Winter Storm and Debris Flow in California, March 1 to 5, 2024

Name: Winter Storm and Debris Flow in California, March 1 to 5, 2024
Start: 2024-03-01T01:47
End: 2024-03-05T23:37
Location: California

March 1 to 5, 2024 · NWS EKA · 96 events in 15 counties and zones

A deep trough brought widespread hail showers and snow to Northwest California. Heavy snow of several feet was measured in the mountains while the hail showers resulted in numerous traffic accidents along the coast.

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it; 70 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: $144,000
Crop damage: None recorded
Events: 96

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 EKA wrote it up.

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 Eureka, CA wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at Feb 29, 2:57 PM PST, 10 hours 50 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Feb 29, 2:57 PM PST, 10 hours 50 minutes before

AREA FORECAST DISCUSSION
National Weather Service Eureka CA
257 PM PST Thu Feb 29 2024

.SYNOPSIS...A strong winter storm will continue to impact the area
this evening with gusty rain showers and small hail along the coast.
Heavy snow will begin to fall along high mountain passes early
Thursday and will continue to drop in elevation through Saturday
morning.

&&

.DISCUSSION...A strong front crossed the area earlier this morning.
The leading edge of the front produced strong winds gusting 50 to 60
mph. The front also contained moderate to heavy rain with 1 to 2
inches of rain observed at higher elevations of Humboldt and Del
Norte over 6 hours. Snow levels so far have mostly stayed above 2500
feet except in Del Norte County where heavy snow of 3 to 6 inches
has been observed at Collier Tunnel on Highway 199.

Behind the front, precipitation has decreased with more isolated
showers. Convective models show shower activity gradually building
over the next 24 hours as the upper level trough pulls in more cold
air aloft and instability increases. Even the already observed
isolated showers have produced small hail along the coast with
persistent wind gusting up to 30 mph. As snow levels fall tonight,
snow is expected to begin accumulating on the high passes of
Highways 36 and 299 in addition to more snow on 199. 8 to 12 inches
is most likely on these high passes by early tomorrow morning. Gusty
rain showers and possible small hail will continue along the coast
overnight. The risk of accumulating small hail will increase as
temperatures cool early Friday morning.

A second cold front will cross the area early tomorrow afternoon.
This front will bring another round of gusty winds, though winds
will most likely remain below 40 mph except on higher ridges. Lake
county will be an exception where gusts up to 45 mph are possible
(40 to 60% chance) at Lake level. Snow levels will continue to
rapidly drop behind this front. Snow levels of 500 to 1000 feet are
most likely by early Saturday morning across the area. This will
bring continued snow of 5 to 14 inches on high passes during the day
tomorrow with similar amounts falling again into Saturday morning. 6
to 12 inches of snow is most likely on valley bottoms in Trinity and
on high passes of Highway 101 and 20 through early Saturday morning.
Saturday also holds the greatest potential for dangerous small hail
along the coast which can create unexpected and dangerous
conditions. The most recent models have pulled moisture through
Sunday, continuing the risk of light snow and hail into Sunday
morning. /JHW

&&

.AVIATION...A significant storm system brought a plethora of flight hazards to
the TAF sites overnight-morning. Flight hazards included: strong
gusty S-WSW surface winds, LLWS, and MVFR-IFR Cig/Vis...especially
during periods of moderate-heavy rainfall (snowfall over the highest
inland mountains). Tafs will be more of a challenge during the
remainder of the period due to persistent weather changes associated
with post-frontal weather activity. There will be periods of weather
improvement through afternoon. However, post frontal convection, as
noted on a noonday Vis Satellite picture, will bring showers and
possible thunderstorms with small hail to the coastal region through
evening. Another secondary system will move across the area early
Friday, bringing another bout of significant flight hazards across
NorthWest California. /TA

&&

.MARINE...A cold front has passed and strong southerlies have
subsided to below gale force conditions. WSW winds will remain
strong today into Friday, with localized gusts of up to 30 kts.
Showers and convection today will continue Friday and into the
weekend, bringing gusty winds, isolated thunder, small hail, and
isolated waterspouts. Friday morning and Saturday are expected to
see the strongest convection. Isolated gale force gusts of up to 40
kts are possible in these showers. Winds will begin to ease
slightly Saturday night into the weekend.

