California Hit with Series of Powerful Storms, Causing Widespread Damage, Flooding, and Power Outages

California has been hit with a series of powerful storms driven by atmospheric rivers since Dec. 26, causing widespread damage, flooding, and power outages. On Saturday, the state was hit with more wind, rain, and snow, raising flooding concerns and making travel dangerous.

The National Weather Service warned of bands of rain with gusty winds spreading south from the north, with more storms expected to follow into early next week. In the south, warnings were posted for parts of counties including San Mateo and Santa Cruz, where the tiny community of Felton Grove along the San Lorenzo River was ordered evacuated.

California Governor Gavin Newsom estimated that the state has been hit by eight atmospheric rivers so far, with a ninth possible. As of Saturday morning, more than 68,000 utility customers were without electricity, a number that was cut by more than half during the afternoon.

The storms have caused significant damage and disruption, and officials are urging residents to take precautions and be prepared for more storms in the coming days. The National Weather Service is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed.