Debris Flows and Flooding in California, January 4 to 5, 2023

Name: Debris Flows and Flooding in California, January 4 to 5, 2023
Start: 2023-01-04T07:00
End: 2023-01-05T22:14
Location: California

January 4 to 5, 2023 · NWS HNX · 99 events in 25 counties and zones

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it; 68 filed by county or forecast zone are drawn at its center, in a lighter ring. Tap one for its entry below.

Tornadoes
Tropical storms and surge
Floods
Wind
Hail
Winter weather
Heat and drought
Cold
Fire, smoke and dust
Marine and coastal
Other

Open the live radar over this ground

The toll

Deaths: 0
Injuries: 0
Property damage: $106,000
Crop damage: None recorded
Events: 99

Deaths and injuries are direct and indirect together, as the offices filed them. Damage is property and crops in the dollars of the year, not adjusted for inflation, and only where an office estimated it.

What happened

The episode as NWS HNX wrote it up.

A large low pressure system brought moderate to heavy precipitation, widespread flooding and strong winds to the area on January 4 and 5. This system had an atmospheric river associated with it which contained a deep fetch of moisture of tropical origin resulting in widespread moderate to heavy precipitation across the area with the snow level ranging between 7000 and 8000 feet for much of the event. Several stations above 8000 feet picked up 18 to 30 inches of new snowfall from this storm. Many stations in the Sierra Nevada picked up an inch and a half to three inches of liquid precipitation while the adjacent foothills picked up 1 to 2 inches of rain and the San Joaquin Valley received around a half inch to an inch from Fresno County northward and a quarter to a half inch further southward. This rainfall came on top of already saturated soils from the late December storms resulting in widespread nuisance flooding across the area. The Tehachapi Mountains generally picked up between a quarter to a half inch of rainfall while rain shadowing effect limited rainfall in the Kern County Deserts to a tenth of an inch or less at most stations. This system also produced very strong winds across much of the area with several stations in the Kern County Mountains and West Side hills measuring gusts in excess of 60 mph with several ridge top stations in Kern County reporting peak gusts in excess of 75 mph. Several reports of wind damage were received by WFO Hanford during this event.

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before the first event, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Hanford, CA wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at Jan 4, 5:17 AM PST, 1 hour 43 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Jan 4, 5:17 AM PST, 1 hour 43 minutes before

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Hanford CA
517 AM PST Wed Jan 4 2023

.SYNOPSIS...Active weather continues for at least several more
days. The next potent storm system will begin impacting the area
this morning into Thursday evening. On Friday, calmer weather is
expected before another low pressure system arrives into the area
Saturday.

&&

.DISCUSSION...
The developing storm system well off the coast of northern
California is steering a plume of subtropical moisture into the
California coast and associated low clouds and precipitation are
beginning to push into western portions of our area. This is the
beginning of another significant rain, wind and snow event for the
central California interior. Rainfall amounts as much as 1-2
inches are expected in the San Joaquin Valley before the system
pushes east of the area late Thursday night. Foothill locations
below the snow line will receive around 2-4 inches of rain with
locally higher amounts. Even desert areas are slated to accumulate
around 1 inch of rainfall from this system. As much as 1-3 inches
of liquid will also fall in the Kern County mountains. Due to the
excessive rainfall that will impact our area, a Flood Watch is in
effect through 4 AM Friday for all areas outside the desert zones
that are below the snow level.

The snow level will be varying through the event, starting out
around 5500-6000 ft this morning, then raising to around 8000 ft
through this afternoon, before lowering back to near 6000 ft by
later tonight and Thursday morning, then near 5000 ft by Thursday
night/Friday morning as precipitation tapers off. Total snow
accumulations will be as much as 3 to 5 feet at the highest
elevations and around 1-2 ft from 6000 to 7000 ft. A Winter Storm
Warning is in effect for the Sierra from Sequoia National Park
northward until 5 AM Friday.

The other component of this system will be some strong gusty
winds. Probabilities of seeing southerly wind gusts over 58 mph
through the Grapevine and downsloping into the south end of the
Valley are running around 55 percent. A High Wind Warning is in
effect for these strong winds. Wind gusts over 35 mph are also
likely in the remainder of the San Joaquin Valley and the
foothills, with gusts over 45 mph expected over the West Side
mountains. Wind Advisories are in effect for these areas today
through early Thursday morning.