Large wind waves are diminishing after the frontal passage today,
through they will continue to remain steep tonight into tomorrow as
strong winds continue. This will combine with an incoming large WNW
swell that is expected to elevated combined wave heights to up to 20
feet. Steep and hazardous seas are expected to continue through the
weekend.

&&

.EKA WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
CA...
     Winter Weather Advisory from 10 PM this evening to 4 PM PST
     Saturday for CAZ101-103.

     Winter Storm Warning until 10 AM PST Sunday for CAZ102-
     105>108.

     Winter Weather Advisory until 10 PM PST Friday for CAZ104.

     Winter Storm Warning from 10 PM Friday to 4 AM PST Sunday
     for CAZ104-113-115.

     Winter Weather Advisory from 10 PM Friday to 4 PM PST
     Saturday for CAZ109.

     Winter Storm Warning from 10 PM Friday to 4 PM PST Saturday
     for CAZ110.

     Winter Storm Warning until 10 AM PST Sunday for CAZ111-114.

     Wind Advisory from 1 PM Friday to 4 AM PST Saturday for
     CAZ115.

NORTHWEST CALIFORNIA COASTAL WATERS...
     Hazardous Seas Warning until 3 PM PST this afternoon for
     PZZ450-475.

     Hazardous Seas Warning from 9 AM to 9 PM PST Friday for
     PZZ450-455-475.

     Small Craft Advisory until 9 AM PST Friday for PZZ450-475.

     Small Craft Advisory until 9 AM PST Friday for PZZ455.

     Hazardous Seas Warning until 9 PM PST Friday for PZZ470.

&&

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For forecast zone information
see the forecast zone map online:
https://www.weather.gov/images/eka/zonemap.png

In the hours before

Local storm report, Feb 29, 9:13 PM PST, 4 hours 34 minutes before

Preliminary Local Storm Report
National Weather Service Eureka CA
913 PM PST Thu Feb 29 2024

..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...
..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
            ..REMARKS..

0855 PM     Tstm Wnd Dmg     4 NW Smith River        41.97N 124.20W
02/29/2024                   Del Norte          CA   Law Enforcement

            Tree in roadway with three branches blocking
            both lanes.

&&

JMM

The radar

The Eureka (Bunker Hill) radar (KBHX), 39 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 16:49 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

34 winter weather, 27 high wind, 20 heavy rain, 11 winter storm, 2 thunderstorm wind, 1 debris flow, 1 flood. Local standard time, as filed.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 1, 1:47 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Property damage: $300
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Small hail accumulation on HWY 101, 5 miles north of Trinidad CA. A vehicle was reported to be off of the road. LAT. 41.14N, LONG. -124.14W.

Winter Storm, Southern Trinity

When: March 1, 7:00 AM PST to 7:42 PM PST
Where: Southern Trinity forecast zone
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.651, -123.113 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

A trained spotter reported measuring a total of 9 inches of snow at 3099 feet, 2 miles WNW of Ruth, CA. LAT. 40.29N, LONG. 123.44W.

Winter Weather, Southwestern Humboldt

When: March 1, 7:15 AM PST
Where: Southwestern Humboldt forecast zone
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Small Hail (0.25 estimated) reported 3 miles North of Ettersburg, CA. Lat. 40.17N, Long. -123.99W.

Heavy Rain, Del Norte

When: March 1, 8:52 AM PST
Where: Del Norte County, 6.78 mi ENE of Gasquet
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 41.874, -123.842

Rock slide into both lanes of hwy 199, 6 miles E of Gasquet, CA.

High Wind, Mendocino Coast

When: March 1, 8:53 AM PST
Where: Mendocino Coast forecast zone
Measured: 36 kt (41 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Law enforement reported Non-Thunderstorm associated wind damamge 1 NNE Fort Bragg, CA. Lat. 39.45N, Long. -123.80W.

Heavy Rain, Mendocino

When: March 1, 1:19 PM PST
Where: Mendocino County, 3.67 mi SSE of Piercy
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 39.933, -123.769

Rocks have flowed and tubled onto both sides of the HWY 101, 4 miles north of Leggett, CA. LAT. 39.92N, LONG. 123.77W.

