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Redding flash flooding leads to water rescues and 1 death; Shasta County declares emergency
Heavy rain and flash flooding soaked roads in Northern California, leading to water rescues from vehicles and homes and at least one confirmed death, authorities said Monday.In Redding, a city at the northern end of California’s Central Valley, one motorist died after calling 911 while trapped in their vehicle as it filled up with water, Mayor Mike Littau posted online Monday. Police said they received numerous calls for drivers stranded in flooded areas.“Redding police officer swam out into the water, broke the windows and pulled victim to shore. CPR was done but the person did not live,” Littau wrote.The Redding area saw between 3 and 6 inches of rain from Saturday through Sunday night, the National Weather Service said.Shasta County Sheriff Michael Johnson declared a state of emergency on Monday, which allows the state to assist the county with road conditions, search and rescue operations and hazard mitigation, the sheriff’s office said. As scattered showers lingered into Monday, some local roads remained flooded as street crews worked to clear debris and tow abandoned cars.Dekoda Cruz waded in knee-deep muddy water to check on a friend’s flooded tire business, where the office was littered with a jumble of furniture and bobbing tires.Redding’s mayor warned of even more dangerous weather in the coming days, and the city distributed free sand bags to residents in preparation for the next storm.The National Weather Service expects rain through the Christmas week as a series of atmospheric rivers was forecast to make its way through Northern California. A large swath of the Sacramento Valley and surrounding areas were under a flood watch through Friday.An atmospheric river is a long, narrow band of water vapor that forms over an ocean and flows through the sky, transporting moisture from the tropics to northern latitudes.The weather pattern was expected to intensify by midweek, which could lead to potential mudslides, rockslides and flooding of creeks and streams, forecasters warned. Up to 6 feet of snow was predicted for parts of the Sierra Nevada and winds could reach 55 mph (90 in high elevations by Wednesday.Travel in the mountain passes on Christmas day would be “difficult to near impossible,” the weather service said.Southern California can also expect a soggy Christmas, with some areas in Ventura County are forecast to get up to 11 inchesof rain by Saturday. Parts of Los Angeles, including areas with burn scars from the deadly Palisades fire, will be under evacuation warnings beginning Tuesday.The weather service urged people to make backup plans for holiday travel.Earlier this month, stubborn atmospheric rivers drenched Washington state with nearly 5 trillion gallons of rain in a week, threatening record flood levels, meteorologists said. That rainfall was supercharged by warm weather and air, plus unusual weather conditions tracing back as far as a tropical cyclone in Indonesia.REAL-TIME TRAFFIC MAPClick here to see our interactive traffic map.TRACK INTERACTIVE, DOPPLER RADARClick here to see our interactive radar.DOWNLOAD OUR APP FOR THE LATESTHere is where you can download our app.Follow our KCRA weather team on social mediaMeteorologist Tamara Berg on Facebook and X.Meteorologist Dirk Verdoorn on FacebookMeteorologist/Climate Reporter Heather Waldman on Facebook and X.Meteorologist Kelly Curran on X.Meteorologist Ophelia Young on Facebook and X.Watch our forecasts on TV or onlineHere’s where to find our latest video forecast. You can also watch a livestream of our latest newscast here. The banner on our website turns red when we’re live.We’re also streaming on the Very Local app for Roku, Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channelKCRA 3 staff and The Associated Press writer Jessica Hill in Las Vegas contributed to this report.
REDDING, Calif. —Heavy rain and flash flooding soaked roads in Northern California, leading to water rescues from vehicles and homes and at least one confirmed death, authorities said Monday.
In Redding, a city at the northern end of California’s Central Valley, one motorist died after calling 911 while trapped in their vehicle as it filled up with water, Mayor Mike Littau posted online Monday. Police said they received numerous calls for drivers stranded in flooded areas.
“Redding police officer swam out into the water, broke the windows and pulled victim to shore. CPR was done but the person did not live,” Littau wrote.
