PROJECT ALERT NOTICE (CA)

Date: Sat, 07 Jan 2023 18:25:50 EST

Summary: Field work continues after week of strong storms

A series of strong storms affected most of California throughout the week. The storms combined to drop in excess of 10 inches of precipitation along the western slope of the Sierras, north of Redding, and along much of the coastline from just south of Eureka to Long Beach. Widespread flooding was reported in San Francisco. Strong gusts of wind knocked over trees and cut power to many residents; over 32,000 were still without power this morning.

From Dec 31 to Jan 6, the CAWSC Data Program made over 230 measurements at over 200 streamgages, with each field office sending staff into the field. Several measurements were peak direct measurements at respective streamgages; two gages have long periods of record, while most stations have short periods of record. Several ratings were extended. 5 gages received minor damage or were silted in, the last of which is expected to be repaired by tomorrow.

Today, most staff are resting today in anticipation of the next storm predicted for early next week. 5 crews of 9 people are measuring sites in the Santa Cruz and Sacramento areas that have not flowed in several years due to the drought.