U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and his department are monitoring the flooding situation in California where an atmospheric river inundated cities during a recent storm, prompting many residents to flee.
The atmospheric river event triggered flooding and mudslides in various parts of the state, including the state's Central Coast and the San Francisco Bay Area, according to a March 14 CNN report. The event also has lead to road closures and evacuations, with several people reported missing. The National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings and advised people to avoid traveling through affected areas.
"I've been briefed on weather impacts to communities and infrastructure in California and have been in touch with Gov. Newsom," Buttigieg said in a March 13 Twitter post. "Our team at Federal Highways are in contact with CA counterparts and stand ready to provide assistance as needed."
The event was caused by a large low-pressure system that drew in moisture from the Pacific Ocean and dumped heavy rain on the state, CNN reported.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the state secured federal assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for response and recovery efforts for the storm and flooding, according to a March 10 news release. The federal assistance includes grants for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related needs.
Newsom announced federal aid would help provide critical support to affected communities, businesses and individuals impacted by the severe weather conditions, the release reported. He also urged residents to take necessary precautions and stay informed about the ongoing situation.
Newsom later announced the expansion of the state of emergency to three additional counties, bringing the total to seven counties affected by the storm and flooding, according to a March 14 news release. The governor declared a state of emergency, which allows state agencies to provide assistance and resources to affected areas, including evacuations, search and rescue operations and recovery efforts. The governor urged residents to follow evacuation orders and stay informed about the ongoing situation.