Ensemble model solutions show a brief break from the
precipitation Friday under weak ridging, then another less
impactful system Saturday and Sunday, followed by more
precipitation Monday and Tuesday associated with yet another
system.

 &&

.AVIATION...Increasing MVFR conditions with areas of mountain
obscuring IFR and local LIFR conditions in low clouds and
precipitation will become prevalent across the Sierra Nevada and
Tehachapi Mountains and the adjacent foothills and valley facing
slopes after 15Z today. Areas of MVFR in rain and low clouds over
the San Joaquin Valley and desert areas after 12Z today.

&&

.AIR QUALITY ISSUES...

On Wednesday January 4 2023,Fireplace/Wood Stove Burning Status
is: No Burning Unless Registered in Fresno and Kern Counties.
Burning Discouraged in Kings, Madera, Merced, and Tulare Counties,
and Kern (Greater Frazier Park Area) and Sequoia National Park and
Forest.

&&

.CERTAINTY...

The level of certainty for days 1 and 2 is high.
The level of certainty for days 3 through 7 is medium.

Certainty levels include low...medium...and high. Please visit
www.weather.gov/hnx/certainty.html for additional information
and/or to provide feedback.

&&

.HNX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
Flood Watch from 4 AM PST early this morning through late
Thursday night for CAZ300>327-329>336-338.

Wind Advisory until 5 AM PST Thursday for CAZ300-304-308-313-316.

Wind Advisory from 10 AM this morning to 5 AM PST Thursday for
CAZ301>303-317.

Wind Advisory from 2 PM this afternoon to 5 AM PST Thursday for
CAZ305>307-309>312-314-315-319-321.

Winter Storm Warning until 4 AM PST Friday for CAZ323-326>330.

High Wind Warning until 5 AM PST Thursday for CAZ334>336.

&&

public...JEB
aviation....JEB

weather.gov/hanford

The radar

The national radar mosaic for the moment the first event began.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

33 high wind, 29 flood, 26 strong wind, 9 heavy snow, 2 debris flow. Local standard time, as filed.

Heavy Snow, Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley

When: January 4, 7:00 AM PST to January 5, 7:00 PM PST
Where: Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley forecast zone
Reported by: SNOTEL
Coordinates: 37.609, -119.874 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Paradise Meadow SNOTEL (7676 feet) picked up an estimated 20 inches of new snowfall.

Heavy Snow, Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley

When: January 4, 7:00 AM PST to January 5, 7:00 PM PST
Where: Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley forecast zone
Reported by: SNOTEL
Coordinates: 37.609, -119.874 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The White Wolf SNOTEL (7900 feet) picked up an estimated 18 inches of new snowfall.

Heavy Snow, Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley

When: January 4, 7:00 AM PST to January 5, 7:00 PM PST
Where: Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley forecast zone
Reported by: SNOTEL
Coordinates: 37.609, -119.874 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Tenaya Lake SNOTEL (8150 feet) picked up an estimated 22 inches of new snowfall.

Heavy Snow, Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley

When: January 4, 7:00 AM PST to January 5, 7:00 PM PST
Where: Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley forecast zone
Reported by: SNOTEL
Coordinates: 37.609, -119.874 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Ostrander Lake SNOTEL (8200 feet) picked up an estimated 18 inches of new snowfall.

Heavy Snow, Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley

When: January 4, 7:00 AM PST to January 5, 7:00 PM PST
Where: Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley forecast zone
Reported by: SNOTEL
Coordinates: 37.609, -119.874 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Dana Meadows SNOTEL (9800 feet) picked up an estimated 23 inches of new snowfall.

Heavy Snow, Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley

When: January 4, 7:00 AM PST to January 5, 7:00 PM PST
Where: Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley forecast zone
Reported by: Park/Forest Service
Coordinates: 37.609, -119.874 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Tuolumne Meadows observers (8600 feet) measured 33 inches of new snowfall.

Heavy Snow, Upper San Joaquin River

When: January 4, 7:00 AM PST to January 5, 7:00 PM PST
Where: Upper San Joaquin River forecast zone
Reported by: SNOTEL
Coordinates: 36.988, -119.706 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Kaiser Point SNOTEL (9131 feet) picked up an estimated 19 inches of new snowfall.

