Flood Watch, River Monitoring, Coastal Flooding, and Winter Storm Warning in Effect Across Northwest California

Flooding this weekend. [Photo taken Saturday in the King Salmon and Fields Landing area by Corbett Petersen]

A broad Flood Watch is in effect through Monday evening for much of northwest California, including Humboldt, Mendocino, Lake, and southern Trinity counties, according to the National Weather Service in Eureka. Forecasters say more flooding is possible as more rain moves through the region today.

The National Weather Service warns that 1 to 4 inches of additional rain is forecast through Monday. This can cause flooding of creeks, streams, and other low-lying or flood-prone areas, as well as an increased risk of rockslides and landslides along roadways. (Check QuickMap before you travel. As of this writing at midnight January 5, Highway 36 and the Avenue of the Giants are closed.)

Forecasters are watching three rivers across the region:

The Russian River near Hopland is under a Flood Watch from Monday afternoon through late Monday night. The river is predicted to reach flood stage at 15 feet around 3 p.m. Monday and crest near 15.6 feet around 9 p.m. Minor flooding is possible, particularly along Highway 175 near the Russian River bridge, with flooding of nearby cropland expected along the right bank of the river.

The Eel River at Fernbridge is already above monitor stage and is forecast to rise further. However, current predictions say it should remain below official flood stage, but local residents are advised to pay close attention as conditions evolve.

The Mad River near Arcata is also above monitor stage and expected to continue rising. While it is not predicted to reach flood stage, locals should be alert, particularly in low-lying areas near the river.

In addition to minor flooding concerns, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect for northern Trinity County, including Highway 3 over Scott Mountain, through 4 p.m. Monday. Heavy snow above 5,000 feet is expected, with an additional 8 to 12 inches of the cold white stuff possible. Travel over mountain passes could be very difficult. But main roads such as 299 and 36, should be relatively clear.

Flooding [Photo taken Saturday in the King Salmon and Fields Landing area by Corbett Petersen]

The high tide at the Humboldt Bay North Spit is expected around 12:28 p.m., with flooding possible one to two hours before and after. Impacts may include flooding of parks and roads, with isolated closures likely. Areas such as Jackson Ranch Road in the Arcata Bottoms and several roads in King Salmon are expected to see impacts.

Residents of low-lying areas and drivers should pay attention to forecasts and be alert for possible flooding. Travelers should use caution, especially near rivers, creeks, coastal lowlands, and mountain passes as the storm system continues to cross Northern California.