Storm leaves damage, creates road hazards throughout Central Valley

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Rain poured down in Merced Friday night before the storm moved down the Central Valley to Fresno early Saturday morning.

The California Highway Patrol says officers have responded to calls regarding debris falling on vehicles and roadways since the storm reached Fresno County.

The wet weather also increases the risk of spinouts and crashes.

“This is our first really big storm. So again, getting all that oil, dirt on the roadways that makes the roadways a little bit smoother for our commuters,” said Mike Salas of the California Highway Patrol.

The CHP has increased the number of officers on patrol ahead of the holiday with more drivers expected to be on the road. The authorities encourage everyone to be aware of their surroundings.

This afternoon, motorists driving through Bullard and First in northeast Fresno had to slow down because the sidewalk and one of the lanes was completely covered in water.

That’s something Fresno resident Grace Klassen is keeping an eye on.

“I’m definitely taking my time on the roads. It looks like some of these drains are blocked and creating big puddles,” Klassen said.

We caught up with Mayor Jerry Dyer at the One Table Fresno community meal and coat giveaway Saturday morning.

The event was moved indoors due to the wet weather.

Dyer says city staff have been watching for any other potential problems caused by this round of showers as they prepare for more in the coming days.

“We just want to make sure neighborhoods are kept safe throughout Fresno, no matter how much rain we get this weekend,” said Mayor Dyer.

Officials say it’s important to avoid driving through standing water because you never know what might be underneath.

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