At least one person died in Redding, California after a sudden flash flood left streets submerged and a vehicle trapped in rising water.
Fatality in Redding
Redding Mayor Mike Littau confirmed the death in a Facebook update posted Sunday night. Littau added that the cause of death remains under investigation. “The call came into 911 from a person stuck while water was coming into the vehicle,” Littau wrote, adding that the caller’s phone then died.
Police Rescue and CPR Attempt
A Redding Police Officer swam out into the water, broke the windows and pulled the victim to shore. CPR was performed but the person did not survive. The officer’s quick actions were praised by the mayor, but the outcome remained tragic.
Evacuation Center Opens
An evacuation center is now open in Redding, according to the city’s Facebook page. Displaced community members can go to Pilgrim Congregational Church to “get warm, stay dry, and access snacks and warm drinks.” The center provides essential services during the flooding.
Video Evidence of Flooding
A striking video taken in Redding on Sunday shows roadways submerged by flash flooding and what appears to be a water main break, causing a massive plume of water to erupt from the ground. The footage illustrates the severity of the situation and the rapid rise in water levels.
Statewide Flood Watches
As of Monday afternoon, flood watches remain in effect for 41 million people, encompassing nearly all of California and parts of southern Nevada and northwest Arizona. The watches cover a vast area, warning residents of potential flooding.
Cities at Risk
Cities at risk include San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. These metropolitan areas are under the same flood watch, with varying timelines for the watch periods.
Atmospheric River Continues
A potent atmospheric river is fueling the flooding and will continue throughout the week, with the moisture plume beginning to move toward Southern California. The river’s moisture is expected to bring heavy rain, wind and snow.
Redding’s Concerns for Tuesday-Friday
Redding, California, “is very concerned” that the rainfall from Tuesday to Friday could have a bigger impact than what the city already saw on Sunday, according to Mayor Littau. The city is preparing for the next storm system expected to arrive on Tuesday.
City Resources and Preparation
“Departments are working to repair damage from Sunday evening and to stage resources for the next storm system expected to arrive on Tuesday,” the Redding Facebook page says. Residents are urged to stay off the roads and be aware of surroundings.
Public Advisories
On Monday afternoon, Littau advised residents to “stay off the roads” and to “be aware of surroundings.” The mayor’s message emphasizes caution during the ongoing weather.
Los Angeles Mayor’s Warning
In a Monday statement, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass advised residents who have holiday travel plans this week to “use caution on the roads, plan ahead, and stay informed.” Bass also encouraged L.A. residents to sign up for emergency alerts at NotifyLA.org.
Weather Forecast Details
Bands of moisture will target north-central California into the northern Sierra, where 2 to 4 inches of rainfall is expected. Higher elevations will see heavy mountain snow and strong winds, creating dangerous travel conditions.
Future Outlook to Christmas Eve
Torrential rain will pass over the northern California coastline on Tuesday before moving into parts of southern California. By Christmas Eve, treacherous travel conditions are forecast across California, with the heaviest rain in the southern part of the state from Santa Barbara to Oceanside.
Key Takeaways
- Redding mourns a fatality amid flash flooding, with authorities warning of worsening weather.
- An evacuation center has opened at Pilgrim Congregational Church to aid displaced residents.
- Flood watches cover 41 million people, and the atmospheric river will continue to bring heavy rain and snow.
The situation in Redding and the broader California region remains fluid as officials monitor the atmospheric river and prepare for the next storm system. Residents are urged to follow city advisories, stay off roads when possible, and seek shelter if conditions worsen.
