Storm runoff a major concern

On cue, the rains starting falling again early Friday and the storm strengthened through the day as public works staffs in the cities and around the county were kept busy closing some roads and keeping others open.

The biggest concern remains the storm runoff in the western foothills that were devastated by a series of wildfires this summer.

"Reservoir levels will easily accommodate the heavier than average Cascade rainfall. However, with the major Northern California fires earlier in the year, runoff will arrive more quickly causing a concern for local roadways to pond or flood. Residents are encouraged to drive with caution and never drive around road closures onto flooded roadways," the Colusa County Sheriff's Department announced.

Officials also are keeping a close eye in the Sacramento River level, although it did not reach the expected high of 66 feet predicted for the weekend. The river crested at 64.2 feet, above the 63-foot monitoring stage, but well below the 70-foot flood stage.

The Colusa Weir opened as expected at 60 feet, and despite exceeding its flood level of 64 feet, the Moulton weir did not close River Road, officials said.

Area residents who frequently drive by the river gauges will likely see the levels rising and dropping as the storm's intensity ebbs and flows.

However, according to state officials, the river level is not expected to reach those stages expected from the last storm.

Another concern officials are noting is ground saturation and the possibilty that with heavy winds, more trees could topple.

One tree reportedly fell on top of a car in Colusa, but for the most part, the two cities have not had to deal with more more than the usual localized flooding.

Streams and canals are running high and officials are watching those as well.