Winter Weather, Coastal Del Norte

When: March 1, 1:38 PM PST
Where: Coastal Del Norte forecast zone
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 41.745, -123.958 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

CoCoRaHS reports heavy hail 1mile southeast of the Smith River. |LAT. 41.92N, -124.14W.

Heavy Rain, Mendocino

When: March 1, 1:41 PM PST
Where: Mendocino County, 3.98 mi W of Navarro
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 39.157, -123.604

Law Enforcement reported a Landslide 9 miles WSW of Comptche, CA blocking one lane of HWY 128. LAT. 39.20N, LONG. -123.75W.

High Wind, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 1, 2:39 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Measured: 30 kt (35 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Utility Company reports outage from Non-thunderstorm associated winds. Approximately 1 mile northeast of Orick, CA. LAT. 41.29N, LONG. -124.06W.

High Wind, Coastal Del Norte

When: March 1, 3:13 PM PST
Where: Coastal Del Norte forecast zone
Measured: 66 kt (76 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.745, -123.958 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Tree down across two lanes due to Non-Thunderstorm Wnd Dmg 2 miles WNW of Crescent City. LAT. 41.76N, LONG. -124.23W.

Winter Storm, Northern Humboldt Interior

When: March 1, 3:29 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Reported by: County Official
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Snow accumulation of about 7 inches made by a county official 5 miles west northwest of Willow Creek, CA. LAT. 40.90N, LONG. -123.77W.

Winter Storm, Northern Humboldt Interior

When: March 1, 3:30 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Reported by: County Official
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

County official estimated about 8 inches of snow at 1800 feet near Bair road, 8 miles east northeast of Blue Lake. LAT. 40.93N, LONG. -123.84W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 1, 3:32 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Thunderstorm activity including hail, lightning and heavy downpours reported near Humboldt Hill from facebook. LAT. 40.72N, LONG. -124.19W.

High Wind, Northern Humboldt Interior

When: March 1, 3:34 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Measured: 26 kt (30 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Non-Thunderstorm associated wind damage associated outage being reported by Utility Company with 1600 people affected around, Hoopa, CA. LAT. 41.05N, LONG. -123.68W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 1, 3:37 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail reported by CoCoRaHS 1 mile north northwest of Cutten, CA. |LAT. 40.78N, LONG. -124.15W.

High Wind, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 1, 3:40 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Measured: 30 kt (35 mph) measured gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Utility company reports outage for 576 customers from Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage 5 miles north of Trinidad, CA. LAT. 41.13N, LONG. -124.15W.

Thunderstorm Wind, Humboldt

When: March 1, 3:43 PM PST
Where: Humboldt County, 0.52 mi W of Trinidad to 0.51 mi W of Trinidad
Measured: 30 kt (35 mph) measured gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.070, -124.140

Thunderstorm Wind Damage reported by law enforcement 1 mile North of Trinidad, CA. Downed power line. Tree on fire. LAT. 41.07N, LONG. -124.14W.

High Wind, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 1, 3:46 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Measured: 27 kt (31 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

A Non-Thunderstorm Wind gust brought down a tree which crossed the road, hindering passage 2 miles northeast of Orick, CA. LAT. 41.30N, LONG. -124.05W.

High Wind, Southern Humboldt Interior

When: March 1, 3:50 PM PST
Where: Southern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Measured: 37 kt (43 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

High wind damage reported by uitility company, outage affecting 1,144 people. Ocurred 1 mile north northwest of Miranda. LAT. 40.25N, LONG. -123.83W.

Winter Storm, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 1, 3:54 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

A member of the public estimated 8 inches of snow at bald hills road at 1700 feet, 3 miles east of Orick, CA. LAT. 41.28N, LONG. -124.00W.

Thunderstorm Wind, Humboldt

When: March 1, 4:03 PM PST
Where: Humboldt County, 1.05 mi E of Fernbridge to 1.1 mi E of Fernbridge
Measured: 32 kt (37 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.620, -124.180

A thunderstorm oriented Wind Gusts caused Damage to a powerline approximately 1 mile east northeast of Fernbridge, CA. LAT. 40.62N, LONG. -124.18W.

