The article discusses the impact of the first Pineapple Express storm that has hit California, particularly focusing on the San Francisco Gulf and Southern California. Heavy rains have caused significant flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage. In Sonoma County, a house collapsed into the Russian River as a result of hillside erosion, prompting evacuations due to flood risks in surrounding areas. Roads, including US 101 and California 99, have been flooded, and power outages have affected many residents.
The storm is expected to weaken as it moves south, but meteorologists warn of potential floods and mudslides, particularly in the Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. Despite the storm’s rainfall being beneficial for reducing wildfire risks, forecasts indicate that the precipitation levels may not be enough to significantly alleviate drought conditions in Southern California.
Northern California has faced severe weather, with wind gusts reaching up to 90 mph and record rainfall amounts reported in San Francisco. Flooding has disrupted transportation and led to significant damage in various regions. While the article notes that additional storms could follow, the expected rainfall levels remain modest, raising concerns about ongoing wildfire threats if drier conditions return.
Overall, the article captures the severity of the storm’s impact across California, highlighting the challenges of flooding, infrastructure damage, and the ongoing need to manage drought conditions while addressing the risk of wildfires.
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