Atmospheric rivers cause $1 billion in damage across CA

continued from pg. 1 perspective, this most recent storm tells us more about how atmospheric rivers work and, perhaps more importantly, how well our forecasting and prediction of them currently work. With so much tracking technology, meteorologists and climatologists learn a lot from each event.”

Damages from the storm are estimated to total more than $1 billion across the state, according to an article by NPR. The Press Democrat estimated that by Jan 10, Sonoma County had suffered $11 million in damages to local roads and other public infrastructure due to the high winds and flooding in the area.

Professor Robinson added, “Storms like this may also keep the potential destructive forces in the forefront of residents’ and community leaders’ minds, which hopefully leads to greater preparation.”

The LA Times quoted California Governor Gavin Newsom saying that the storms had claimed the lives of 22 California residents. This is a higher death toll than from wildfires in the past two years combined.

Our thoughts are with those affected by these storms, and if you are in need of disaster relief, you can call to register with FEMA at 1-800-621-3362.