Heavy Snow, Sequoia Np

When: January 4, 7:00 AM PST to January 5, 7:00 PM PST
Where: Sequoia Np forecast zone
Reported by: SNOTEL
Coordinates: 36.220, -118.800 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Crabtree Meadow SNOTEL (10700 feet) picked up an estimated 20 inches of new snowfall.

Heavy Snow, South End of the Upper Sierra

When: January 4, 7:00 AM PST to January 5, 7:00 PM PST
Where: South End of the Upper Sierra forecast zone
Reported by: SNOTEL
Coordinates: 35.782, -118.765 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Wet Meadows SNOTEL (9019 feet) picked up an estimated 20 inches of new snowfall.

High Wind, South End San Joaquin Valley

When: January 4, 10:40 AM PST
Where: South End San Joaquin Valley forecast zone
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Breckenridge Road South measured a peak wind gust of 58 mph.

Strong Wind, Bakersfield

When: January 4, 2:05 PM PST
Where: Bakersfield forecast zone
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a tree down at the intersection of Fairfax Rd. and College Ave. in Bakersfield.

Strong Wind, Bakersfield

When: January 4, 2:58 PM PST
Where: Bakersfield forecast zone
Measured: 43 kt (49 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $25,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a high profile vehicle was damaged by a fallen tree at the intersection of SR 58 and Tower Line Rd.

Strong Wind, Bakersfield

When: January 4, 4:04 PM PST
Where: Bakersfield forecast zone
Measured: 40 kt (46 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a power line pole and lines down in the northbound lanes of Edison Rd. near the intersection of Hermosa Rd.

High Wind, West Side Mountains North of Highway 198

When: January 4, 4:20 PM PST
Where: West Side Mountains North of Highway 198 forecast zone
Measured: 51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by: RAWS
Coordinates: 36.975, -120.184 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Alcade RAWS measured a peak wind gust of 59 mph.

Debris Flow, Kern

When: January 4, 4:32 PM PST to 6:32 PM PST
Where: Kern County, 7.96 mi NE of Edison to 7.93 mi NE of Edison
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 35.446, -118.791

California Highway Patrol reported a large boulder on the northbound lane of SR 178 near Edison.

High Wind, West Side Mountains North of Highway 198

When: January 4, 5:10 PM PST
Where: West Side Mountains North of Highway 198 forecast zone
Measured: 65 kt (75 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 36.975, -120.184 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Joaquin Ridge measured a peak wind gust of 75 mph.

High Wind, Frazier Mountain Communities

When: January 4, 5:30 PM PST
Where: Frazier Mountain Communities forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Pelato Peak measured a peak wind gust of 64 mph.

High Wind, Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley

When: January 4, 7:00 PM PST
Where: Yosemite Np Outside of the Valley forecast zone
Measured: 54 kt (62 mph) measured gust
Reported by: RAWS
Coordinates: 37.609, -119.874 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Crane Flat RAWS measured a peak wind gust of 62 mph.

High Wind, Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra

When: January 4, 7:16 PM PST
Where: Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra forecast zone
Measured: 51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by: RAWS
Coordinates: 37.400, -119.834 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Smith Peak RAWS measured a peak wind gust of 59 mph.

Strong Wind, Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra

When: January 4, 7:27 PM PST
Where: Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.400, -119.834 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a tree in the roadway on Triangle Rd. and E. Westfall Rd.

High Wind, Tehachapi

When: January 4, 7:50 PM PST
Where: Tehachapi forecast zone
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Southern California Edison station at Tejon Hills measured a peak wind gust of 69 mph.

High Wind, Piute - Walker Pass (Basin?)

When: January 4, 8:00 PM PST
Where: Piute - Walker Pass (Basin?) forecast zone
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Lamont 15NE measured a peak wind gust of 58 mph.

High Wind, Tehachapi

When: January 4, 8:20 PM PST
Where: Tehachapi forecast zone
Measured: 76 kt (87 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Beartrap Road measured a peak wind gust of 76 mph.

High Wind, Grapevine

When: January 4, 8:40 PM PST
Where: Grapevine forecast zone
Measured: 82 kt (94 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station 5NW Lebec measured a peak wind gust of 94 mph.

High Wind, Tehachapi

When: January 4, 8:40 PM PST
Where: Tehachapi forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Tejon Creek measured a peak wind gust of 64 mph.

