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WA’s north braces for impact as Tropical Cyclone Mitchell remains offshore

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Residents in Western Australia’s Gascoyne region remain indoors as Tropical Cyclone Mitchell skirts the coast of Carnarvon, while many welcome the much‑needed rain.

Storm track and official warnings

The category one system has been hugging the Pilbara coastline and travelling south since Friday. It is moving parallel to shore, tracking south of Carnarvon and is expected to make landfall near Shark Bay overnight or early Tuesday morning.

Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Caroline Crowe said rain and winds have started to pick up across the world‑heritage listed area, about 800 km north of Perth.

Did You Recognize? The cyclone is forecast to dissipate into a tropical low after it makes landfall.

“The Shark Bay area will see the worst conditions over the next three to six hours,” Crowe warned.

As the system moves southwards and crosses the coast, it will begin to weaken over land, though damaging gusts of up to 100 km/h could still occur.

Potential impacts

BoM has warned of abnormally high tides in the southern parts of Shark Bay and possible flash flooding in surrounding areas.

Heavy rainfall could trigger flash flooding in parts of the Gascoyne, Central West and Central Wheatbelt on Tuesday.

Potentially affected towns include Geraldton, Kalbarri, Merredin, Moora, Mount Magnet, and Dalwallinu.

The Bureau’s map shows the system expected to cross the coast on Monday night or early Tuesday morning.

Community response and services

An evacuation centre remains open at the Shark Bay Recreation Centre, while the Carnarvon PCYC is now closed.

Several schools in Shark Bay will stay closed on Tuesday, although many schools in the Pilbara are set to reopen.

As of 10 pm AWST on Monday, DFES Incident Controller Will Blackshaw reported no major damage in Carnarvon or Coral Bay.

He noted that rainfall in Shark Bay has exceeded 80 mm since 9 am Monday, with reports of about 200 mm in Monkey Mia and 80 mm in Denham.

Emergency crews will continue to monitor for water ingress and are preparing resources for any further needs.

Local reactions

ABC reporter and Carnarvon resident Rachel Hagan said the weather was calm until heavy rain and wind began early afternoon, describing “bangs” outside that made her jump.

She observed that residents seem “easygoing” despite the storm’s approach.

Local growers, still recovering from a recent heatwave, welcomed the rain but hoped the wind would not cause significant damage. (See the earlier heatwave impact here.)

Expert Insight: While the immediate threat of catastrophic wind damage appears limited, the heavy rains bring both relief and risk. Agricultural sectors will benefit from the water after a prolonged dry spell, yet flash‑flooding could strain infrastructure in low‑lying towns. Continued monitoring is essential as the system weakens and transitions to a tropical low.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Cyclone Mitchell expected to make landfall?

BoM forecaster Caroline Crowe said the system was expected to make landfall near Shark Bay overnight or early on Tuesday morning.

What wind speeds are being forecast?

Peak gusts could reach up to 100 km/h as the cyclone moves southwards and begins to weaken over land.

Which communities have evacuation centres open?

An evacuation centre is open at the Shark Bay Recreation Centre, while the Carnarvon PCYC has been closed.

How might this rain affect the region’s ongoing drought concerns?

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BRIN: River Naturalization and Normalization Are Equally Effective for Jakarta Flood Control

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Jakarta officials are pursuing river normalization as a key strategy to mitigate annual flooding, a problem exacerbated by limited drainage capacity. The decision follows an assessment that the city can currently manage approximately 150 millimeters of rainfall per day before widespread flooding occurs.

Approaches to Jakarta’s Flood Risk

Both river naturalization and normalization are considered effective methods for addressing Jakarta’s river problems and controlling flooding, according to Budi Heru Santosa, an Associate Researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). Santosa stated on February 4, 2026, that the choice between the two depends on the specific circumstances.

Normalization, which involves widening, deepening, dredging, and reinforcing river walls, is seen as a quicker solution for increasing drainage capacity, particularly in areas where land availability is limited. Naturalization, restoring a river to its natural state, is considered appropriate where usable land exists.