High Wind, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 1, 4:23 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Measured: 30 kt (35 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

PG&E reported Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage about 1 mile southwest of Fieldbrook. Power outage for 1-49 customers. LAT. 40.96N, LONG. 124.04W.

High Wind, Mendocino Coast

When: March 1, 4:29 PM PST
Where: Mendocino Coast forecast zone
Measured: 29 kt (33 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

PG&E reported a power outage due to high winds not associated with thunderstorms, resulting in outage for 256 customers. LAT. 38.95N, LONG. -123.70W.

High Wind, Southwestern Humboldt

When: March 1, 4:54 PM PST
Where: Southwestern Humboldt forecast zone
Measured: 25 kt (29 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

A tree landed on a vehicle near Redway, CA. Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage as reported. LAT. 40.12N, LONG. -123.82W.

High Wind, Northwestern Mendocino Interior

When: March 1, 6:30 PM PST
Where: Northwestern Mendocino Interior forecast zone
Measured: 25 kt (29 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Utility company reports 220 customers without power due to Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage 4 miles north northwest of Willits, CA. LAT. 39.46N, LONG. 123.38W.

High Wind, Southwestern Mendocino Interior

When: March 1, 6:31 PM PST
Where: Southwestern Mendocino Interior forecast zone
Measured: 30 kt (35 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $2,000
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

A tree landed on a car as reported by public about 4 miles NNW of Willits, CA. |LAT. 39.45N, LONG. 123.38W.

High Wind, Northwestern Mendocino Interior

When: March 1, 6:43 PM PST
Where: Northwestern Mendocino Interior forecast zone
Measured: 28 kt (32 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $250
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Tree limbs down across the road as reported by law enforcement 5 miles south of Covelo, CA. LAT. 39.73N, LONG. 123.25W.

High Wind, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 1, 7:50 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Measured: 42 kt (48 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

PG&E reported an outage for 1,431 customers due to Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage, 1 mile SSE of Eureka, CA. LAT. 40.79N, LONG. 124.15W.

High Wind, Mendocino Coast

When: March 1, 8:01 PM PST
Where: Mendocino Coast forecast zone
Measured: 26 kt (30 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Utility reported 98 customers without power due to Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage 5 miles west of Philo, CA. LAT. 39.08N, LONG. -123.52W.

High Wind, Southern Lake County

When: March 1, 8:44 PM PST
Where: Southern Lake County forecast zone
Measured: 27 kt (31 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company

Utility company reports outage for 98 customers due to Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage 4 miles west northwest of Loch Lomond, CA. LONG. 38.89N, LONG. -122.78W.

Heavy Rain, Humboldt

When: March 1, 8:47 PM PST
Where: Humboldt County, 2.95 mi SSE of Hoopa to 3.17 mi SSE of Hoopa
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.010, -123.650

Rocks in both lanes 3 miles south southeast of Hoopa, CA. LAT. 41.01N, LONG. 123.65W.

High Wind, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 1, 9:26 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Measured: 33 kt (38 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

PG&E reports 94 customers without power due to Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage near Westhaven-Moonstone, CA. LAT. 41.04N, LONG. -124.10W.

High Wind, Southwestern Mendocino Interior

When: March 1, 9:41 PM PST
Where: Southwestern Mendocino Interior forecast zone
Measured: 28 kt (32 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Tree down across both lanes as reported by law enforcement, 7 miles west southwest of Willits, CA. LAT. 39.38N, LONG. 123.49W.

High Wind, Mendocino Coast

When: March 1, 9:59 PM PST
Where: Mendocino Coast forecast zone
Measured: 32 kt (37 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

PG&E reported outage for 106 customers due to Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage around Gualala, CA. LAT. 38.77N, LONG. -123.53W.

Winter Weather, Southwestern Humboldt

When: March 1, 11:15 PM PST
Where: Southwestern Humboldt forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail reported near a car accident in or around Scotia, CA. |LAT. 40.48N, LONG. 124.10W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 2, 12:00 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail reported 1 mile southwest of Fieldbrook, CA. LAT. 40.96N, LONG. 124.04W.

Winter Weather, Mendocino Coast

When: March 2, 12:20 AM PST
Where: Mendocino Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail reported by the public 2 miles east of Fort Bragg, CA. LAT. 39.45N, LONG. 123.76W.

