Biblical.

A few were out sweeping drains clear to protect their homes. 

That is really the best way to describe the weather yesterday.  Torrents of rain came down in low lying areas, while above 2500 feet, snow began falling and accumulating in massive amounts.  Urban flooding was a significant issue yesterday, closing roads.  In Santa Cruz, on our street, water was raging like rapids, up to 6 inches deep at its peak.  And we live on a relatively flat street.  Water was running everywhere, as it really had no where to go.  Creeks and streams breached their banks.  Drains to the ocean were at capacity.  It was amazing.

In the high country, all roads heading over the Sierra closed for some duration of the storm.  Route 88 saw about 50 miles of road close due to avalanche danger and lack of visibility.  The plows could just not keep up; Up to 4 inches of snow fell in one hour during the peak.  Alpine Meadows is closed today.  They just got too much snow to deal with.  Others are trying to open, but will have a challenge getting dug out and opening the steep terrain.  A lot of avalanche mitigation needs to occur.  If you are going out riding today or over the weekend, and have access to a transceiver, wear it.  Even in controlled inbounds areas, slide danger will remain high.  Sierra Avalanche Center is reporting high danger for the third day in a row. Not that impressive for a Colorado snow pack, but certainly so for our usual maritime stability.

Heavy rains and a grey sky.

If that does not impress you, how does 16'@17sec sound?  If you are like "what?", then let me explain.  The surf is pretty large this morning, with swells running above 15 feet, with a period of about 17 seconds.  When this type of swell hits the right type of reef, the waves will break in the 25-30 foot range.  And the South wind shifted to the WNW last night, at about 10-15 knots.  That means well protected spots in Santa Cruz will be cleaning up a bit by later in the morning.  With this much swell in the water, some spots are sure to go off.  With the wrap, we can expect to see clean surf in the head high plus range.  Perhaps a bit bigger along west cliff.  If you are hoping for the big wave show, head up to Davenport and watch the surf batter the coast.  Please stay a safe distance from the water and expect rogue monster waves that are 50% bigger than the typical set.  If you are considering getting in the water, please be aware that with this much run off, the ocean is dirty.  Health officials suggest steering clear of the water for at least 72 hours after a period of heavy run-off.

Urban flooding was common yesterday.

Today, we will see some light showery weather here near the bay.  A bit more turbulent weather can be expected in the mountains.  There looks to be two more waves to move through over the weekend.  The 3rd storm in the series looks like it will break apart with one portion arriving during the day on Saturday, and the second coming through late on Sunday.  Neither is a strong as what we had on Thursday (even combined, I doubt they will have the power of yesterdays system).  The models are not all in agreement right now about the intensity and timing of the next few waves.  Regardless, we can expect continued rain and showers through late Sunday and possibly early Monday.  Clearing still expected for next week, with a high of about 70F in Santa Cruz by mid week.  Bring on the spring.