Storm clouds over Mariposa County
Sierra Sun Times file photo


Updated at 3:06 P.M Flood Watch begins at 4:00 P.M.


February 6, 2017 - The National Weather Service Hanford Office has issued A Flood Watch for West Central San Joaquin Valley-East Central San Joaquin Valley- Mariposa, Madera, and Fresno County Foothills- Sierra Nevada from Yosemite to Kings Canyon- including the Cities of Los Banos, Coalinga, Mendota, Fresno, Coarsegold, Oakhurst, Squaw Valley, Auberry, North Fork, Mariposa, Devils Postpile, Florence Lake, Lake Thomas Edison, Tuolumne Meadows, Bass Lake, Fish Camp, and Wawona.

The Flood Watch is in effect from this evening through late Tuesday night.



Flood Watch for a portion of Central California, including the following areas, Central San Joaquin Valley, Mariposa, Madera, and Fresno County Foothills, Sierra Nevada from Yosemite to Kings Canyon.

Continued periods of moderate to heavy rain are expected over the San Joaquin Valley and Foothills this evening through late Tuesday night...Mainly from Fresno County northward. The heavy rain will also impact the adjacent Sierra slopes below the snow level.

Rainfall accumulations over 1 inch are possible in the affected portions of the San Joaquin Valley...With over 3 inches possible in the higher terrain.

Snow levels are expected to rise during the period resulting in additional runoff from melting snow.

Runoff from the rain and melting snow will cause renewed rises in rivers and streams.

Mudslides and Rockslides can lead to road closures.

Travel could be very difficult. Some roads may be flooded or impassable. Avoid driving through unknown depths of water... turn around...do not drown.

Precautionary/Preparedness Actions...
A Flood Watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts. You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.
Source: NWS