The storm leaves damage and threatens roads throughout the Central Valley

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Rain fell in Merced on Friday evening before the storm made its way through the Central Valley to Fresno early Saturday morning.

According to the California Highway Patrol, officers have responded to calls about debris falling on vehicles and roads since the storm reached Fresno County.

The wet weather also increases the risk of skids and accidents.

“This is our first major storm ever. So there’s so much oil and debris on the roads again, making the roads a little more slippery for our commuters,” says Mike Salas of the California Highway Patrol.

The CHP has increased the number of patrol officers ahead of the holidays and more drivers are expected to be on the road. Authorities are urging everyone to be aware of their surroundings.

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

Fresno resident Grace Klassen pays attention to this.

“I definitely take my time on the streets. It seems like some of these drains are clogged and there are big puddles forming,” said Klassen.

We met Mayor Jerry Dyer Saturday morning at One Table Fresno’s community dinner and coat raffle.

Due to the wet weather the event was moved indoors.

Dyer said city crews have been on the lookout for additional potential problems that could be caused by this wave of rain showers as they prepare for additional events in the coming days.

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

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

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