With high winds and 3-5 inches of rain expected to batter the mountains over the next few days, officials are warning that the brunt of Typhoon Melor, the first major storm of the season, will be felt right here in Santa Cruz County.
With high winds and 3-5 inches of rain expected to batter the mountains over the next few days, officials are warning that the brunt of Typhoon Melor, the first major storm of the season, will be felt right here in Santa Cruz County. The biggest fear is mudflows, particularly around Davenport, which were most affected by the Lockheed Fire. Cal Fire Captain Bill Tomkovic warns that the hills are all covered with ash and debris, and that is all likely to start pouring down the hills. Local residents have been warned to find alternative sources of power and to stock up on food to avoid being stranded until roads can be cleared. Sand bag stations have also been set up to protect homes from mud flows and diverted creeks.
Coastal areas are expected to see wind gusts as high as 55 mph on Tuesday. Traffic is expected to be severely hindered by the storm, especially on Highway 17, and commuters are being warned to allow themselves plenty of time to get where they need to go.
Read more at ABC and the Santa Cruz Sentinel.
