Here's every weather alert for Solano County so far
From a freeze watch to the potential for flooding, Solano County is covered by a slew of storm-related weather advisories.
(Graphic by Solano NewsNet)
An anticipated winter storm will bring a host of weather-related challenges to Solano County over the next few days, including heavy rain, severe wind and the potential for flooding and freezing.
The storm is part of a weather system that is expected to impact all of Northern California, though with varying conditions and degrees of severity in what weather forecasters are calling an “active weather pattern” that will be present through the rest of the week.
A number of weather-related advisories have been issued by the National Weather Service’s Sacramento office, which covers Solano County and nearby regions of the Sacramento Valley and Carquinez Strait. Here’s a look at the advisories that have been issued as of Tuesday evening…
Hard Freeze Warning
When: This weather advisory has expired
Where: Dixon, Vacaville, Suisun City, Rio Vista and surrounding rural areas
What This Means: Forecasters are predicting sub-freezing temperatures for a significant portion of the Sacramento Valley. Locally, temperatures are expected to be at or just above freezing, though the effects of a “hard freeze” may still be present. Weather experts say pets and sensitive plants should be brought indoors if possible, and water pipes that are not insulated should be allowed to drip slowly in order to prevent freezing and damage.
High Wind Warning
When: Late Tuesday night to early Wednesday afternoon
Where: All of Solano County and portions of neighboring regions
What This Means: Significant sustained wind blowing from the south is expected to start late Tuesday evening, possibly as early as 10 p.m., and last throughout the night into Wednesday morning. Forecasters say gusts of up to 60 miles per hour are possible some places. In north Solano County, sustained wind speeds are expected to be between 20 miles per hour and 35 miles per hour, with wind speeds increasing further south. The wind could cause trees and power lines to topple, which may cause sporadic power outages and infrastructure damage. Driving will be difficult.
Flash Flood Watch
When: Tuesday afternoon to Thursday afternoon
Where: Rural portions of Vacaville, Fairfield and Winters
What This Means: Areas that were impacted by last August’s LNU Lightning Complex wildfire could see flash flooding as a result of periodic, heavy rainfall of up to 3 inches. The heaviest rain is expected Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, but sustained rain through Thursday could generate debris slides and cause trees and power lines to come down. Residents and businesses within the Hennessey Fire burn scar are urged to prepare for the possibility of flash flooding.
Weather Advisories Explained
The National Weather Service typically issues one of two advisories: A weather watch or a weather warning.
A watch is issued when conditions seem favorable toward some type of weather event like a flood, tornado or thunderstorm. A watch is typically issued several hours or days before an actual event and allows members of the public to prepare for the possibility of a severe weather incident.
A warning is issued when a weather event like a flood, tornado or severe thunderstorm is about to happen or is already happening. Warnings require immediate action, such as seeking shelter (in the case of a thunderstorm or tornado) or evacuating or avoiding an area (in the case of a flash flood).
Alert Solano
The Solano County Sheriff’s Department is requesting members of the community sign up for Alert Solano, a free service that offers real-time public safety alerts, including evacuation notices, severe weather, road closures/openings and other critical information. These alerts are delivered by phone call, text messages and/or email messages based on your preference. (Sign up here)
We’re proud to produce independent news for Solano County. This newsletter is an all-volunteer effort. If you would like to show your appreciation, consider making a donation in any amount or converting your email subscription into a paid one.
Discuss this newsletter and other stories from across Solano County on our Facebook group here and follow our new Twitter account here.