Major Winter Storm Watch in Effect on the Stanislaus National Forest
Release Date: Dec 11, 2014
Sonora, Calif., (Dec. 10, 2014)… Heavy rains, high winds and snowy conditions are headed
towards the Stanislaus National Forest, according to a weather alert issued by the National Weather
Service on Dec. 8th.
“If people plan to visit the National Forest in the next few days, they need to be prepared for
rapidly changing weather conditions including heavy rain, snow and possible debris along roadways,”
declares Jeanne Higgins, Forest Supervisor.
The wind warning, which is in effect from 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10th through 2 p.m. on Dec.
11th poses concerns for the Rim and El Portal burn areas as structurally damaged trees could topple
with strong winds.
A weather watch is also in effect for flash flooding. Warning signs of a flash flood include a
rapid rise in water levels. Water can overflow banks and culverts causing impediments along
roadways. A sudden change in water color from clear to a muddy brown indicates that significant
amounts of silt, mud and ash are being churned into water sources by the heavy rains. Debris flows
can result on hillsides not yet stabilized by post-fire vegetation and mud and rock slides could
ensue.
“It’s important for visitors to realize that a flash flood can happen even if it is not raining
right where a person is standing,” says Mary Moore, Forest Hydrologist. “Further upstream it could
be raining really hard. It’s particularly important to not walk or drive through a flooded area as
that’s where serious accidents usually occur.”
Numerous culverts, acres of mulching and water bars were put in place but the danger still exists,
especially during heavy rain events. Stabilization work has been ongoing since these fires
occurred; however, the vast landscape affected still poses a concern.
High winds and flash floods are not the only potential fallout from this storm. Blizzard conditions
at 5,500 feet are also expected from Thursday morning till Friday morning.
Safety tips include avoiding travel during periods of heavy rain, snow, and high wind unless
necessary. Information on flood safety is available on the NOAA website:
http://www.floodsafety.noaa.gov/states/ca-flood.shtml and questions regarding any part of the
upcoming storm can be addressed to the National Weather Service at 916-979-3045.