread rain totals 1-3" with local 4+" totals.
WINTER STORM WARNING for #Ventura & #LosAngeles mountains. #cawx #larain pic.twitter.com/JwTXrGSGqc
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) April 5, 2020
The weather bureau warned of a slight risk of excessive rainfall for parts of Southern California Monday afternoon, as the heaviest downpour pushes south towards San Diego.
The Great Basin/Intermountain West may also see precipitation as the frontal system gradually advances inland into Tuesday, April 7, with the Wind River Mountains also forecast to pick up some snow during the same period.
Windy conditions and colder temperatures are forecast for California, into portions of the Southwest.
Severe weather is also expected to hit the Midwest over the next couple of days. Areas from the Southern Plains and Midwest to the Eastern Seaboard may see scattered showers and thunderstorms.
By Wednesday, the severe weather threat will shift to the Midsouth and continue to the Mid-Atlantic.
Over the weekend, the storm dumped up to 127 mm (5 inches) of rain in Santa Barbara County, causing localized flooding. On Sunday, April 5, the city of Santa Barbara smashed its daily record rainfall with 30.7 mm (1.21 inches).
The San Francisco Bay area recorded 132 mm (5.2 inches) of rain over the weekend, with Monterey receiving 30.7 mm (1.21 inches) which is more than its average monthly rain.
Flood advisories are in place for Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles counties.
A pair of storm systems are expected to bring heavy rain and mountain snow in California. Snow in the mountains is crucial for the state's water needs.https://t.co/xwLXLPt78D pic.twitter.com/SYRYRoCaRF
— AccuWeather (@accuweather) April 4, 2020
WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT
Here is our latest thinking on snow totals. Please be prepared for slick roads, travel delays and whiteout conditions. Keep up to date on the latest weather conditions on social media and online at https://t.co/GJwzeMsQ3Z! #cawx pic.twitter.com/TUjXcDKZjR
— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) April 6, 2020
Here are the updated rain totals for our April storm. A band of heavy rain will continue to impact areas from north to south today through tonight. Localized flooding is possible, so please remember…"Turn Around, Don't Drown!" #cawx #aprilshowers pic.twitter.com/ds0u9npJrb
— NWS San Diego (@NWSSanDiego) April 6, 2020
Radar Loop as of 330 AM.
Flood Advisories in effect for #SantaBarbara, #Ventura and #LosAngeles counties.
Rainfall rates 025"-0.50"/hour will cause urban flooding and potentially minor mud/debris flows near burn areas. #cawx #larain pic.twitter.com/tMZrElm7jx
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) April 6, 2020
Featured image credit: NOAA/GOES-West, RAMMB/CIRA. Acquired April 6, 2020, at 16:00 UTC.
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