FRESNO, Calif, (KFSN) — Heavy rain, gusty winds and thunderstorms swept through Central California on Thursday, flooding some neighborhoods and prompting first responders to remind residents to use caution as additional storms are expected later this year.
“We do need rain and we usually get a lot of rain, mostly during winter,” said Selma resident Hilary Carranza.
In Selma, intense rainfall flooded part of a neighborhood near Cleveland and Evergreen Streets. Action News cameras captured vehicles, including a Selma police vehicle, driving through standing water.
Residents said flooding can happen quickly when heavy rain falls in a short period of time.
Skyview 30 also captured dark clouds hanging over fields near McCall and Central as strong winds moved through the area, shaking trees and bushes.
As the storm moved across the region, emergency crews prepared for possible weather-related incidents. The Fresno Fire Department said firefighters remained ready to respond after a busy Wednesday evening that included calls for downed power lines, power pole fires and transformer fires.
“We are staffed 365 days a year, with our regular 110 firefighters on duty per day,” said Josh Sellers of the Fresno Fire Department.
Sellers said crews were prepared to handle similar incidents if conditions worsened.
Authorities warned that Thursday’s storm is likely one of several weather systems expected to impact Central California in the coming months. The California Highway Patrol also urged drivers to remain aware of rapidly changing road conditions during active weather.
“If you see a giant puddle of water, don’t just drive through it cause you really don’t know how deep it is,” Carranza said.
The CHP also encouraged drivers to inspect their vehicles as storm season approaches, including checking tire condition and ensuring windshield wipers are functioning properly.
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