Sonoma County: Two people were found dead Sunday in floodwaters in the northern part of the US state of California, following a storm fueled by an atmospheric river that brought a record amount of rain. The heavy rainfall led to rivers and creeks overflowing, creating hazardous conditions on roads.

According to Anadolu Agency, officials reported both deaths on Saturday in Sonoma County, located approximately 60 miles north of San Francisco. The area experienced 20 inches of rain over three days, resulting in three times its usual November rainfall.

Atmospheric rivers are relatively long, narrow regions in the atmosphere that transport most of the water vapor outside of the tropics. These phenomena are often referred to as “rivers in the sky” and are characterized by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as significant contributors to heavy rainfall events, such as the one experienced in Northern California.

The intense rainfall and subsequent flooding have raised concerns among local authorit
ies and residents about the potential for further damage in the region. Emergency services have been working to manage the aftermath and assist those affected by the severe weather conditions.