An atmospheric river drenching much of California since Wednesday night had dropped several inches of rain and brought gusty winds and minor urban flooding to parts of Santa Cruz County as of Thursday afternoon.
Over the previous 24 hours, Santa Cruz had recorded about 2.47 inches of rainfall, with higher amounts in the mountains, according to the National Weather Service. A flood advisory was to remain in effect through 3 p.m.
The region is still under a wind advisory through 4 p.m. with gusts forecast between 35 and 50 mph. The Santa Cruz Mountains could see stronger winds, in excess of 60 mph.
The NWS warned that beach hazards are possible for Santa Cruz County from 3 p.m. Thursday through 9 p.m. Friday, including breaking waves between 13 feet and 23 feet high and moderate risks of sneaker waves and strong currents. The weather service advises that inexperienced swimmers should stay out of the water.
The heaviest rainfall will diminish in the early afternoon Thursday and lighter rainfall will continue for several days across the Santa Cruz area.
On Thursday morning, the California Highway Patrol’s Santa Cruz office encouraged residents to be attentive and careful while driving, as officers had responded to several crashes already.
“Please take this as a reminder to drive with extra caution during these wet conditions,” the agency said on Instagram.
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