Strong Wind, Bakersfield

When: January 4, 8:47 PM PST
Where: Bakersfield forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $20,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a tree fell on top of a vehicle on SR 178 in Bakersfield between Union Ave. and Beale Ave. An additional vehicle hit the tree and was damaged.

High Wind, Tehachapi

When: January 4, 8:50 PM PST
Where: Tehachapi forecast zone
Measured: 58 kt (67 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Southern California Edison station at Lebec Bear Trap measured a peak wind gust of 67 mph.

High Wind, Tehachapi

When: January 4, 8:50 PM PST
Where: Tehachapi forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Pampa Peak measured a peak wind gust of 65 mph.

Strong Wind, Bakersfield

When: January 4, 9:01 PM PST
Where: Bakersfield forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a large tree branch in the right lane of eastbound SR 178 near the Union Ave. offramp.

High Wind, Grapevine

When: January 4, 9:13 PM PST
Where: Grapevine forecast zone
Measured: 90 kt (104 mph) measured gust
Reported by: RAWS
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Grapevine Peak RAWS measured a peak wind gust of 104 mph.

High Wind, Tehachapi

When: January 4, 9:20 PM PST
Where: Tehachapi forecast zone
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Southern California Edison station at Pigeon Spring measured a peak wind gust of 61 mph.

High Wind, West Side Mountains North of Highway 198

When: January 4, 9:27 PM PST
Where: West Side Mountains North of Highway 198 forecast zone
Measured: 54 kt (62 mph) measured gust
Reported by: RAWS
Coordinates: 36.975, -120.184 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Panoche Road RAWS measured a peak wind gust of 62 mph.

High Wind, Grapevine

When: January 4, 9:40 PM PST
Where: Grapevine forecast zone
Measured: 63 kt (72 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Southern California Edison station at Grapevine measured a peak wind gust of 73 mph.

High Wind, Tehachapi

When: January 4, 9:50 PM PST
Where: Tehachapi forecast zone
Measured: 51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Southern California Edison station at Conta Lena Road measured a peak wind gust of 59 mph.

Strong Wind, Merced-Madera-Mendota

When: January 4, 9:58 PM PST
Where: Merced-Madera-Mendota forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.056, -120.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a large tree branch in the eastbound lane of SR 152 near the intersection of Rd. 6.

High Wind, Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra

When: January 4, 10:00 PM PST
Where: Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 37.400, -119.834 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Yosemite 49 measured a peak wind gust of 64 mph.

Strong Wind, Merced-Madera-Mendota

When: January 4, 10:09 PM PST
Where: Merced-Madera-Mendota forecast zone
Measured: 39 kt (45 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.056, -120.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported 4-5 poles on the roadway at the intersection of Le Grand Rd. and Burchell Ave.

High Wind, Tehachapi

When: January 4, 10:10 PM PST
Where: Tehachapi forecast zone
Measured: 54 kt (62 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Southern California Edison station at Tehachapi Reeves St. measured a peak wind gust of 62 mph.

Flood, Merced

When: January 4, 10:20 PM PST to January 5, 12:20 AM PST
Where: Merced County, 5.22 mi SSW of Atwater Muni Arpt to 5.35 mi SSW of Atwater Muni Arpt
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.267, -120.652

California Highway Patrol reported a traffic collision near the intersection of Libson Rd. and S. Bert Crane Rd. in Merced County. The response found the roadway to be completely flooded.

High Wind, Tehachapi

When: January 4, 10:40 PM PST
Where: Tehachapi forecast zone
Measured: 51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Southern California Edison station at Stallion Springs measured a peak wind gust of 59 mph.

Strong Wind, Merced-Madera-Mendota

When: January 4, 10:59 PM PST
Where: Merced-Madera-Mendota forecast zone
Measured: 39 kt (45 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.056, -120.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a pole downed with power lines across the roadway at the intersection of E. Mission Ave. and S. Arboled Ln.

Strong Wind, Bakersfield

When: January 4, 10:59 PM PST
Where: Bakersfield forecast zone
Measured: 48 kt (55 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported power to traffic signals at the intersection of N. Chester Ave and E. Norris Rd. in Oildale was knocked out by wind gusts.

High Wind, Grapevine

When: January 4, 11:00 PM PST
Where: Grapevine forecast zone
Measured: 74 kt (85 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Tejon Overlook measured a peak wind gust of 85 mph.

