West Coast deluge continues as storms keep rolling onshore

By Brett Rathbun, AccuWeather.com Meteorologist

January 17,2016; 9:44PM,EST

 

 

The flood risk will increase this week from northern California to western Washington as storms continue to hit the area.
Rainfall amounts of 4 to 8 inches are expected to fall from western Washington into northern California this week. The heaviest rain will focus on southwestern Oregon and far northern California where some areas could receive another 10 inches of rain.
"A series of storms will continue to roll into the western United States this week," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Matt Rinde said.

With new rounds of rain arriving in areas that have already been saturated from storms since December, there will be an increased threat for localized flash flooding from Seattle to San Francisco.
The greatest threat for flooding will lie in northern California and far southwestern Oregon.
Those traveling along Interstate 5 from Sacramento to Seattle this week will have to be alert for heavy downpours and puddling on roadways at times. Those traveling on the highways will want to reduce their speed to reduce the risk of hydroplaning.

Teen dies after falling into icy Colorado pond

Gusty winds for most of the storms will be confined to the coastal regions of Washington, Oregon and California. Winds could occasionally gust to 40 mph.
Despite the potential for flooding, portions of southwestern Oregon and northern California will benefit the most from this rainfall as it will continue to chip away at the drought across these areas.
Meanwhile, heavy snow will fall across the higher terrain. The heaviest snow will bury the Cascades and the northern and central portions of the Sierra Nevada with totals expected to be measured in feet by Friday.
RELATED:
Northwest interactive radar
AccuWeather winter weather center
Watch: Avalanche slams over small village in France
"The consistent snowfall will bode well for replenishing glaciers and high-mountain snowpack that is a vital water source for parts of the region come spring and summer," AccuWeather Meteorologist Evan Duffey said.
Between 12 and 24 inches of snow can fall across the Bitterroots, Blue Mountains, Yellowstone National Park, the Tetons and Colorado Rockies into Friday. Snow will also make an appearance at times in Salt Lake City and Billings, Montana.
Travel could be difficult across some of the passes, including Snoqualmie and Donner. Motorists are advised to adhere to travel restrictions, including the use of tire chains.

The onslaught of storms will bring fresh powder for all skiers and snowboarders planning to hit the slopes. Those heading to the slopes should follow the rules of the ski resorts as there may be the potential for avalanches as these storms are preventing much of the newly fallen snow to compact.
It may not be until the end of January or early February when storms with significant rain and snow may return to Southern California.