The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flood Watch for more than 15 counties across California, citing an incoming atmospheric river expected to deliver heavy rainfall, rapid snowmelt, and elevated flood risks in low-lying and burn scar areas.
The Flood Watch remains in effect from late Friday night through Sunday afternoon, impacting regions including Sacramento, Yolo, El Dorado, Placer, Amador, and surrounding counties. Meteorologists warn that urban and small stream flooding, as well as flash floods near recent wildfire burn scars, are increasingly likely.
Did you know that just 12 inches of fast-moving water can carry away most cars? With rain being experienced across California, please be aware of your surroundings and stay safe on the roads by never driving into flooded areas.#Prepare#California#Storms#Rainpic.twitter.com/rIWo25t932
— California Department of Water Resources (@CA_DWR) January 3, 2026
According to the official NWS bulletin, “Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may also impact highways, streets, and underpasses.” The agency emphasized that those living near creeks and rivers should prepare for rapidly changing conditions and heed evacuation orders if issued.
Key Highlights:
- Over 15 counties are under a Flood Watch through Sunday
- Heavy rainfall from the atmospheric river is expected to intensify overnight
- Increased flood risk near recent wildfire burn scars
- Rapid snowmelt may worsen runoff into streams and rivers
First responders and public works crews work around the clock to assess and clear roadways amid heavy flooding from recent rainfall in burn-scarred areas.#california#flooding#rain#SevereWx#winter#FoxWeatherpic.twitter.com/dbOg6UIh23
— FOX Weather (@foxweather) January 2, 2026
The atmospheric river system, sometimes referred to as a “Pineapple Express” due to its origins near Hawaii, is forecasted to deliver 2 to 4 inches of rain in valley areas and more than 5 inches in foothills and mountainous regions. The Sierra Nevada could also experience significant snowmelt due to unseasonably warm temperatures.
In a statement to the press, NWS Sacramento meteorologist Katrina Hand said, “We’re expecting rainfall rates that could exceed a half-inch per hour at times. This could overwhelm drainage systems and cause localized flash flooding, especially in urban areas and places affected by recent wildfires.”…