Date: Fri, 16 Dec 2016 12:58:52 EST
Summary: An ongoing atmospheric river event continues to bring rainfall to many parts of California today, with heavy rainfall/snow expected on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada
Increasing streamflow and rising stage will continue today for many rivers and streams in CA as an atmospheric river moves across the State. A large number Counties in CA are under flash flood watch, flood alert, or winter storm watch through tonight.
The USGS California Water Science Center has deployed a total of 31 field crews today from all 8 USGS Field Offices in California to collect high-water measurements or perform sediment sampling at streamgaging locations across the State. This event is the first major, statewide rainstorm of the season. Many ephemeral streams across the state are experiencing their first flows of the season as California remains in a now 5-year drought.
Three media events will occur today at select streamgaging locations in the Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Sacramento metropolitan areas. At these events, USGS scientists will be available for interviews as field crews collect streamflow data.
Media Event: Accompany a USGS field crew as they monitor streamgages
California WaterWatch map showing elevated streamflows statewide