###

The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Eureka has issued a flood watch for Humboldt and Del Norte counties, where two to five inches of rain can be expected in the next 24 hours. The flood watch will remain in effect until 4 p.m. Sunday.

“Moderate to heavy rainfall and gusty winds will continue this weekend as an atmospheric river impacts the northern California coast,” according to a recent post from the Eureka NWS. “Rainfall totals exceeding 8 inches [is] possible in the King Range and higher elevations of northern Humboldt and Del Norte counties.”

Folks living in flood-prone areas should prepare for a possible flood warning, NWS says. The forecast can change quickly, so keep tabs at this link to stay up-to-date.

Humboldt County Public Works has reported flooding on a few county-maintained roads, including Cannibal Island, Howard Heights and Old Arcata roads. Chemise Mountain and Coffee Creek roads are “closed until further notice.” Shively Road is currently open, but you’ll want to use extra caution traveling through the area due to an active slide.

The NWS has also issued a wind advisory for interior areas of Humboldt and Del Norte counties. Winds will range between 20 and 30 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph expected.

There is also a high surf advisory in effect for coastal communities all along the North Coast. “These large waves can be erratic and unpredictable,” according to the alert. “Use extra caution near the surf zone as these large waves will be capable of sweeping people into the frigid and turbulent ocean water.”

Stay safe out there, Humboldt!