Steady rain moved through the Kern River Valley on Wednesday, leaving slick roadways, standing water in low-lying areas, and higher flows along the Kern River.
In parts of the valley, runoff pooled along road shoulders and drainage crossings, prompting temporary warning signs to alert drivers to localized flooding. Despite the wet conditions, major travel routes remained open, and no full road closures were observed as of Wednesday afternoon.
The Kern River showed visibly increased flow, with water moving faster than typical winter base levels. Small tributaries and side channels carried muddy runoff into the main channel, though the river remained within its banks in the areas observed. No official river advisories were posted, but fast-moving water and cold temperatures continued to make conditions unsafe for recreation…