Winter Weather, Mendocino Coast

When: March 2, 12:25 AM PST
Where: Mendocino Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail reported by public 2 miles east of Fort Bragg LAT. 39.45N, LONG. -123.76W.

Heavy Rain, Humboldt

When: March 2, 12:58 AM PST
Where: Humboldt County, 3.04 mi SSE of Hoopa
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 41.013, -123.638

Landslide reported 1 mile south of Hoopa, closing hwy 96. LAT. 41.04N, LONG. -123.67W.

High Wind, Mendocino Coast

When: March 2, 2:03 AM PST
Where: Mendocino Coast forecast zone
Measured: 32 kt (37 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Tree blocking hwy 1, north of ten mile river. Law enforcement reported Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage 9 miles north northeast of Fort Bragg, CA. LAT. 39.57N, LONG. -123.77W.

High Wind, Mendocino Coast

When: March 2, 2:14 AM PST
Where: Mendocino Coast forecast zone
Measured: 35 kt (40 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Tree down across two lanes due to Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage, 2 miles north of Fort Bragg, CA. LAT. 39.48N, LONG. -123.80W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 2, 3:48 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

CoCoRaHS reported hail 1 mile north northwest of Blue Lake, CA. |LAT. 40.90N, LONG. -124.00W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 2, 4:30 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail reported by law enforcement accumulating at the cross section of hwys' 101 and 299, 2 miles north of Arcata, CA. LAT. 40.90N 124.08W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 2, 4:30 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail reported by the public 1 mile east northeast of Bayview, CA.|LAT. 40.76N, LONG. -124.16W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 2, 6:53 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Small hail reported 2 miles west southwest of Orick, CA. Hail accumulated up to an inch with a single vehicle accident in the vicinity. LAT. 41.27N, LONG. -124.10W.

Winter Storm, Northern Humboldt Interior

When: March 2, 7:15 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Chp reports an accumulation of 12 inches of snow at the junction of 299 and Titlow hill, 5 miles west northwest of Willow Creek, CA. LAT. 40.90N, LONG. -123.77W.

Winter Weather, Northwestern Mendocino Interior

When: March 2, 8:04 AM PST
Where: Northwestern Mendocino Interior forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Highway 101 closed in 2 lanes due to snow 2 miles southeast of Willits, CA. |LAT. 39.38N, LONG. -123.33W.

Debris Flow, Del Norte

When: March 2, 8:14 AM PST
Where: Del Norte County, 5.7 mi E of Gasquet to 5.78 mi E of Gasquet
Cause: Heavy Rain
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.860, -123.860

Landslide covering hwy 199 reported 6 miles east of Gasquet, CA. |LAT. 41.86N, LONG. -123.86W.

Winter Weather, Southern Humboldt Interior

When: March 2, 8:56 AM PST
Where: Southern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Snow reported by public 3 miles southeast of Kneeland, CA. LAT. 40.72N, LONG. 123.94W.

Winter Weather, Southern Humboldt Interior

When: March 2, 9:13 AM PST
Where: Southern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Snow accumulation of 3 inches, 8 miles east northeast of Dinsmore, CA. |LAT. 40.45N, LONG. -123.46W.

Heavy Rain, Trinity

When: March 2, 1:52 PM PST
Where: Trinity County, 0.89 mi NE of Big Bar
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 40.738, -123.237

Landslide blocking 1 lane of hwy 299 1 mile north northeast of Big Bar, CA. LAT. 40.74N, LONG. -123.25W.

Winter Storm, Northern Humboldt Interior

When: March 2, 3:12 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Property damage: $300
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Vehicle is stuck in the snow, about 5 inches reported by law enforcement, 10 miles west southwest of Weitchpec, CA. LAT. 41.15N, LONG. -123.89W.

Heavy Rain, Trinity

When: March 2, 3:43 PM PST
Where: Trinity County, 1.61 mi ESE of Helena
Reported by: Department of Highways
Coordinates: 40.763, -123.101

A landslide blocking the westbount lane of the 299 2 miles east of Helena, CA. LAT. 40.77N, LONG. -123.09W.