High Wind, Grapevine

When: January 4, 11:00 PM PST
Where: Grapevine forecast zone
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Southern California Edison station at El Tejon School measured a peak wind gust of 60 mph.

Strong Wind, Merced-Madera-Mendota

When: January 4, 11:01 PM PST
Where: Merced-Madera-Mendota forecast zone
Measured: 39 kt (45 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.056, -120.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a pole was blown down across Ave. 25 near the intersection of Rd. 9 in Madera County.

Strong Wind, Fresno - Clovis

When: January 4, 11:39 PM PST
Where: Fresno - Clovis forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 36.758, -119.649 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a tree fell across Fairmont Ave near the intersection of Arcade Ave. in Fresno.

Strong Wind, Fresno - Clovis

When: January 4, 11:47 PM PST
Where: Fresno - Clovis forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) measured gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 36.758, -119.649 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a tree down on the offramp of northbound SR 99 at Clinton Ave. in Fresno.

Strong Wind, Merced-Madera-Mendota

When: January 4, 11:53 PM PST
Where: Merced-Madera-Mendota forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.056, -120.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported power lines down across the roadway on August Ave. near the intersection of Hinton Ave. in Delhi.

Strong Wind, South End of the Upper Sierra

When: January 5, 12:00 AM PST to 6:00 AM PST
Where: South End of the Upper Sierra forecast zone
Measured: 48 kt (55 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 35.782, -118.765 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Tulare County Emergency Manager reported a tree down on M99 at milepost 11 south of Johnsondale.

Strong Wind, Fresno - Clovis

When: January 5, 12:34 AM PST
Where: Fresno - Clovis forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 36.758, -119.649 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported at tree blocking the southbound lanes of Golden State Blvd. near the intersection of Jefferson Ave. in Fresno.

Flood, Kings

When: January 5, 12:50 AM PST to 2:50 AM PST
Where: Kings County, 14.55 mi S of Avenal to 14.33 mi S of Avenal
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 35.790, -120.110

California Highway Patrol reported a large rockslide blocking the roadway on SR 41 southwest of the intersection with SR 33.

High Wind, South End Sierra Foothills

When: January 5, 12:50 AM PST
Where: South End Sierra Foothills forecast zone
Measured: 51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.782, -118.765 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Southern California Edison station at Dead Ox Creek measured a peak wind gust of 59 mph.

Strong Wind, Fresno - Clovis

When: January 5, 12:51 AM PST
Where: Fresno - Clovis forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 36.758, -119.649 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a very large tree across the roadway from the northeast corner of the intersection of N. Armstrong Ave,. and E. Harvey Ave. in Fresno.

Strong Wind, Fresno - Clovis

When: January 5, 12:57 AM PST
Where: Fresno - Clovis forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 36.758, -119.649 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported multiple power lines down and fires near the intersection of W. Belmont Ave. and N. Lafayette Ave. in Fresno.

High Wind, West Side Mountains South of Highway 198

When: January 5, 1:13 AM PST
Where: West Side Mountains South of Highway 198 forecast zone
Measured: 57 kt (66 mph) measured gust
Reported by: RAWS
Coordinates: 36.059, -119.398 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Twisselman RAWS measured a peak wind gust of 66 mph.

High Wind, Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra

When: January 5, 2:10 AM PST
Where: Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra forecast zone
Measured: 57 kt (66 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 37.400, -119.834 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Penon Blanco measured a peak wind gust of 66 mph.

High Wind, Grapevine

When: January 5, 2:20 AM PST
Where: Grapevine forecast zone
Measured: 51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Grapevine Road East measured a peak wind gust of 59 mph.

High Wind, Mojave Desert Slope(S)

When: January 5, 2:32 AM PST
Where: Mojave Desert Slope(S) forecast zone
Measured: 51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by: RAWS
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Blue Max RAWS measured a peak wind gust of 59 mph.

Strong Wind, Bakersfield

When: January 5, 4:04 AM PST
Where: Bakersfield forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a downed tree blocking the onramp of westbound SR 178 at Beale Ave. in Bakersfield.

High Wind, Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge

When: January 5, 4:10 AM PST
Where: Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge forecast zone
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 36.758, -119.649 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Huntington Lake measured a peak wind gust of 61 mph.

