What is an Atmospheric River? Second atmospheric river makes landfall, severe rain and wind expected

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Monday, February 5, 2024
Atmospheric River: Second atmospheric river makes landfall
A second atmospheric river has arrived in Central California on Sunday.

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A second atmospheric river has arrived in Central California. Stay with ABC30 for live updates.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 3

8:00 p.m. At the time of this writing: 81 Tulare County and 2318 Kern County residents are currently without power, according to the Southern California Edison outage map. 3,450 Merced County and 1833 Madera County residents are currently without power, according to PG&E's outage map.

An evacuation warning is still in place in Madera County for the area of Cavin Lane, Mattie Fhy Road and Holly Lane. Officials say the warning is due to potential high rainfall from the incoming atmospheric river. Residents are urged to monitor the situation and prepare to take action in the event an evacuation order is issued.

Full story follows below:

The Central Valley remains on a flood watch as rain continues and could be heavy in spots Monday.

Winds speeds remain from 12 to 25 mph. A Winter Storm Warning remains for heavy snow in the Sierra above 5,000 feet

RELATED: Here's where to find the nearest sandbag location in the Central Valley

Fresno County Office of Emergency Services (OES) is stressing the importance of personal preparedness before the next storm arrives.

RELATED: Fresno County OES and residents prepare for second atmospheric river

While the agency is not anticipating an emergency, it is prepared and wants residents to be as well.

Some tips from Fresno County OES: make sure your gutters are cleaned out, check on your trees to see if they're snug or if roots are exposed, fix them ahead of the storm, and drive safely.

In the South Valley, small businesses in downtown Fresno are already feeling the impact of the first atmospheric river.

At least two local businesses had to close their doors Friday because of Thursday's flood waters.

RELATED: Flood damage causes store closures in Downtown Hanford

The City of Hanford does have sandbags available for anyone who may need them at 900 S. 10th Avenue.