Two dead in the aftermath of atmospheric rivers sweeping through California
At least two people have been reported dead in Sonoma County, California after heavy rains produced by atmospheric rivers affecting the region since January 31, 2025.
Local authorities at Hall Road, Sonoma County where a body was found on February 6, 2025. Image credit: Sonoma County Fire District
The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office confirmed two storm-related deaths within 24 hours on Thursday, February 6. The fatalities were attributed to severe weather conditions caused by atmospheric rivers affecting California.
The first fatality was reported on Wednesday, February 5, at approximately 16:41 local time (LT). Deputies and fire department personnel responded to a location on Franz Valley Road in Santa Rosa, where they found a deceased individual in a culvert. Fire personnel recovered the body at the scene.
The second fatality was reported at approximately 07:00 LT on Thursday when a body was recovered from a location on Hall Road in Santa Rosa.
The sheriff’s office stated that the identities of both victims would not be released until their next of kin had been notified.
The severe weather caused by stalling atmospheric rivers over California has caused significant damage across the state, bringing record rainfall to San Francisco and other regions. Previously, the storm hospitalized one person after they were struck by a falling tree, according to the San Francisco Fire Department.
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I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.
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