High Wind, Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra

When: January 5, 4:40 AM PST
Where: Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra forecast zone
Measured: 63 kt (72 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 37.400, -119.834 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The PG&E station at Yosemite Pilot Peak measured a peak wind gust of 72 mph.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 4:52 AM PST to 6:52 AM PST
Where: Fresno County, 14.95 mi W of Coalinga to 14.91 mi W of Coalinga
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 36.158, -120.638

California Highway patrol reported a mudslide blocking the roadway on SR 198.

Flood, Merced

When: January 5, 4:52 AM PST to 6:52 AM PST
Where: Merced County, 3.97 mi ENE of (Mer)castle Afb to 3.87 mi ENE of (Mer)castle Afb
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.390, -120.502

California Highway Patrol reported roadway flooding on SR 59 near the Merced County Regional Waste Landfill.

High Wind, Frazier Mountain Communities

When: January 5, 4:55 AM PST
Where: Frazier Mountain Communities forecast zone
Measured: 56 kt (64 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Public report on Facebook showing 5 treed downed along with a power pole and power lines on the north slope of Mount Pinos.

Strong Wind, Merced-Madera-Mendota

When: January 5, 5:00 AM PST
Where: Merced-Madera-Mendota forecast zone
Measured: 39 kt (45 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 37.056, -120.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Merced County Fire Department reported seven power lines blown down overnight in Le Grand.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 5:17 AM PST to 7:17 AM PST
Where: Fresno County, 1.45 mi NNW of (Fch) Chandler Af to 1.6 mi N of (Fch) Chandler Af
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 36.751, -119.826

California Highway Patrol reported flooding on southbound SR 99 at the Belmont Ave. offramp.

High Wind, Tehachapi

When: January 5, 5:50 AM PST
Where: Tehachapi forecast zone
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Southern California Edison station at Bear Valley Springs measured a peak wind gust of 58 mph.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 5:52 AM PST to 7:52 AM PST
Where: Fresno County, 1.49 mi NNW of Clovis to 1.52 mi NNW of Clovis
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.840, -119.710

Public report of flooding along the Dry Creek Trail in Clovis with nearby yards and basements flooded.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 6:08 AM PST to 8:08 AM PST
Where: Fresno County, 1.21 mi SE of Fig Garden Vlg to 1.24 mi SE of Fig Garden Vlg
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 36.807, -119.785

California Highway Patrol reported the offramp of northbound SR 41 at Shaw Ave. completely flooded.

Strong Wind, Merced-Madera-Mendota

When: January 5, 6:15 AM PST
Where: Merced-Madera-Mendota forecast zone
Measured: 39 kt (45 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.056, -120.043 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a power line in the middle of the roadway blocking both lanes on Los Olivos Rd. at E. Cardella Rd.

Flood, Mariposa

When: January 5, 6:25 AM PST to 8:25 AM PST
Where: Mariposa County, 2.92 mi SSW of Fish Camp to 2.86 mi SSW of Fish Camp
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.441, -119.649

California Highway Patrol reported debris blocking both lanes on SR 41 at Miami Motorcycle Trail.

Strong Wind, Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra

When: January 5, 6:38 AM PST
Where: Mariposa - Madera Lower Sierra forecast zone
Measured: 39 kt (45 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.400, -119.834 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported a downed tree in the roadway on Jones St. near 7th St. in Mariposa.

High Wind, Tehachapi

When: January 5, 6:40 AM PST
Where: Tehachapi forecast zone
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 35.343, -118.730 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Southern California Edison station at Cummings Valley measured a peak wind gust of 63 mph.

Strong Wind, Fresno - Clovis

When: January 5, 6:44 AM PST
Where: Fresno - Clovis forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 36.758, -119.649 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

California Highway Patrol reported downed power poles and lines in the roadway on Quality Ave. in Sanger.

Flood, Merced

When: January 5, 7:35 AM PST to 9:35 AM PST
Where: Merced County, 5.84 mi ENE of (Mer)castle Afb to 5.9 mi ENE of (Mer)castle Afb
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 37.390, -120.467

California Highway Patrol reported water two feet into the roadway in the northbound lane on G St. near Snelling Rd.

