Back-to-back storms expected to slam Bay Area

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Latest satellite photo animation courtesy NOAA Satellite Service

By Karli Bulnes, Bay City News Service

February 25, 2006

Back-to-back storms are expected to hit the Bay Area beginning Sunday afternoon, bringing with them powerful winds and heavy rains.

According to the National Weather Service, the first storm will begin Sunday afternoon in the North Bay and move south over the rest of the region Sunday night and continue until Tuesday morning.

The weather service predicts rainfall totals for that storm to be between two and five inches, with the North Bay and Santa Cruz getting hit the hardest. The weather service warns that the heavy rainfall may cause local urban flooding.

Solano County officials are urging residents and business owners who experienced flooding during previous storms to prepare their homes, businesses and vehicles for flooding before the rain starts to fall.

Solano County officials said storms and floods in December caused an estimated $113 million in damage to the county.

County officials hope residents heed their advice to prevent storm-related problems and damage from occurring and are offering help.

Vacaville residents can pick up sand and sand bags today at Irene Larson Park, located at 1850 Alamo Drive, as long as supplies last, according to the Vacaville Police Department. The sand and sand bags are free but residents must bring their own shovels to fill the bags. Anyone who needs help filling the bags can call (707) 449-5200 for assistance.

The second storm, which is expected on Monday, will be stronger than Sunday's storm, according to the weather service.

Wind gusts of 50 to 60 mph are possible, the weather service reported, particularly for areas near the coast and hills.

A high wind watch is in effect for the San Francisco and Monterey bay areas from Sunday evening through Monday afternoon. The weather service recommends residents tie down any loose objects that are outside or bring them inside.

Mariners are advised to remain in port on Sunday and Monday and the weather service is recommending that all drivers consult updated road reports before traveling.

A third storm is expected to hit Wednesday night and continue into Thursday. Solano County officials reported that this third storm is not expected to bring as much rain as the first two storms.

Copyright © 2006 by Bay City News, Inc. -- Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.

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