Heavy rain, high tides cause flooding along stretch of Northern California
Severe storms in Northern California on January 3, 2026, led to significant flooding along a 15-mile stretch from Sausalito to San Rafael, exacerbated by record-breaking 'King Tides'—the highest in over 20 years. Authorities reported water levels reaching 3 to 4 feet, prompting road closures and rescues of individuals trapped in vehicles. The National Weather Service issued a flood advisory for San Francisco, predicting continued rain through the weekend. In Santa Barbara County, additional flooding and mudslides blocked vital roadways, and a man tragically drowned after being swept into a creek. Communities were advised to remain indoors until conditions improve.
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The flooding was described as a 'perfect storm' by Marin County Sheriff’s Sgt. Michael Dobbins, combining heavy rain with the astronomical effects of King Tides, which occur when the sun, moon, and Earth align.
As floodwaters inundated streets, some residents resorted to kayaking, while others waded through water that exceeded knee height, illustrating the severity of the situation.
The National Weather Service's flood advisory for the San Francisco area is effective until 2 p.m. on Sunday, with expectations of continued rainfall on the following days.
Road closures were reported in Santa Barbara County due to flooding and mudslides, with a critical highway near Goleta being impacted.
Tragically, one fatality was confirmed when a man was swept into a creek during the storm, highlighting the dangers posed by the severe weather conditions.