Santa Cruz County expecting another large storm system

Another major winter storm is set to hit Santa Cruz County, with heavy rain and gusty winds starting late this evening and continuing through Thursday morning. Two to three inches of rain is forecast for coastal areas, while parts of the Santa Cruz Mountains could see up to six inches of rain, according to the National Weather Service. The heaviest rain is expected Wednesday morning — just in time for the early commute.

High-wind and flash-flood watches have been issued for the region, and Santa Cruz County residents may see downed trees and power lines, as well as possible flooding, according to forecasters. Winds of 25 to 35 mph are predicted, with gusts to 65 mph.

Officials from the UC Santa Cruz Office of Emergency Services, Santa Cruz County, and the City of Santa Cruz urge area residents to use caution when traveling during the storm. Due to the falling trees and branches, exercise caution in wooded areas including campus, and watch for flooded roads.

Santa Cruz County maintains several storm resources for residents:
Storm Preparedness website: santacruzcounty.us/StormPreparedness.aspx
County Office of Emergency Services: www.santacruzcounty.us/OES
Current road closures (Santa Cruz County roads only): www.sccroadclosure.org

In addition, residents may look up current PG&E power outages at www.pge.com/outages, or call the utility's 24-hour hotline at 800-743-5002.