Chico's getting pummeled

Since my last post, Chico and Butte County (Chico's official metropolitan area) have been getting pummeled with heavy rain, strong winds, and,in the higher elevations (generally above 4000'), snow. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the Sierra Nevada Mountains for elevations above 3000' until 6pm tomorrow. The Sacramento Valley is under a Flood Advisory for another 20 minutes, and a Wind Advisory until 6pm this evening. The valley and foothills of the Sierra Nevada are also under a High Wind Watch until 6pm tomorrow. The difference between a Wind Advisory and a High Wind Watch is merely the speed of the wind. The potential wind speeds are much stronger under a High Wind Watch- generally gusts above 60 mph. Those speeds can definitely take down some trees and power lines. The highest wind gust so far in Chico the past 24 hours has been 40 mph- the maximum threshold for a Wind Advisory. Chico has also received over 3 inches of rain the past 2 and a half days. The latest storm affecting us currently (the third in a series of about 5 or 6)is beginning to exit the region right now. The strongest storm of the batch will invade tomorrow morning, with more heavy rain, snow, and very strong winds. I haven't heard of any reports of power outages yet, but there may well be tomorrow, especially now that the ground is super saturated. It's easier for trees to become uprooted and knock down power lines. Stock up on candles, flashlights, and non-perishable foods now, especially if you live in outlying, rural areas. I remember the last really big storm we had two years ago. It took power crews five to seven days to get some of the rural residents' power back on. This weather is rather unusual in these parts. We see some big storms this time of year, but rarely so many in such a short time span. I have to admit, I do love this stormy weather! Stay tuned for more updates.