Thunderstorms could bring flash floods to CA as cyclone nears. When to expect rain
As moisture from Tropical Cyclone Priscilla moves northward, thunderstorms could sweep across California.
Although the storm is weakening west of the Baja Peninsula, its moisture will spread across the state — including Sacramento, Modesto, Merced, Fresno and San Luis Obispo — bringing showers and thunderstorms, according to the National Weather Service.
“The greater flash flood threat will begin today across southeastern California, southwestern Arizona, southern Nevada, and southwestern Utah, shifting eastward on Friday,” the weather agency said in a news release on Thursday, Oct. 9.
Flood risks will continue through Sunday, Oct. 12, according to the release.
The weather system will increase the chances of rain across Northern California, the Central Coast and parts of the Central Valley starting next week.
Here’s when and where to expect rain:
Which parts of California will see rain?
Moisture from Tropical Cyclone Priscilla is expected to bring heavy rain, lightning and thunder to parts of California, according to the National Weather Service.
In Northern California and the Central Valley — including Sacramento, Modesto, Merced and Fresno — rain is expected to begin after 11 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 13.
Along the Central Coast, showers are forecast to start Monday night in San Luis Obispo, the agency said.
Am I at risk for flash floods?
According to the National Weather Service, flash floods can happen for several reasons, but they’re most often triggered by heavy rain from thunderstorms.
The agency said that flash floods can occur “so quickly that people are caught off-guard.”
How fast flooding happens depends on several factors, including where the rain falls, how intense it is, the shape of the land, soil type and how wet the ground already is.
The weather service said there is a higher risk for flash floods in Southern California, including the counties of San Bernardino, Riverside and Imperial.
Flood risks are expected from Friday, Oct. 10, through Sunday, Oct. 12, according to the release.
“Their situation may become dangerous if they encounter high, fast-moving water while traveling,” the weather agency said. “If people are at their homes or businesses, the water may rise quickly and trap them, or cause damage to the property without them having a chance to protect the property.”
What’s in the weather forecast for Sacramento?
According to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, Friday will bring clear, sunny skies with a high temperature near 74 degrees and a low around 53.
There was a slight chance of showers between 2 a.m. and 3 a.m. Saturday, with a 20% chance of precipitation, the weather agency said.
The clear weather is expected to continue through the weekend, with highs near 75 and lows around 51.
Rain is forecast to begin after 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 13, and continue through Wednesday, Oct. 15, according to the seven-day outlook.
What should I do if I’m caught in a thunderstorm?
When you are caught in a thunderstorm and can’t reach a safe location nearby, follow these tips from the National Weather Service:
- Avoid beach picnic shelters Avoid the tops of hills and open fields
- Avoid water
- Avoid trees and other tall objects
“Remember: if you see a flash, dash inside,” the weather agency said on X.