Winter Storm, Southern Humboldt Interior

When: March 2, 3:53 PM PST
Where: Southern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Law enforcement reported 10 inches 5 miles southwest of Dinsmore, CA with chain requirements issued. LAT. 40.44N, LONG. -123.67W.

Winter Storm, Southern Trinity

When: March 2, 5:00 PM PST
Where: Southern Trinity forecast zone
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.651, -123.113 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Trained spotter estimated 16 inches of snow at 3000 feet, 2 miles west northwest of Ruth, CA. LAT. 40.29N, LONG. -123.44W.

Winter Storm, Southern Humboldt Interior

When: March 2, 5:30 PM PST
Where: Southern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Trained spotter reported an estimate of 11 inches of snow at 2700 feet, 4 miles west southwest of Dinsmore, CA. LAT. 40.47N, LONG. -123.67W.

Heavy Rain, Trinity

When: March 2, 7:30 PM PST
Where: Trinity County, 1.25 mi WNW of Del Loma to 1.25 mi NW of Del Loma
Property damage: $4,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.790, -123.350

Large rocks across the roadway as reported by law enforcment, 1 mile west northwest of Del Loma, CA. LAT. 40.79N, LONG. -123.35W.

High Wind, Mendocino Coast

When: March 2, 7:38 PM PST
Where: Mendocino Coast forecast zone
Measured: 29 kt (33 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Law Enforcement reported a downed tree from Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage 10 miles west of Comptche, CA. LAT. 39.24N, LONG. -123.78W.

High Wind, Southern Trinity

When: March 2, 8:09 PM PST
Where: Southern Trinity forecast zone
Measured: 25 kt (29 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.651, -123.113 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Law enforcment reported a tree down in the southbound lane due to Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage, 4 miles southwest of Douglas City, CA. LAT. 40.61N, LONG. -122.99W.

High Wind, Southern Humboldt Interior

When: March 2, 8:25 PM PST
Where: Southern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Measured: 40 kt (46 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Law enforcement reports lines down across the road due to Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage, 5 southwest of Alderpoint, CA. LAT. 40.12N, LONG. -123.67W.

Heavy Rain, Lake

When: March 2, 10:25 PM PST
Where: Lake County, 3.82 mi E of Finley to 3.61 mi E of Finley
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.010, -122.800

Landslide reported by law enforcement at Soda Bay. LAT. 39.01N, LONG. -122.80W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 1:28 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail reported about 0.25 inch size in Trinidad, CA. with accumulation. |LAT. 41.06N, LONG. -124.14W.

Heavy Rain, Trinity

When: March 3, 7:23 AM PST
Where: Trinity County, 2.62 mi E of Helena to 2.52 mi E of Helena
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.770, -123.080

Partial slide block the road about 2 miles east of Helena, CA.|LAT. 40.77N, LONG. -123.08W.

Heavy Rain, Mendocino

When: March 3, 8:56 AM PST
Where: Mendocino County, 4.18 mi N of Potter Vly to 4.09 mi N of Potter Vly
Property damage: $4,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.380, -123.110

Debris flow with trees and rocks reported by law enforcement 4 miles north of Potter Valley, CA. LAT. 39.38N, 123.11W.

Heavy Rain, Mendocino

When: March 3, 9:25 AM PST
Where: Mendocino County, 3.45 mi S of Irmulco to 3.49 mi S of Irmulco
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.370, -123.500

Law enforcement reporting trees and rocks across roadway 8 miles west southwest of Willits, CA. LAT. 39.37N, LONG. -123.50W.

Heavy Rain, Mendocino

When: March 3, 10:08 AM PST
Where: Mendocino County, 2.24 mi ESE of Dos Rios to 2.05 mi ESE of Dos Rios
Property damage: $4,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.710, -123.310

Landslide across both lanes 3 miles east southeast of Dos Rios, CA.|LAT. 39.71N, LONG. -123.31W.

High Wind, Southwestern Humboldt

When: March 3, 10:10 AM PST
Where: Southwestern Humboldt forecast zone
Measured: 25 kt (29 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Trees reported down on the road by law enforcement from Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage 1 mile west northwest of Briceland, CA. LAT. 40.10N, LONG. -123.92W.