Flood, Kern

When: January 5, 11:07 AM PST to 7:07 PM PST
Where: Kern County, 0.87 mi NNW of Cantil to 1.38 mi SW of Garlock
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 35.311, -117.977

California Highway Patrol reported that Redrock-Randsburg Rd. was closed between SR 14 and Garlock due to flooding.

Strong Wind, South End of the Upper Sierra

When: January 5, 12:00 PM PST to 6:00 PM PST
Where: South End of the Upper Sierra forecast zone
Measured: 48 kt (55 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 35.782, -118.765 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Tulare County Emergency Manager reported two trees down on M99 at milepost 12 south of Johnsondale.

Strong Wind, South End of the Upper Sierra

When: January 5, 12:00 PM PST to 6:00 PM PST
Where: South End of the Upper Sierra forecast zone
Measured: 48 kt (55 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 35.782, -118.765 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

The Tulare County Emergency Manager reported a tree down on M1/M3/Jack Ranch Rd. near Posey.

Debris Flow, Tulare

When: January 5, 12:00 PM PST to 6:00 PM PST
Where: Tulare County, 3.79 mi SW of Springville to 3.41 mi SW of Springville
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 36.098, -118.875

Tulare County Sheriffs reported a small rock slide on Pleasant Oak Dr. near the intersection with SR 190.

Flood, Tulare

When: January 5, 1:33 PM PST to 3:33 PM PST
Where: Tulare County, 0.81 mi WNW of (Vis)visalia Arpt to 0.43 mi NW of (Vis)visalia Arpt
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.325, -119.413

Public report that the right lane of eastbound SR 198 at the SR 99 exchange is completely flooded with 8 feet of water into the lane.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 2:08 PM PST to 4:08 PM PST
Where: Fresno County, 1.71 mi NNE of Pinedale to 1.68 mi NNE of Pinedale
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.853, -119.790

Public report of a road sign and debris washed up on southbound SR 41 at the onramp from Friant Rd.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 2:50 PM PST to 4:50 PM PST
Where: Fresno County, 1.26 mi ESE of Monmouth to 1.3 mi ESE of Monmouth
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.561, -119.710

Public report of the westbound lanes of E. Nebraska Ave were flooded at the S. Minnewawa Ave. exchange.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 3:00 PM PST to 5:00 PM PST
Where: Fresno County, 1.32 mi S of Hammond to 1.01 mi SSE of Hammond
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.751, -119.778

Public report of debris flooded into southbound SR 41 at the SR 180 exchange in Fresno.

Flood, Tulare

When: January 5, 3:01 PM PST to 5:01 PM PST
Where: Tulare County, 0.6 mi ESE of Cinowths Corner to 0.85 mi ESE of Cinowths Corner
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.326, -119.320

Public report of flooding on the eastbound SR 198 offramp onto Mooney Blvd. in Visalia.

Strong Wind, Delano - Wasco - Shafter

When: January 5, 3:04 PM PST to 5:04 PM PST
Where: Delano - Wasco - Shafter forecast zone
Measured: 30 kt (35 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 35.879, -119.115 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Public report of a fallen tree blocking two lanes on southbound SR 99 near the Pond Rd. exchange.

Flood, Tulare

When: January 5, 3:25 PM PST to 5:25 PM PST
Where: Tulare County, Tagus to 1.91 mi E of Tagus
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.270, -119.370

Public report of southbound SR 99 center divider being flooded and spilling into the roadway between the Caldwell Ave. and the Ave. 260 exchanges.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 3:29 PM PST to 5:29 PM PST
Where: Fresno County, 1.83 mi NNW of Calwa to 2.06 mi NW of Calwa
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.702, -119.768

Public report of flooding on northbound SR 99 just south of the Jensen Ave. offramp.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 3:46 PM PST to 5:46 PM PST
Where: Fresno County, 4.27 mi NW of Glorietta to 4.82 mi NW of Glorietta
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.898, -119.718

Public report that a stream his a boulder and water was being directed onto the northbound lane of Auberry Rd. just north of Copper Ave for 2 miles.

Flood, Kern

When: January 5, 4:13 PM PST to 6:13 PM PST
Where: Kern County, 1.12 mi E of Democrat Spgs to 1.1 mi E of Democrat Spgs
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 35.530, -118.650

Public report of a downed tree washed up on SR 178 near where the road splits into four lanes.