Did You Know? Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung announced plans to normalize three rivers – the Ciliwung, Krukut, and Cakung Lama – as part of the flood control strategy.

Governor Pramono Anung indicated that even with normalization efforts, flood management will remain essential if rainfall exceeds 200 millimeters. The current policy is based on the city’s existing capacity to handle 150 millimeters of rainfall.

Factors Contributing to Flooding

According to Cyril Raoul Hakim, Special Staff to the Governor for Public Communications, silting, sedimentation, and construction along riverbanks have constricted the natural flow of water, reducing the rivers’ ability to accommodate rainfall and runoff. This narrowing of the rivers contributes to the annual flooding issues.

Expert Insight: The Jakarta government’s focus on normalization reflects a prioritization of rapid, measurable improvements in drainage capacity. While naturalization offers long-term ecological benefits, it may not deliver immediate relief during peak rainfall events. This approach suggests a pragmatic response to a pressing urban challenge.

The Jakarta government views normalization as a “concrete medium- to long-term solution” to the recurring flooding problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What rivers are targeted for normalization?

The Ciliwung, Krukut, and Cakung Lama rivers are the three rivers in Jakarta that Governor Pramono Anung has announced plans to normalize.

What rainfall amount currently overwhelms Jakarta’s capacity?

Jakarta’s current infrastructure can accommodate around 150 millimeters of rainfall per day. Rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters requires flood management measures.

According to BRIN, are naturalization and normalization mutually exclusive?

No, Budi Heru Santosa of BRIN stated that both river naturalization and river normalization are equally effective and can be implemented when necessary, depending on the specific conditions.

As Jakarta moves forward with its normalization plans, it remains to be seen how effectively these measures will mitigate the impact of future rainfall events and protect the city from flooding.

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Floods Hit 16 Neighborhood Units and 10 Roads in Jakarta

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Heavy rains on Sunday, January 18, 2026, caused flooding in multiple areas of Jakarta, Indonesia. As of 7:00 a.m. Western Indonesian Time (WIB), the Jakarta Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) reported that 16 neighborhood units (RTs) and 10 roads were affected by the inundation.

Impact Across Jakarta

West Jakarta experienced the most significant impact, with 13 RTs flooded. Water levels in Kedaung Kali Angke Village reached 45–60 cm in eight RTs, while Tegal Alur Village saw 30–40 cm of water across four RTs, and Jelambar Village reported 25 cm of flooding in one RT. North Jakarta also saw flooding in two RTs, with water reaching 30 centimeters in both Ancol Village and West Pademangan Village.

Did You Know? The Jakarta BPBD reported that flooding impacted roads in North, West, and Central Jakarta.

East Jakarta was affected in one RT within the Rawa Terate sub-district, where floodwaters reached 40 cm. Beyond residential areas, ten roads were also inundated, with water depths ranging from 10 cm on Industri VI Street to 70 cm on Karang Bolong Raya Street.

Road Closures and Disruptions

The following roads were reported as flooded:

  • Green Garden Housing Complex Street (West Jakarta) – 15 cm
  • Pangeran Tubagus Angke Street (West Jakarta) – 20 cm
  • Pangeran Tubagus Angke Raya Street (West Jakarta) – 20 cm
  • West Outer Ring Road Street (West Jakarta) – 20 cm
  • Karang Bolong Raya Street (North Jakarta) – 70 cm
  • Sepatan Village Street (North Jakarta) – 30 cm
  • Cakung Cilincing Raya Street (North Jakarta) – 20 cm
  • Daan Mogot KM 13 Street (West Jakarta) – 15 cm
  • Boulevard Barat Street (North Jakarta) – 15 cm
  • Industri VI Street (Central Jakarta) – 10 cm

As of Sunday morning, 29 people, comprising 12 families, were evacuated from Tegal Alur Village in West Jakarta and are temporarily sheltered at the Alur Anggrek Child-Friendly Integrated Public Space (RPTRA).

Expert Insight: The BPBD’s rapid deployment of personnel and coordination with multiple agencies suggests a focus on mitigating the immediate impacts of the flooding. However, sustained efforts to address underlying drainage issues and potential long-term solutions will likely be necessary.