The Redding area saw between 3 and 6 inches of rain from Saturday through Sunday night, the National Weather Service said.
Shasta County Sheriff Michael Johnson declared a state of emergency on Monday, which allows the state to assist the county with road conditions, search and rescue operations and hazard mitigation, the sheriff’s office said.
This content is imported from Facebook.
You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.This content is imported from Facebook.
You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.As scattered showers lingered into Monday, some local roads remained flooded as street crews worked to clear debris and tow abandoned cars.
Dekoda Cruz waded in knee-deep muddy water to check on a friend’s flooded tire business, where the office was littered with a jumble of furniture and bobbing tires.
Redding’s mayor warned of even more dangerous weather in the coming days, and the city distributed free sand bags to residents in preparation for the next storm.
The National Weather Service expects rain through the Christmas week as a series of atmospheric rivers was forecast to make its way through Northern California. A large swath of the Sacramento Valley and surrounding areas were under a flood watch through Friday.
An atmospheric river is a long, narrow band of water vapor that forms over an ocean and flows through the sky, transporting moisture from the tropics to northern latitudes.
The weather pattern was expected to intensify by midweek, which could lead to potential mudslides, rockslides and flooding of creeks and streams, forecasters warned. Up to 6 feet of snow was predicted for parts of the Sierra Nevada and winds could reach 55 mph (90 in high elevations by Wednesday.
This content is imported from Facebook.
You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.Travel in the mountain passes on Christmas day would be “difficult to near impossible,” the weather service said.
Southern California can also expect a soggy Christmas, with some areas in Ventura County are forecast to get up to 11 inchesof rain by Saturday. Parts of Los Angeles, including areas with burn scars from the deadly Palisades fire, will be under evacuation warnings beginning Tuesday.
The weather service urged people to make backup plans for holiday travel.
Earlier this month, stubborn atmospheric rivers drenched Washington state with nearly 5 trillion gallons of rain in a week, threatening record flood levels, meteorologists said. That rainfall was supercharged by warm weather and air, plus unusual weather conditions tracing back as far as a tropical cyclone in Indonesia.
REAL-TIME TRAFFIC MAP
Click here to see our interactive traffic map.
TRACK INTERACTIVE, DOPPLER RADAR
Click here to see our interactive radar.
DOWNLOAD OUR APP FOR THE LATEST
Here is where you can download our app.
Follow our KCRA weather team on social media- Meteorologist Tamara Berg on Facebook and X.
- Meteorologist Dirk Verdoorn on Facebook
- Meteorologist/Climate Reporter Heather Waldman on Facebook and X.
- Meteorologist Kelly Curran on X.
- Meteorologist Ophelia Young on Facebook and X.
Watch our forecasts on TV or online
Here’s where to find our latest video forecast. You can also watch a livestream of our latest newscast here. The banner on our website turns red when we’re live.We’re also streaming on the Very Local app for Roku, Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV.
See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel
KCRA 3 staff and The Associated Press writer Jessica Hill in Las Vegas contributed to this report.
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Top 10 Movies to Watch While Flying
Have you ever peaked over the person next to you on a flight to see what they are watching. It’s always a risky move since you never know what people are into. Some people are okay with watching adult-rated movies and shows while on flights despite who could be looking over their shoulder. Plus, you don’t want to binge on anything that might make you anxious during your flight.. Like the pilot episode of ‘Lost’ or ‘Snakes on a Plane’.
If you have travel plans for the upcoming holiday, here’s a list of ten popular movies perfect for in-flight viewing.
Crazy Rich Asians
First up, “Crazy Rich Asians,” directed by Jon M. Chu, follows Rachel Chu, played by Constance Wu. As an economics professor, she deals with her boyfriend’s wealthy family’s many quirks. Set in Singapore, the movie captivates audiences with its charming visuals and intense family drama. This romantic comedy is often seen as essential airplane entertainment.