Flood, Tulare

When: January 5, 4:24 PM PST to 6:24 PM PST
Where: Tulare County, 0.67 mi SW of Orosi to 0.63 mi SW of Orosi
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.544, -119.290

Public report of flooding at the intersection of Ave. 416 and Rd. 127 in Orosi.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 4:38 PM PST to 6:38 PM PST
Where: Fresno County, 2.37 mi NE of Rolinda to 2.54 mi NE of Rolinda
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.751, -119.936

Public report of flooding at the intersection of Chateau Fresno and W. Belmont Ave.

Flood, Merced

When: January 5, 4:43 PM PST to 6:43 PM PST
Where: Merced County, 0.1 mi ESE of Hilmar to 0.22 mi SE of Hilmar
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.419, -120.848

Public report of flooding east of the intersection of August Ave. and SR 165 in Hilmar with the roadway torn up.

Flood, Tulare

When: January 5, 4:44 PM PST to 6:44 PM PST
Where: Tulare County, 1.57 mi SE of Calgro to 1.24 mi ENE of Dinuba Sequoia Arpt
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.485, -119.279

Public report of Rd. 132 just south of Ave. 384 flooded for two miles.

Flood, Kern

When: January 5, 4:58 PM PST to 6:58 PM PST
Where: Kern County, 5.12 mi SSE of Woody to 5.16 mi SSE of Woody
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 35.630, -118.800

Public report of a boulder in the roadway on Poso Flat Rd. east of the exchange with Granite Rd.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 5:58 PM PST to 7:58 PM PST
Where: Fresno County, 3.6 mi ENE of Dunlap to 3.78 mi ENE of Dunlap
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.750, -119.060

Public report of the westbound lanes of SR 180 having rocks washed up onto the lanes near Snowline Lodge.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 6:14 PM PST to 8:14 PM PST
Where: Fresno County, 2.16 mi NE of Dunlap to 1.98 mi NE of Dunlap
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.750, -119.090

Public report of a rockslide covering the entire westbound lane of SR 180 just west of the Sierra Inn.

Flood, Fresno

When: January 5, 6:19 PM PST to 8:19 PM PST
Where: Fresno County, 3.84 mi ESE of Academy to 3.29 mi ESE of Academy
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.859, -119.466

Public report of flood waters going across Watts Valley Rd.

Flood, Tulare

When: January 5, 7:54 PM PST to 9:54 PM PST
Where: Tulare County, 3.35 mi E of Kaweah to 3.32 mi E of Kaweah
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 36.467, -118.860

Public report of mud, dirt and rocks on the eastbound lanes of SR 198 near the Mineral King Rd. exchange.

Flood, Mariposa

When: January 5, 8:14 PM PST to 10:14 PM PST
Where: Mariposa County, 1.19 mi S of Bagby to 1.44 mi N of Bear Vly
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 37.603, -120.129

Public report of a rockslide blocking northbound lanes of SR 49 a quarter mile south of Bagby.

What these are

Heavy Snow: Snowfall reaching the local warning threshold without the other hazards of a winter storm.
High Wind: Sustained non-thunderstorm winds of 40 mph or more for an hour, or gusts of 58 mph or more.
Strong Wind: Non-thunderstorm winds below high wind criteria that nonetheless caused damage or casualties.
Debris Flow: A fast-moving slurry of mud, rock and debris, usually on a slope soaked by heavy rain or stripped by a fire.
Flood: Flooding that develops more slowly than a flash flood: rivers leaving their banks, or water standing over land for an extended time.

After NWS Directive 10-1605, the rules offices file Storm Data by.

The same day elsewhere

Every storm in California in 2023 Every state in 2023 This day in weather history Warnings in California, January 2023

Sources

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Storm Events Database, compiled from the National Weather Service’s monthly Storm Data. Complete through 2026-06; NCEI adds each month about 75 days after it ends and revises past years a few times a year. Rebuilt 2026-09-24. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 1063326, 1063327, 1063328, 1063329, 1063330, 1063331, 1063332, 1063333, 1063334, 1063366, 1063217, 1063218, 1063219, 1063341, 1063220, 1063339, 1063364, 1063347, 1063346, 1063221, 1063354, 1063367, 1063353, 1063348, 1063357, 1063222, 1063355, 1063356, 1063223, 1063224, 1063360, 1063340, 1063350, 1063361, 1063225, 1063345, 1063226, 1063359, 1063227, 1063362, and more.