March 23, 2025 3:21 am

US-ENVIRONMENT-CLIMATE

A stranded couple hold onto their vehicle that became stuck in flood water in Windsor, California on November 22, 2024. A “bomb cyclone” was lashing the western United States bringing hurricane-force winds that have killed at least two people and left half a million without power. (Photo by JOSH EDELSON / AFP)

On November 22, 2024, Northern California faced severe flooding caused by an atmospheric river storm that delivered significant rainfall across the region. Areas such as the Bay Area and Sonoma County experienced extensive impacts, with several rivers reaching flood stage and widespread urban flooding. The storm caused landslides, blocked highways, and submerged vehicles in various locations. Some regions received a month’s worth of rain in just a few days, with rainfall totals exceeding 10 inches in certain areas.

Kayakers row passed a street sign on a flooded road in Windsor, California on November 22, 2024. A “bomb cyclone” was lashing the western United States bringing hurricane-force winds that have killed at least two people and left half a million without power. (Photo by JOSH EDELSON / AFP)

Emergency services responded to flooded roadways, stranded vehicles, and damage caused by downed trees and power outages. The heavy rain was accompanied by strong winds, creating additional hazards such as debris flows and rockslides. While the rainfall began to wane by the weekend, it left behind substantial disruptions and damage.

The atmospheric river storm that caused flooding in Northern California on November 22, 2024, resulted in significant damage and at least one confirmed fatality. A man died in Sonoma County after being trapped in his vehicle during rapidly rising floodwaters. Emergency responders found the vehicle submerged and were unable to rescue the victim in time.

Firefighters rescue a couple that became stranded in floodwaters on a road in Windsor, California on November 22, 2024. A “bomb cyclone” was lashing the western United States bringing hurricane-force winds that have killed at least two people and left half a million without power. (Photo by JOSH EDELSON / AFP)

Damage Details:

Infrastructure: Roads and highways were heavily affected by landslides and flooding, including blocked lanes on major routes like Highway 20. A boulder caused a crash on Highway 281
Property Damage: Urban areas saw severe flooding, with homes and businesses inundated in places like Windsor and Santa Rosa. Vehicles were submerged, and some residents needed evacuation.
Utilities: Strong winds accompanying the rain downed power lines and trees, leading to power outages and debris scattered across streets.