Yet another flood watch is in effect as areas have been primed from previous storms and are unable to hold any more water.
The Reno National weather service models say this second atmospheric river system appears cooler and not as wet as last Friday’s, yet runoff can respond more rapidly with more rain set to fall on already drenched grounds and snowpack. Current river levels are elevated, flows are faster, and renewed flooding concerns are in place for the Middle fork of the Feather River near Portola.
The Plumas Sheriff’s office has issued an evacuation warning for several low-lying areas near the river. The sheriff’s office says if your home is in these areas, you should be prepared to leave and move to higher ground, suggesting it is best to do so now If possible before conditions worsen. The warning applies to all areas along the Feather River from A23 to Sloat, according to the sheriff’s office, and if flood risk elevates, evacuation points will be released to those affected.
The national weather service says these level are mimicking that of 2017, the last year major flooding was seen throughout the region. Flood warnings will remain in place for Beckwourth to Clio, Cromberg/Sloat// and Two Rivers area until the river falls below the flood stage.
The city council of Portola will meet this afternoon to declare a state of emergency, joining along with the county, which was included in the state’s declaration by Governor Gavin Newsom last week. This is being done out of precaution to enable access to emergency response and resources should the city need them as winter storms are projected to persist throughout the month.