The Jakarta BPBD is working with the Water Resources (SDA) Agency, the Public Works Agency, and the Fire and Rescue Agency to monitor conditions, pump floodwaters, maintain drainage, and provide aid to those affected. The agency is prioritizing a rapid response to the flooding.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many areas of Jakarta were affected by the flooding?

According to the Jakarta BPBD, 16 neighborhood units (RTs) and 10 roads were affected by the flooding as of 7:00 a.m. WIB on January 18, 2026.

Which area of Jakarta was most impacted?

West Jakarta was the most affected area, with 13 RTs inundated. Water levels in Kedaung Kali Angke Village reached 45–60 cm.

Where are evacuees being sheltered?

Twelve families, or 29 people, evacuated from Tegal Alur Village in West Jakarta are temporarily sheltered at the Alur Anggrek Child-Friendly Integrated Public Space (RPTRA).

As Jakarta authorities work to address the current flooding, it remains to be seen what further measures may be taken to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and prevent similar events in the future.

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Climate Change and Deforestation Collide in Indonesia’s Deadly Floods • The Revelator

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Millions of people in Sumatra, Indonesia, remain displaced nearly two months after devastating floods and landslides triggered by the Senyar cyclone in November. The disaster underscores the growing dangers posed by the climate crisis and the critical role of environmental protection.

Widespread Devastation Across Sumatra

The Senyar cyclone, described by Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency as an unusual phenomenon, unleashed heavy rains across the region, displacing an estimated 3.3 million people and resulting in more than 1,030 deaths. Similar extreme weather events have recently impacted other countries in South and Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

The human cost of the disaster is profound. Siti Basmallah, of Babo village in Aceh Tamiang Regency, recounted the loss of her husband and the destruction of her home, stating, “I lost my husband, and our house is damaged and filled with mud.” She described the floodwaters reaching a staggering 15 meters (50 feet) in height, turning villages into rivers.

Did You Know? According to a Greenpeace report, between 1990 and 2024, natural forests in North Sumatra Province have been extensively converted into crop plantations, tree plantations, and dryland agriculture.

Syahrial Umar, amidst the debris in Aceh Tamiang, emphasized the urgent need for assistance, saying, “Our settlement was destroyed, as if by a tsunami. Many victims remain missing.” The damage has hampered rescue and aid delivery efforts, exacerbating the suffering of those affected.

The Role of Deforestation

Experts point to widespread deforestation as a key factor intensifying the impact of the cyclone. Sapta Ananda Proklamasi, a senior researcher with Greenpeace Indonesia, stated that most Sumatra watersheds are now in “critical condition,” with natural forests covering less than 25% of their original range. Currently, only 10 to 14 million hectares (54,000 square miles) of natural forest remain on the island – less than 30% of its total landmass.

The floods carried large quantities of logs downstream, suggesting a link to logging activities. Syahrial Umar observed, “I saw many logs carried away by the flood. They came from upstream, likely due to logging.” A thorough investigation into the source of these logs – whether from recent or past logging operations – is needed, according to Sapta Ananda Proklamasi.

Expert Insight: The scale of deforestation in Sumatra has significantly reduced the land’s ability to absorb rainfall and mitigate flood risk. This highlights the interconnectedness of environmental health and disaster resilience, and the long-term consequences of prioritizing short-term economic gains over sustainable land management.

Arie Rompas, chair of the Greenpeace Indonesia Forest Campaign Team, warned that the combination of a worsening climate crisis and degraded forests will continue to harm communities. He stressed the need for the government to acknowledge past failures in forest and land management.

Ongoing Challenges and Future Outlook

As of nearly two months after the cyclone, millions remain displaced, facing challenges including damaged infrastructure, disrupted access to essential resources, and widespread power outages. Zul, from Lintang Bawah City in Aceh Tamiang, described the desperate conditions, stating, “My family is just surviving on whatever we have…we’re just collecting rainwater to drink.”

