SAN DIEGO, Calif. (KSWB) — As San Diego County reels from major flooding from a winter storm, the National Weather Service (NWS) said another “impactful” atmospheric river is likely on the way.
For those unfamiliar with the term, an atmospheric river refers to a flowing column of condensed water vapor in the atmosphere that’s responsible for producing significant amounts of rain and snow.
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The weather event is expected to move southward along the West Coast Jan. 31 through Feb. 5, bringing heavy rain and high winds to the Golden State, weather officials explained. For mountain areas at higher elevations, NWS said heavy snow can be expected.
To start the month of February, NWS said there is a 60-80% chance of above normal precipitation along the West Coast — from southern Oregon throughout California — and inland to the Great Basin as well as the Desert Southwest.
Between Jan. 31 and Feb. 5, NWS said there is a high risk — greater than 60% chance — of “hazardous” and “heavy” precipitation forecast across California. This could lead to localized flooding, particularly in areas that recently received heavy rain.