Rain, wind and more mountain snow blasting through parts of West Coast
After over half a decade, California is drought free. But despite the above average precipitation over the last three years, water officials in the state say conservation should continue.
Another storm is plowing into the West Coast of the United States with rain, wind and mountain snow that's forecast to last through Friday.
The storm system is bringing drenching rain and mountain snow through parts of Washington, Oregon and Northern California to end the week, according to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Jack Boston.
This storm is expected to be stronger than the one that swept through on Tuesday, which triggered isolated flooding in portions of Northern California.
Thunderstorms with strong winds also rumbled through parts of the region.
A new wave of travel disruptions, dampened outdoor activities and heightened flood concerns will arise with the unsettled weather late this week.
Soaking rain will spread across western Oregon and Northern California on Friday.
Motorists along any section of Interstate 5 from Sacramento and Redding, California, to Eugene and Portland, Oregon, and Seattle should be prepared for slower commute times and periods of reduced visibility.
Airline delays can also occur at the bigger hubs, and there will be an increased risk of turbulent flights.
Those heading out to Oracle Park to see the San Francisco Giants host the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday afternoon should be prepared for the wet weather with ponchos, umbrellas and waterproof shoes on hand. Delays or a postponement are possible.
Even worse than disruptions to travel and outdoor plans, some communities could once again be hit with high water.
"Flooding and mudslides will be possible," Boston said. These risks will be greatest in burn scar areas and where the ground remains soaked from Tuesday's storm.
This satellite imagery shows the storm system moving from the Pacific Ocean into the western United States on April 5, 2019. (Photo/NOAA Goes-East satellite)
Motorists should never drive through floodwaters or around barricades to reach their destination. Instead, turn around and find a safer alternate route.
Snow levels will remain fairly high throughout the storm's duration, generally 6,000 feet and above, but can still create difficulties for those heading out late Friday for a weekend ski trip in the Cascades or Sierra Nevada.
Gusty winds whipping through the mountains and along the coastline from Washington to Northern California can further create travel difficulties and may cause localized damage to trees and power lines.
The strongest winds will blow through on Friday, with gusts of 40-50 mph possible.
Download the free AccuWeather app to see the extent of the storm's impact in your area.
Two more storms are expected to target the West Coast this weekend. The bulk of the moisture from these storms may focus on the Pacific Northwest.
A strong storm is forecast to push inland on Monday and is likely to have significant impact from coast to coast next week.