Local leaders in Aceh are urging the government to declare a national emergency to expedite the allocation of funds for rescue and relief operations. If a national emergency is declared, it could lead to a more coordinated and efficient response, potentially accelerating the delivery of aid and support to affected communities. However, even with increased assistance, the long-term recovery process is likely to be protracted. It is also possible that further extreme weather events could hinder recovery efforts and displace more people. Continued monitoring of the situation and proactive disaster preparedness measures will be crucial in the months and years ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the floods in Sumatra?

The floods were caused by heavy rainfall brought by the Senyar cyclone in November, exacerbated by widespread deforestation and land conversion.

How many people have been affected by the disaster?

An estimated 3.3 million people have been displaced, and more than 1,030 deaths have been reported as a result of the floods and landslides.

What is being done to help those affected?

Aid organizations are working to provide food, clean water, and shelter to those displaced, but access to some villages remains difficult due to damaged infrastructure. Local leaders are calling for a national emergency declaration to expedite aid delivery.

How can communities better prepare for similar disasters in the future?

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Tourists stranded, dozens of roads closed as showers continue in flooded outback Queensland

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Residents and travellers in Winton, central west Queensland, are bracing for a “major” flood event this weekend as already swollen river systems continue to rise.

Winton Prepares for Major Flooding

Winton Shire Mayor Cathy White reported that low-lying properties have been sandbagged in preparation. Swift-water rescue teams and SES personnel have been deployed from Rockhampton and Gladstone and will remain in the area for the week. “We are expecting more water to come down … but we are hoping the water that’s there now will be able to get on its way down to the Diamantina [River],” Cr White said.

Did You Know? SES crews from Rockhampton and Gladstone were deployed to Winton to assist with flood preparation and potential rescues.

Water currently surrounds the western side of Winton, blocking roads. However, the road connecting Longreach and Winton reopened on Saturday afternoon. A moderate flood warning remains in effect, and another downpour occurred overnight. Mayor White cautioned that road closures could persist for several days, stating, “We may not open roads for a couple of days … but it’s an evolving beast, every day it’s something different. As soon as those roads are passable and safe, they’ll be open.”

Travellers Stranded, Stock Losses Expected

The flooding is also impacting travel. Sam Gould, travelling from Hervey Bay to Darwin, has been stranded in Winton for six days, along with approximately 12 other travellers attempting to reach Darwin or Mount Isa. Ms. Gould described the situation, saying, “We were sanded into our motels, waist high with sandbags at the entrance and exit … it’s a bit confronting, especially if this is your first flood.”

Expert Insight: The situation in Winton highlights the vulnerability of outback communities to extreme weather events. Effective preparation, like sandbagging and the deployment of emergency services, is crucial for mitigating risk, but the prolonged disruption to travel and potential economic impacts demonstrate the far-reaching consequences of these floods.

The McKinlay Shire is facing significant livestock losses. While an official tally is not yet available, Mayor Janene Fegan reported that some graziers anticipate losing up to half of their cattle, particularly calves. “Losses will be up there, 50 per cent and up. Especially baby calves — they’re not going to survive, there’s no way they can outswim it,” she said. Floodwaters are reportedly stretching 20 kilometres wide in some areas.

Broader Queensland Flood Risk

Beyond Winton, Senior Meteorologist Harry Clark indicated potential risks to coastal areas. He warned that further heavy rainfall on the north Queensland coastline over the next 24 hours could lead to flash flooding and riverine flooding between Cairns and Proserpine. Forecasters are also monitoring a tropical low forming off the coast, with a currently low, but increasing, chance of developing into a tropical cyclone by Thursday.

The weather system responsible for the flooding in the northwest is expected to move towards the coast, potentially exacerbating conditions in those areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current situation in Winton?

Winton is preparing for a “major” flood level, with low-lying properties sandbagged and emergency services deployed. Roads are currently blocked on the western side of town, though the road to Longreach has reopened.

How are travellers affected by the flooding?

Approximately 12 travellers attempting to reach Darwin or Mount Isa are currently stranded in Winton due to road closures.

What is the impact on local agriculture?

Graziers in the McKinlay Shire are expecting significant livestock losses, with some anticipating losing up to half of their cattle.