High Wind, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 10:42 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Measured: 25 kt (29 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Utility Company
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

PG&E reported 150 customers without power due to Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage, 2 miles southeast of Kneeland, CA. LAT. 40.73N, LONG. -123.95W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 10:55 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

NWS employee reports hail 1 mile north of Eureka, CA. LAT. 40.81N, LONG. -124.16W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 11:00 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: NWS Employee
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail accumulating in Arcata. LAT. 40.87N, LONG. -124.09W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 11:07 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Collision reported by law enforcement 1 mile south of McKinleyville, CA. |LAT. 40.92N, LONG. -124.10W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 11:07 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail measured to be 3/8 inch 1 miles southeast of Eureka, CA.|LAT. 40.79N, LONG. -124.15W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 11:10 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Property damage: $200
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Small hail reported to be accumulating and a vehicle crashed into road sign near or around Arcata, CA. LAT. 40.87N, LONG. -124.08W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 11:13 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail reported in addition to vehicle sliding into guard rails off the road.|LAT. 40.87N, LONG. 124.08W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 11:14 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail accumulation 1 mile north northwest of Cutten, CA.|LAT. 40.78N, LONG. -124.14W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 11:15 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail accumulating and measured 0.375 inches, 1 mile north northwest of Blue Lake, CA. LAT. 40.89N, LONG. -123.99W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 11:20 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail accumulated up to 1/2 inch deep with sizes around 0.375 inches at their largest. This occured 3 miles to the northeast of Freshwater, CA. LAT. 40.80N, LONG. -124.04W.

Winter Storm, Southern Trinity

When: March 3, 11:28 AM PST
Where: Southern Trinity forecast zone
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.651, -123.113 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Social media reports over 3 feet of snow measured 36 inches 4 miles east of Ruth, CA. |LAT. 40.29N, LONG. 123.33W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 11:34 AM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Accumulated hail on the road with vehicle collision about 2 miles north of Arcata, CA.|LAT. 40.90N, LONG. -124.08W.

Winter Weather, Northwestern Mendocino Interior

When: March 3, 12:23 PM PST
Where: Northwestern Mendocino Interior forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Mixed precipiation reported 2 miles east northeast of Calpella, CA. Vehicle with a trailor in tow, slid off of the roadway. LAT. 39.24N, LONG. -123.17W.

Winter Weather, Southern Lake County

When: March 3, 12:30 PM PST
Where: Southern Lake County forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement

Mixed precipitation reported with a vehicle sliding off of the road and down an enbankment or hill, 1 mile southeast of Kelseyville, CA. |LAT. 38.94N, LONG. -122.81W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Interior

When: March 3, 12:44 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Cars stuck in a ditch 3 miles northwest of Willow Creek, CA. |LAT. 40.91N, LONG. -123.71W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 1:01 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Heavy hail shower reported by spotter H163, 1 mile northwest of Fortuna, CA.|LAT. 40.60N, LONG. -124.15W.

High Wind, Northwestern Mendocino Interior

When: March 3, 2:00 PM PST
Where: Northwestern Mendocino Interior forecast zone
Measured: 25 kt (29 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.434, -123.432 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

One lane of the bridge at Haehl Creek is closed,|10-129R to Route 101 S/Route 20 Separation|10-0128L due to Non-Thunderstorm Wind Damage 2 miles southeast of Willits, CA. LAT. 39.38N, LONG. -123.33W.

Winter Weather, Southern Humboldt Interior

When: March 3, 4:31 PM PST
Where: Southern Humboldt Interior forecast zone
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Tree down across the road about 7 miles east of Benbow, CA.|LAT. 40.05N, LONG. -123.64W.

Heavy Rain, Humboldt

When: March 3, 4:59 PM PST
Where: Humboldt County, 3.49 mi S of Orick to 3.48 mi SSW of Orick
Property damage: $4,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.230, -124.080

Debris flow blocking both norht and south lanes of traffic about 3 miles south southwest of Orick, CA. LAT. 41.23N, LONG. -124.08W.

Winter Storm, Southern Trinity

When: March 3, 5:00 PM PST
Where: Southern Trinity forecast zone
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 40.651, -123.113 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

A heavy snow ov about 14 inches over a 24 hour period, about 2 miles west northwest of Ruth, CA. LONG. 40.29N, LONG. -123.44W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 7:24 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail covering the ground 3 miles northeast of Freshwater, CA. |LAT. 40.80N, LONG. -124.04W.

