A Pacific storm that landed in northern California Thursday resulted in a local gain of 2.7 inches in rainfall in Gilroy, according to totals published by the University of California Cooperative Extension program.
December is already the wettest month of the year for Gilroy, which has seen a total of 4.47 inches through Thursday. To date this year, Gilroy has seen 12.99 inches in rainfall—a stark contrast to rainfall totals in 2013. The Garlic Capital saw a combined rain total of 2.87 inches during the driest year on record in California history.
Flood advisories remain in effect through 9 p.m. Friday throughout Santa Clara County and neighboring areas. The National Weather Service expects lingering showers countywide today and tonight that will contribute to areas that flooded from Thursday’s downpour.
Excess runoff from the heavy rains will cause ponds of water to appear in urban areas, from highways to streets and underpasses, the NWS reports. The agency suggests drivers allow themselves extra time to travel and be wary of potentially flooded areas.
If water covers the roadway, the NWS advises not to cross it since floodwaters are often deeper than they appear.