As floodwaters continue to rise and the weather system shifts, how will communities across Queensland adapt to these evolving conditions?

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Rain, snow, and flood risk: Severe winter storm starts tonight

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A significant winter storm is forecast to impact Israel beginning tonight (Wednesday), bringing with it heavy rainfall, potential thunderstorms, and snow expected on Mount Hermon. Authorities are warning of a heightened risk of both flooding and flash floods across multiple regions.

Storm Timeline and Regional Impacts

The initial rainfall is anticipated to begin in northern Israel late Wednesday night, progressively spreading southward to include the Sharon, Samaria, and central areas by Thursday morning. The storm is expected to peak on Thursday morning and afternoon, with particularly heavy rainfall – potentially reaching up to 100mm – concentrated in Gush Dan, along the coastal areas, and in Samaria.

Did You Know? Most areas of the country have already experienced rainfall amounts exceeding the seasonal average, particularly in the southern Negev and along the southern coast.

Coastal cities, Samaria, and Jerusalem face a serious risk of flooding on roads, in neighborhoods, and around drainage points. The meteorological service is advising residents to limit unnecessary travel and to keep vehicles clear of potentially hazardous areas. Simultaneously, a risk of flash floods is present in the streams of the Judean Desert, the Dead Sea region, and the northern Negev.

Looking Ahead

The heaviest rainfall is likely to persist through Thursday, with conditions gradually improving in the north on the night between Thursday and Friday. However, rain may continue in central and southern regions. Full relief from the storm is not expected until Friday afternoon, followed by a period of slight warming on Saturday.

Expert Insight: The approaching storm arrives as some regions are already experiencing above-average rainfall, while others continue to face a deficit. This system could be crucial in addressing those imbalances, though the immediate priority is managing the risks associated with heavy precipitation and potential flooding.

Current data indicates a significant rainfall deficit remains in the Upper Galilee and northeastern areas of the country. It is expected that this approaching system may help to reduce this gap.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the storm arrive?

The first rains are expected to begin in the northern part of the country late Wednesday night and spread south overnight.

Where is the highest risk of flooding?

The coastal cities, Samaria, and Jerusalem are considered to be at serious risk of flooding on roads, in neighborhoods, and around drainage points.

When is the storm expected to end?

Full relief from the storm is not expected until Friday afternoon, with slight warming anticipated on Saturday.

How will you prepare for potential disruptions caused by severe weather in your community?

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California storm brings heavy rain and flooding, threatening homes and holiday travel

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

A powerful winter storm brought heavy rains and gusty winds to California on Wednesday, triggering debris flows, water rescues, and evacuation orders across the state.

Storm Impacts Across California

Forecasters predict Southern California may experience its wettest Christmas in years, with warnings of flash flooding and mudslides. Areas previously scorched by January’s wildfires are particularly vulnerable and were placed under evacuation orders. Los Angeles County officials delivered approximately 380 evacuation notices to at-risk homes on Tuesday.

Early Wednesday, the L.A. Fire Department rescued a man from a drainage tunnel in northwest Los Angeles that led to a river. He was evaluated for any injuries. Several roadways throughout the region were closed due to flooding.

Did You Know? California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for six counties – L.A., Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Shasta – on Wednesday to facilitate emergency response and resource allocation.

The storm, fueled by atmospheric rivers – long bands of water vapor – intensified on Christmas Eve and is expected to impact travel plans for millions. These atmospheric rivers transport water vapor from the tropics, releasing it as rain or snow along the California coast, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Wind gusts in Los Angeles County exceeded 60 mph, downing trees and power lines. National Weather Service meteorologist Ariel Cohen urged residents to take warnings seriously, stating the cumulative rainfall will create “increasingly dangerous and life-threatening conditions.”

Localized Impacts and Evacuations

Residents in burn scar areas expressed concern. Claire Hamano of Malibu stated her biggest fear was being unable to evacuate if landslides blocked Pacific Coast Highway, and was preparing by filling her car with sandbags.

Typically, Southern California receives between half an inch and one inch of rain this time of year, but current forecasts predict 4 to 8 inches in many areas, with potentially more in the mountains. Wind gusts could reach 60 to 80 mph along the central coast.

