N※N

Travel advisory impacting millions on West Coast extended

Travel Advisory Issued for Millions on West Coast Amid Severe Flooding in San Francisco and California

In a stark warning to residents and travelers alike, authorities have issued a comprehensive travel advisory affecting millions along the West Coast, with particular emphasis on the San Francisco Bay Area and broader regions of California. The advisory comes in response to relentless heavy rainfall and flooding that have battered the state, transforming bustling urban centers and scenic coastal highways into hazardous zones. As atmospheric rivers continue to unleash torrents of precipitation, officials are urging caution, preparation, and in some cases, outright avoidance of travel to prevent loss of life and property damage.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has been at the forefront of these alerts, forecasting what they describe as "life-threatening" flood conditions across Northern and Central California. San Francisco, often romanticized for its foggy vistas and iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, is now grappling with submerged streets, overflowing sewers, and disrupted public transportation. The advisory extends from the Oregon border down through the Central Valley and into parts of Southern California, impacting an estimated 20 million people in densely populated areas. This isn't just a minor inconvenience; it's a full-scale weather event that has already led to road closures, flight cancellations, and emergency declarations in multiple counties.

At the heart of this crisis is a powerful atmospheric river—a narrow corridor of concentrated moisture in the atmosphere that can dump inches of rain in a matter of hours. Originating from the Pacific Ocean, these systems have been fueled by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures, a phenomenon exacerbated by climate change. In recent days, San Francisco has seen rainfall totals exceeding 5 inches in some neighborhoods, with forecasts predicting an additional 3 to 6 inches over the next 48 hours. This deluge has overwhelmed drainage systems designed for more moderate weather, leading to flash floods that can rise rapidly and catch even seasoned locals off guard.

Travelers heading to or from major hubs like San Francisco International Airport (SFO) are facing significant disruptions. Airlines have reported delays and cancellations, with runways at times resembling shallow lakes rather than tarmacs. The advisory specifically recommends checking flight statuses and considering alternative routes or postponing non-essential trips. For those on the roads, highways such as U.S. Route 101 and Interstate 80 have seen sections closed due to mudslides and flooding. In one particularly dramatic incident, a portion of the Pacific Coast Highway near Big Sur was washed out, stranding motorists and requiring helicopter rescues. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has mobilized crews to clear debris, but officials warn that conditions could deteriorate further with ongoing rain.

Beyond San Francisco, the impacts ripple across the West Coast. In the Sacramento Valley, rivers like the Russian and Sacramento are swelling to dangerous levels, prompting flood watches and warnings. Communities in Sonoma and Napa counties, still recovering from previous wildfire seasons, now face a watery onslaught that threatens vineyards and residential areas. Evacuation orders have been issued in low-lying regions, with shelters opening up in schools and community centers. The advisory emphasizes the risks to vulnerable populations, including the elderly, families with young children, and those in mobile homes, who may not have the resources to relocate quickly.

Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency for several counties, unlocking federal aid and resources to bolster response efforts. "We're dealing with a one-two punch of heavy rain and saturated soils," Newsom stated in a press conference, highlighting how the ground, already waterlogged from earlier storms, can't absorb more moisture. This leads to runoff that exacerbates flooding in urban areas. Emergency management teams are distributing sandbags, setting up flood barriers, and monitoring levees that protect cities like Stockton and Modesto. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is also involved, providing guidance on flood insurance claims and recovery assistance for those affected.

The human toll of these floods is already evident. In San Francisco's Mission District, residents have reported water seeping into basements and first-floor apartments, forcing some to wade through knee-deep water to salvage belongings. One local business owner, Maria Gonzalez, shared her ordeal: "I've lived here for 20 years, and I've never seen anything like this. My shop is ruined, and with the advisory in place, customers can't even get here." Stories like Gonzalez's underscore the economic ramifications, with preliminary estimates suggesting billions in damages to infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism. California's economy, heavily reliant on tech in the Bay Area and agriculture in the Central Valley, could see ripple effects lasting months.

Historically, California has no stranger to such events. The state endured devastating floods in the winter of 2022-2023, when atmospheric rivers caused widespread destruction, including the breaching of levees and the displacement of thousands. Climate experts point to a pattern: as global temperatures rise, these moisture-laden storms are becoming more intense and frequent. The current advisory draws parallels to those past events, with meteorologists warning that this could be one of the wettest winters on record. Data from the NWS indicates that San Francisco's rainfall this season is already 150% above average, contributing to swollen reservoirs that, while beneficial for drought relief, pose overflow risks.

For those planning travel, the advisory provides specific recommendations. Avoid driving through flooded areas, as even shallow water can sweep vehicles away— a leading cause of flood-related deaths. Stock up on essentials like non-perishable food, water, batteries, and medications in case of power outages, which have already affected tens of thousands in the region. Utility companies like Pacific Gas and Electric are working around the clock to restore service, but downed lines and flooded substations complicate efforts.

Public transportation in San Francisco has been hit hard, with BART trains delayed and Muni buses rerouted. Ferry services across the bay are suspended due to high winds and rough waters. Tourists, drawn to attractions like Alcatraz Island or Fisherman's Wharf, are advised to reschedule visits. The advisory extends to outdoor enthusiasts: hiking trails in national parks like Yosemite are treacherous with slippery paths and potential landslides.

Looking ahead, forecasters predict a brief respite mid-week, but another atmospheric river could approach by the weekend, prolonging the threat. The NWS urges residents to sign up for emergency alerts via apps or text services to stay informed. Community resilience is key, with neighborhood groups organizing mutual aid to check on isolated individuals.

This travel advisory serves as a sobering reminder of nature's power in an era of climate variability. While California is equipped with advanced warning systems and infrastructure, the sheer volume of rain tests even the most prepared. For millions on the West Coast, the message is clear: heed the warnings, stay safe, and prepare for what could be an extended period of wet weather. As the floods recede, the focus will shift to recovery, but for now, caution remains the watchword.

In coastal communities like Monterey and Santa Cruz, the advisory highlights risks from high surf and coastal erosion. Waves reaching 20 feet have battered seawalls, leading to beach closures and warnings for boaters. Fishermen and surfers are particularly at risk, with rip currents amplified by the storms. The U.S. Coast Guard has increased patrols, ready for search-and-rescue operations.

Education plays a role too. Schools in affected areas have shifted to remote learning, ensuring student safety while parents navigate flooded commutes. Environmental impacts are notable: runoff carries pollutants into the San Francisco Bay, threatening marine life and water quality. Conservationists are monitoring for long-term effects on ecosystems already stressed by drought and fires.

Economically, the tourism sector, a lifeline for San Francisco, faces setbacks. Hotels report cancellations, and events like conferences are postponed. Small businesses, from cafes in Haight-Ashbury to tech startups in SoMa, are adapting with remote work, but the advisory's duration could strain finances.

Ultimately, this event underscores the need for infrastructure investment. Calls for upgraded storm drains, reinforced levees, and sustainable urban planning are growing louder. As California weathers this storm, the advisory not only saves lives but also prompts reflection on adapting to a changing climate.

(Word count: 1,128)

Read the Full Newsweek Article at:
[ https://www.newsweek.com/travel-advisory-millions-west-coast-san-francisco-california-floods-2102386 ]