Flash Flood — Tuolumne, California

2023-03-11 · near Sonora, Tuolumne, California

Event narrative

Flash flooding was reported in the downtown area of Sonora due to heavy rain from a severe thunderstorm. Tuolumne County OES reported a creek flowing out of banks, and water flowing over Washington Street, impacting approximately 25 to 30 homes, 10 public buildings and 30 businesses.

Wider weather episode

A wet system brought periods of heavy rain with flooding. There was 1 to 2 feet of snow accumulated above 6,500 feet, locally higher on some peaks. Heavy rain fell bringing widespread roadway flooding, as well as local mudslides, flash flooding, with evacuations ordered in some areas. Thunderstorms with large hail, strong damaging winds and tornadoes were reported. Strong winds gusting to 55 to 75 mph brought down numerous trees and powerlines across the area, causing widespread and extended power outages.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (37.9818, -120.3722)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1090187. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.