Evacuation orders were issued for portions of Los Angeles and Orange counties in areas affected by recent wildfires. Despite the warnings, some residents in burn scar areas chose to remain in their homes, prompting renewed pleas from Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell and L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna to reconsider, emphasizing the “real and imminent” threat.

Expert Insight: The decision to remain in an evacuation zone, despite official warnings, highlights the complex interplay between personal risk assessment and the desire to protect property. However, it significantly complicates emergency response efforts and places individuals at increased risk.

Los Angeles County deployed K-rails to contain debris flows and made sandbags available to residents, particularly in areas like Altadena, which was impacted by the Eaton Fire last January.

Brinda Kimpton, a resident whose home survived the Eaton Fire, expressed nervousness but initially decided to stay, noting that “the mud debris came down, and it’s breached the K-rails,” adding, “it’s been a hell of a year.”

Northern California and Mountain Communities Affected

The storm’s impact extended to Northern California, where flash flooding caused water rescues and at least one death. A flood watch and high wind warning were in effect for much of the Sacramento Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area through Friday.

In the mountain community of Wrightwood, San Bernardino County firefighters rescued individuals trapped in their cars by mud and debris flows. Highway 2 leading into Wrightwood was washed out. Dillan Brown, stranded with his family, received assistance from neighbors who provided essential supplies after roads became impassable.

More than 125,000 people lost power Wednesday morning due to a damaged power pole, according to Pacific Gas and Electric Co. A shelter-in-place order was issued for Wrightwood.

Shasta County Sheriff Michael L. Johnson declared a local state of emergency on Monday to prepare for the storm’s arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an atmospheric river?

An atmospheric river is a long, narrow band of water vapor that forms over an ocean and transports moisture to the coast, often resulting in heavy rainfall or snowfall, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Which counties are under a state of emergency?

California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for L.A., Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego and Shasta counties.

What are officials doing to prepare?

Local and state officials are deploying resources and first responders, and the California National Guard is on standby to assist with emergency response efforts.

As the storm system moves through California, conditions could worsen, particularly with multiple atmospheric rivers forecast to impact the state during a peak travel period.

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Flash flooding in northern California

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Heavy rainfall and resulting flash floods impacted northern California on Sunday, prompting water rescues and, tragically, at least one confirmed death. The severe weather is linked to atmospheric rivers, a phenomenon bringing significant moisture to the region.

Impacts Across Northern California

Redding Experiences Flooding and Loss of Life

The city of Redding, population approximately 93,000, experienced numerous reports of stranded motorists attempting to navigate flooded roadways. Redding’s Mayor Mike Littau confirmed one fatality occurred within the city limits, though further details were not immediately available.

Rescues and Rainfall Totals

Firefighters in Truckee responded to a situation at Donner Summit, extending a ladder to assist residents at a home near the South Yuba River. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in that incident. The National Weather Service reported rainfall totals between 3 and 6 inches across parts of two counties by Sunday night.

Did You Know? Atmospheric rivers are described as long, narrow bands of water vapor that transport moisture from the tropics to northern latitudes.

Broader Weather Patterns

The Sacramento office of the National Weather Service had forecast a series of warm atmospheric rivers bringing moderate to heavy rain to the Valley, foothills, and mountains throughout the week of Christmas. These atmospheric rivers were recently observed impacting Washington state, delivering nearly 5 trillion gallons of rain in a single week and raising concerns about potential record flood levels.

Expert Insight: The connection between weather events in distant regions, such as the tropical cyclone flooding in Indonesia, and the intensification of atmospheric rivers impacting the western United States highlights the interconnectedness of global weather systems. While not a new phenomenon, the scale of recent events suggests a potential for increased frequency or intensity of these impactful weather patterns.

Looking Ahead

The forecast for continued atmospheric rivers suggests that additional rainfall is likely across northern California in the coming days. This could lead to further flooding, particularly in areas already saturated from recent precipitation. Authorities may continue to issue warnings and advisories, and residents in vulnerable areas could experience further disruptions to travel and daily life. It is possible that additional rescues will be required if conditions worsen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an atmospheric river?

