URGENT UPDATE: Central California is bracing for a series of powerful storms this weekend, with a flood watch already issued for the Sierra foothills. As meteorologists anticipate widespread precipitation, farmers are cautiously optimistic about the potential benefits for the Sierra Nevada snowpack, crucial for water supply.
Officials at the National Weather Service in Hanford have confirmed that the flood watch will be in effect from Friday evening through Monday afternoon. Northern foothills are expected to receive over 2 inches of rain in the next 72 hours. Meteorologist Stephen McCoy stated, “As we get into Saturday and Sunday, we’re expecting another system that’ll be moving through our area.”
In the heart of the Central Valley, farmers are currently harvesting citrus and vegetable crops, and accurate forecasts are critical. Ryan Jacobsen, CEO of the Fresno County Farm Bureau, highlighted the importance of preparation, stating, “Overall, we typically know at least a week out what’s coming, which positions us well for preparing for types of events.” Farmers have been actively pruning and securing trees during dry periods to mitigate potential storm impacts.
So far, the storm systems have been manageable, allowing the ground to absorb moisture without significant flooding. Jacobsen remarked, “Based off how the series of storms have been coming in, they’re perfect amounts.” This careful balance has significantly contributed to building the snowpack in the Sierra Nevada, which is vital for local water supplies.
The California Department of Water Resources recently released data indicating a snow depth of 24 inches with a snow water content of 5 inches, amounting to about 71% of the state average. Hydrometeorologist Angelique Fabbiani-Leon noted, “It is still too early to determine how much water will be available for the season,” underscoring the uncertainty that farmers face.
Despite the risks, farmers remain hopeful. Jacobsen expressed a sense of excitement but with a cautious outlook, saying, “It’s an exciting time right now, but it’s cautious optimism hoping that we’re going to continue to see these storms roll in.”
As the storms approach, residents and farmers alike are advised to stay alert and prepared. The situation is developing rapidly, and updates will continue to unfold throughout the weekend. Follow local news outlets for the latest alerts and forecasts.