Stock image of rain. [Photo by Anna Rogers]
Heavy rain continues to fall across Humboldt County and neighboring areas this morning, prompting multiple flood advisories and an ongoing flood watch from the National Weather Service in Eureka.
At 5:41 a.m., Doppler radar and automated rain gauges indicated heavy rainfall across Humboldt County, northeastern Mendocino County, and southwestern Trinity County. Between 1 and 2 inches of rain had already fallen.
Gif of the incoming rain from the NWS
The advisory warns that minor flooding is occurring in low-lying and poor drainage areas, with water reported over roadways and elevated river and stream flows. An additional inch of rain is possible this morning, which could worsen minor flooding.
The National Weather Service reports urban and small stream flooding is already occurring or imminent, particularly in poor drainage areas. There is also an increased risk of rock and landslides along roadways.
Beyond this morning’s immediate flooding concerns, a broader Flood Watch remains in effect from 10 p.m. tonight through Tuesday evening for Del Norte, Humboldt, Trinity, and Mendocino counties.
Rainfall totals through Tuesday night are forecast to range from 2 to 5 inches across much of Humboldt, Del Norte, southern Trinity, and northern Mendocino counties, with locally higher amounts possible on windward terrain. Southern Mendocino and Lake counties are expected to see 1 to 2.5 inches.
Only one river is expected to reach flood stage however. The Russian River at Hopland is predicted to crest at minor flooding about 7 p.m.
Still flooding can occur on roads. Drivers are urged not to attempt to cross flooded roadways. Even shallow water can stall vehicles or conceal hazards beneath the surface. Residents near small streams and in low-lying areas should remain alert for rapidly changing conditions.
There is also an increased risk of rock and landslides. Those traveling are urged to slow down and watch for hazards.
This is a developing weather situation. Conditions may change as additional rainfall moves through the region this morning and into tonight.
UPDATE: The CHP CAD page and Caltrans QuickMap are now reporting the following areas flooding:
As of 7:39 a.m.: The northbound onramp is closed due to flooding, and southbound Hookton Road will be closed shortly.
7:40 a.m. : Old Arcata Road at Graham Road: Water continues to rise. Earlier report indicated flooding was “pretty deep” and the roadway will need to be closed.
Route 254/Avenue of the Giants is FULLY CLOSED north of Redcrest (PM 41 to 43.37) in Humboldt County due to flooding. There is currently no estimated time of reopening.
UPDATE 8:10 a.m.:
Flooding on Connick Creek at Old Briceland Road.
7:59 a.m. — Shelter Cove Road between China Creek and Huckleberry Lane: A tree is blocking the westbound lane
UPDATE from Humboldt County Roads at 4 p.m.:
The following Humboldt County roads are flooded:
Fernbridge Drive
Berta Road
V street at Highway 255
Old Arcata Road between Graham Road and Jacoby Creek Road
Waddington Road from the address of 2400 to 2504
Port Kenyon Road from Market Street to California Street
Ambrosini Lane to the end of the road
Meridian Road from mile marker .5 to .9
Cannibal Island Road
Elk River Road at mile marker 3.34
Mad River Road at the intersection of Miller Lane and Mad River Road
Shelter Cove Road at Bear Creek
The following Humboldt County roads are closed:
Eel River Drive at Hookton Road
Freshwater Road between Howard Heights and Garfield School
Coffee Creek Road
Meridian Road at mile marker .4 to .9
Wilder Ridge Road at mile marker 6.76 to 7.16
Camp Kimtu Road
Crannell Road, near the intersection of Dows Prairie Road
Stay informed
Humboldt County residents are encouraged to sign up to receive text and email alerts regarding county road conditions, including upcoming projects, road closures and chain requirements. Residents can sign up at HumboldtGov.org/RoadsUpdates
Community members are encouraged to visit Quickmap.dot.ca.gov to check for Caltrans road updates and visit HumboldtGov.org/Roads for updates on county road conditions.
For more information and updates on Humboldt County road projects, follow @HumCoRoads on Facebook or visit the Humboldt County Public Works Roads and Fleet Services Division web page