Atmospheric rivers are long, narrow bands of water vapor that form over an ocean and flow through the sky, transporting moisture from the tropics to northern latitudes.

Where did the recent flooding occur?

Heavy rain and flash flooding soaked roads in northern California, specifically impacting Redding and the mountain pass area of Donner Summit.

Were there any injuries reported?

One person died in Redding, according to Mayor Mike Littau. Firefighters in Truckee assisted residents at a home near the South Yuba River, but no injuries were reported in that incident.

As communities brace for continued rainfall, what steps can individuals take to prepare for potential flooding and ensure their safety?

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‘Really challenging issue’: Many B.C. communities still at high risk for flooding

by Rachel Morgan News Editor
written by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Floodwaters are beginning to recede in parts of Abbotsford, B.C., but officials warn the danger is far from over as additional rain is forecast for an already saturated Fraser Valley.

What happened

The City of Abbotsford reported “significant improvement” in several neighbourhoods on Saturday, even as the Nooksack River in Washington continued to flow northward after overflowing earlier this week.

Side roads remain underwater and the Trans‑Canada Highway (Highway 1) stays closed, cutting off the fastest route between Metro Vancouver and the rest of Canada. The city warned that online maps are showing inaccurate road‑closure information.

EmergencyInfoBC reiterated the closure and urged drivers not to bypass barricades, noting that many side streets are also flooded. “Driving through flooded areas is a risk to life safety,” the agency said.

At least one fatality occurred when a vehicle rolled into a water‑filled ditch on Huntingdon Road; the occupant was rescued but died at the scene. The road remains closed while investigators work.

Provincial emergency officials said roughly 450 properties have been evacuated province‑wide—most in Abbotsford—with about 1,700 more under evacuation alert. Residents recalled the catastrophic floods of 2021.

Local resident Cindy Braun described watching Highway 1 become submerged and warned that water levels continued to rise overnight.

Environment and Climate Change Canada forecast more rain on Sunday, with a “potentially significant push of moisture” expected for Monday and early next week, and warned of heightened landslide risk as saturated slopes become unstable.

In nearby Chilliwack, Mayor Ken Popove said crews are monitoring landslide‑prone areas and have issued evacuation notices for Marble Hill due to debris‑flow hazards, plus alerts near Patterson Road.

Why it matters

The prolonged highway closure severs a critical transportation corridor, affecting commuters, freight movement, and emergency response across the province. Fatal collisions underscore the life‑safety threat posed by driving through flood‑water.

Widespread evacuations and property damage strain local resources and revive memories of the 2021 disaster, highlighting the community’s vulnerability to repeated flooding events.

Scientists, including UBC professor Tara Martin, link the increasing frequency of such floods to climate change, noting that atmospheric rivers and heavier rainfall push water into rivers faster than snowmelt traditionally did.

The agricultural sector is also impacted. While water levels on farms have stabilized, dairy producers report extensive cleanup needs and frustration over limited infrastructure improvements since 2021.

What may happen next

If the forecasted rain materializes, additional flooding could worsen road conditions, prolong Highway 1’s closure, and increase the risk of landslides on already saturated slopes.

Authorities may issue further evacuation alerts, especially in low‑lying or landslide‑prone zones such as Marble Hill.

In the longer term, provincial planners could consider buying out high‑risk properties or investing in new flood‑control measures, although the costs of such actions remain a subject of debate.

Did You Know? The Nooksack River in Washington overflowed earlier this week, sending floodwaters north into Abbotsford, B.C.
Expert Insight: The repeat flooding exposes a critical gap between emergency response and long‑term infrastructure planning. Even as crews work to restore road access, the pattern of extreme weather suggests that without strategic investments—such as property buyouts or resilient flood barriers—communities will face recurring disruptions and safety risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Highway 1 still closed?

Yes. EmergencyInfoBC confirmed that Highway 1 remains closed and drivers are advised not to attempt detours via flooded side roads.

How many properties have been evacuated?

About 450 properties have been evacuated province‑wide, with the majority located in Abbotsford, and roughly 1,700 additional properties are under evacuation alert.

