The quantity of rain and snow that California received during the winter is likely to generate perilous circumstances this spring and summer as snowmelt enters the state’s rivers and streams, according to a recent news release from state officials.
As of April 3, government officials indicate that the statewide snowpack is 237% of average, making it one of the highest on record.
California Rivers Remain Above Flood Level
According to the National Weather Service’s River Forecast Center, the Merced River at Stevinson is still above flood level, or the threshold at which water can overtop banks and endanger persons and property nearby, as of Tuesday. The San Joaquin River is above the monitor stage at Newman, Patterson, Vernalis, and Mossdale, indicating the possibility of flooding.
The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for Fresno, Kings, and Tulare counties along the Kings River until 9 p.m. Because of floodgate releases from the Pine Flat Dam on Thursday. Sanger, Reedley, Kingsburg, and the Kings River Golf and Country Club will all see modest flooding.
A similar flood warning is in force along the San Joaquin River in Fresno and Madera counties until 9 p.m. p.m. Flooding is likely in Fresno, Mendota, Biola, Friant, and Millerton Lakes on Thursday as a result of Friant Dam releases.
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Reservoirs More Dangerous Than Usual
The wet weather has been beneficial to the state by alleviating the severe drought conditions, but the snowpack will melt, making rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs more perilous than usual. The storms’ influence is already wreaking havoc throughout the state. Parts of Tulare County were evacuated in March when “life-threatening” floods destroyed the area.
The American and Yuba rivers, which are popular for white water rafting and swimming, are forecast to have increased water flows with freezing temperatures that could damage anyone who wanders into the waters.
Anyone contemplating a trip to California’s rivers this year should exercise caution. Droughts in previous years have made the water more harmful. The rivers would more likely have debris, submerged trees, and rocks beneath the surface, creating hazardous conditions, according to the statement.
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