Heavy Rain, Trinity

When: March 3, 7:35 PM PST
Where: Trinity County, 3.22 mi ENE of Big Bar to 3.24 mi E of Big Bar
Property damage: $4,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.740, -123.190

Rocks and debris are in both lanes, blocking the westbound lane completely, 3 miles east of Big Bar, CA. LAT. 40.74N, LONG. -123.19W.

Heavy Rain, Trinity

When: March 3, 8:09 PM PST
Where: Trinity County, 0.52 mi E of Douglas City to 0.5 mi E of Douglas City
Property damage: $4,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.650, -122.940

Landslide blocking the eastbound lane with mud and rocks in both lanes, 1 mile east of Douglas City, CA. LAT. 40.65N, LONG. -122.94W.

Winter Weather, Northern Humboldt Coast

When: March 3, 9:46 PM PST
Where: Northern Humboldt Coast forecast zone
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.705, -123.916 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Hail accumulated covering the road with a vehicle sliding off the side, 1 mile northeast of Orick, CA. LAT. 41.29N, LONG. -124.06W.

Heavy Rain, Mendocino

When: March 5, 8:03 AM PST
Where: Mendocino County, 4.87 mi S of Irmulco to 4.85 mi S of Irmulco
Property damage: $4,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 39.350, -123.510

Highway 20 covered with mud and rocks 7 miles northeast of Comptche, CA.|LAT. 39.35N, LONG. -123.51W.

Heavy Rain, Del Norte

When: March 5, 8:39 AM PST
Where: Del Norte County, 5.7 mi E of Gasquet to 5.81 mi E of Gasquet
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 41.860, -123.860

Rocks over the road 6 miles east of Gasquet, Ca.|LAT. 41.86N, LONG. -123.86W.

Heavy Rain, Trinity

When: March 5, 11:40 AM PST
Where: Trinity County, 4.67 mi SW of Douglas City to 4.66 mi SW of Douglas City
Property damage: $4,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.600, -123.010

Boulder the size of a vehicle on the road 5 miles southwest of Douglas City, CA.|LAT. 40.60N, LONG. -123.01W.

Flood, Humboldt

When: March 5, 12:49 PM PST
Where: Humboldt County, 0.87 mi SE of Shively to 1.06 mi SSE of Shively
Cause: Heavy Rain
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.420, -123.960

Highway 254 flooded, Avenue of the Giants. Law enforcement reported 1 mile south southeast of Shively, CA. LAT. 40.42N, LONG. -123.96W.

Heavy Rain, Humboldt

When: March 5, 11:37 PM PST
Where: Humboldt County, 2.1 mi SE of Scotia to 2.16 mi SE of Scotia
Property damage: $1,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 40.460, -124.070

A slide is blocking most of hwy 101, 2 miles southeast of Scotia, CA.|LAT. 40.46N, LONG. -124.07W.

What these are

Winter Weather: Snow, sleet or freezing rain below warning levels that still caused disruption, damage or casualties.
Winter Storm: A storm that brought snow, sleet or freezing rain at warning levels, usually over several hours or days.
Heavy Rain: Rainfall totals unusual for the place and season that did not produce a flood.
High Wind: Sustained non-thunderstorm winds of 40 mph or more for an hour, or gusts of 58 mph or more.
Thunderstorm Wind: Winds from a thunderstorm of 50 knots (58 mph) or more, or lower winds that caused damage or casualties. Measured gusts are marked MG, estimated EG.
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 2024 Every state in 2024 This day in weather history Warnings in California, March 2024

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: 1174531, 1175147, 1174593, 1176209, 1174693, 1176211, 1174708, 1176205, 1174715, 1174726, 1175328, 1175329, 1174946, 1174729, 1174778, 1175142, 1174774, 1174789, 1175141, 1175330, 1174790, 1175139, 1175140, 1175144, 1175304, 1175145, 1175270, 1175164, 1175276, 1175312, 1175271, 1175274, 1175323, 1175324, 1175327, 1176166, 1175821, 1176124, 1176206, 1175332, and more.