What is the weather forecast for the coming days?

Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts more rain on Sunday, with a “potentially significant push of moisture” expected for Monday and early next week, increasing the risk of further flooding and landslides.

What steps can residents take now to stay safe as the situation evolves?

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Health

Traitement Perte Odorat Post-Traumatique : Lechien & Epicura

by Chief Editor
written by Chief Editor

The Silent Suffering: Restoring Smell and Reclaiming Lives After Head Trauma

For many, the sense of smell is an afterthought. Yet, for the 10-20% of individuals who experience permanent loss of smell after a head injury, life is irrevocably altered. From the simple pleasure of a favorite meal to the critical safety net of detecting smoke, the world changes dramatically. But, a glimmer of hope shines through a new study, offering a potential treatment that’s been long overdue.

PRP Therapy: A Breakthrough for Lost Scents?

The research, spearheaded by Professor Lechien, centers on Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections into the nasal passages. PRP, derived from the patient’s own blood, is rich in growth factors and has shown promise in regenerative medicine. In this context, it’s being used to try to repair and revitalize the olfactory epithelium, the specialized tissue responsible for detecting odors.

The preliminary results are encouraging. Two-thirds of the 33 patients showed significant improvements after the PRP injections. Even more remarkably, some individuals who had suffered from smell loss for over five years reported regaining their sense of smell. This offers a new dawn for individuals who have exhausted all other medical options.

Pro Tip: If you or a loved one has experienced a head injury and subsequent smell loss, consult a neurologist or ENT specialist. Early intervention might be key. Research and clinical trials on smell restoration are consistently evolving.

A Global Recognition and Expanding Horizons

Professor Lechien’s work is garnering international attention. The study is slated for presentation at the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery annual conference in 2025. His pioneering techniques are already spreading, with colleagues in Italy and London adopting the PRP protocol after receiving training from the professor.

This isn’t just about science; it’s about people. The loss of smell affects various facets of an individual’s life, leading to challenges in diet, safety (like detecting gas leaks), and emotional well-being. This groundbreaking research provides a sense of renewed optimism for a future where lost senses can be recovered.

The Broader Implications and Future Trends

This study is just one piece of a larger puzzle. The field of smell restoration is experiencing significant growth. With advances in regenerative medicine and the growing understanding of the brain-olfactory connection, additional innovative treatments are anticipated. Future research may delve into:

  • Personalized Medicine: Tailoring treatments based on individual patient profiles and the specific cause of smell loss.
  • Gene Therapy: Investigating how genetic factors might impact smell recovery and exploring gene therapy approaches to repair damaged olfactory neurons.
  • Neuroplasticity: Leveraging the brain’s ability to rewire itself after injury, using targeted rehabilitation techniques.

Did you know? The sense of smell is closely linked to memory and emotion. Regaining the ability to smell can often trigger positive emotional responses and revive cherished memories.

Addressing the Challenges: What Lies Ahead

While promising, the PRP treatment is still in its early stages. Researchers continue to refine the procedure, identify the ideal patient profile, and evaluate long-term outcomes. Access to the treatment may be limited initially, but as the research gains momentum, accessibility should increase.

It is critical to advocate for greater awareness and funding for research into the complexities of smell disorders. Organizations like the American Academy of Otolaryngology Foundation play a crucial role in this work.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does PRP therapy work for smell loss?

PRP injections deliver growth factors to the olfactory mucosa, aiming to stimulate the repair and regeneration of damaged olfactory neurons.

Who is a good candidate for this treatment?

The study suggests that the treatment could be beneficial for patients with smell loss due to head trauma, potentially even several years after the injury. Consultation with a specialist is vital for proper evaluation.

What are the potential risks?

As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks. These should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional before starting the treatment.

This groundbreaking research offers a beacon of hope for individuals grappling with anosmia following head trauma. As the scientific landscape continues to evolve, more treatments and a greater understanding of the olfactory system are certain to follow. Let’s hope this encourages further research and progress.

What are your thoughts? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below. Let’s start a conversation about smell restoration!

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