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First Atmospheric River of the season brings heavy rain, strong winds, snow to Northern California

The relentless downpour made travel challenging, particularly for those navigating localized flooded roads and reduced visibility.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Northern California is facing hazardous road conditions as the first atmospheric river of the season brings heavy rain, strong winds, and snow to the region, causing multiple accidents and disruptions.

Friday night saw widespread impacts as the storm kept first responders busy and created difficult driving conditions.

The relentless downpour made travel challenging, particularly for those navigating localized flooded roads and reduced visibility.

In Oroville, several crashes were reported, while a semi-truck collision on Interstate 5 near Twin Cities caused major traffic backups.

Drivers expressed frustration over the conditions, with some noting the difficulty of seeing road markings in heavy rain.

“It’s hard to tell, especially if you do not have lines on the ground,” said Kayla Chenelle, Sacramento driver. “If you are paying attention, you can see someone else driving through a puddle. Be careful so you do not hydroplane.”

Emergency crews also responded to a water rescue in Sacramento’s Gardenland neighborhood. Sacramento Fire said they were called to Steelhead Creek near Bowman Avenue, where rising waters had trapped several homeless individuals on an island. Though most refused assistance, crews were able to rescue a man and his dog.

As the heavy rains continue to impact Northern California, localized flooding remains a major concern. State Fire and Rescue Chief Brian Marshall urged drivers to be cautious, stressing that water on roadways can be deceptively deep.

“Turn around, don’t drown,” Marshall advised. “Any water that’s moving across a roadway may look shallow but can be much deeper than it seems because of how the road is made.”

With the storm winding down, the message remains clear: Drivers should slow down, remain vigilant, and be prepared for continued weather challenges as the winter season begins.

WATCH MORE ON ABC10 | Atmospheric River Latest | Tracking heavy rain in Northern California

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