The Intern
“The Intern,” a film by Nancy Meyers, offers a different vibe. Robert De Niro stars as Ben Whittaker, an intern at a fashion startup run by Anne Hathaway’s character, Jules Ostin. It’s loved for its heartwarming tale and simplicity, making it a great flight option.
When Harry Met Sally…
Rob Reiner’s “When Harry Met Sally…” remains a classic. Starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, it examines if men and women can just be friends. This iconic romantic comedy engages viewers, making it a fine choice to watch again. With the recent passing of Rob Reiner and his wife, this rewatch will definitely hit differently around the holidays.
Titanic
James Cameron’s “Titanic,” with Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio, presents an epic love story against a disaster backdrop. We said watching flight disasters would be bad before a flight, but not cruise ship disasters. Its long runtime suits long flights well.
Avengers: Infinity War
The Marvel Cinematic Universe’s “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Endgame” offer a thrilling spectacle. The lengthy saga keeps viewers hooked as the Avengers clash with Thanos.
Ocean’s 8
For heist fans, “Ocean’s 8” delivers a gripping story with Sandra Bullock leading an all-female team in a daring Met Gala heist. The star-studded cast promises great fun.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding
“My Big Fat Greek Wedding” remains delightful, focusing on a Greek-American romance and funny family dynamics. Written by Nia Vardalos, the movie bursts with heartfelt and unforgettable moments.
Mamma Mia!
“Mamma Mia!” provides musical cheer set on a beautiful Greek island. With beloved songs and dancing, it creates a lively, enjoyable setting for travel viewing. Just try not to dance in your seat!
Up in the Air
In “Up in the Air,” starring George Clooney, viewers follow Ryan Bingham as he navigates job layoffs and a personal crisis. The film effectively blends comedy and drama.
Catch Me If You Can
Finally, Steven Spielberg’s “Catch Me If You Can” features Leonardo DiCaprio in an exciting cat-and-mouse chase. Based on a true story, it offers a delightful mix of humor and suspense, making it a solid in-flight pick.
Jen Glorioso
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This holiday travel season could be one of the busiest ever, AAA warns
Whether you’re traveling by plane, train or car this holiday season, get ready — AAA says this could be one of the busiest ever, and there’s a chance we could see some snow in the mix here in New England.
Nationally, more than 122 million Americans are expected to travel between now and January 1 — a new record.
Road trips dominate holiday travel plans once again this year — making up about 89 percent of all travelers. Gas prices are helping — for the first time in four years, the national average dropped below $3 a gallon. And we’re already starting to see the impact on the roads here in Boston. The worst traffic is expected between 1 and 7 p.m. over the next couple of days, so your best bet is to hit the road before 10 in the morning.
Many will be flying to their holiday destinations, and that means gifts. NBC10 Boston consumer investigative reporter Bianca Beltran says you may want to hold on to the wrapping paper, though. Here’s what you need to know.
The crowds are forming at Logan Airport, too. Triple A expects a record 8 million Americans are flying domestically — the most ever for year end travel — even though the average plane ticket around the holiday’s costs nearly $900. The busiest flying days are coming up — just before Christmas and again right after New Year’s.
Travelers we talked to on Sunday said so far, so good.
“Got through fast. I’m glad I flew out on a Sunday because I think it’s going to get a lot worse right pretty soon,” said Ben Sando, who was traveling from Washington, D.C.
“I’m in shorts. I’m ready. I’ve got my shorts on. We’re from Texas so I came prepared,” said Michael Prochaska.
There were around 150 delays at Logan Airport on Sunday, as well as a handful of cancellations.
If you are flying out of Boston, give yourself extra time, check in online, and keep a close eye on your airline’s app — especially with that weather coming in Tuesday.
Mary Markos
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Large Burmese python on video getting pulled from Florida neighborhood tree: ‘It was pretty dangerous’
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It was one Christmas visitor that didn’t overstay its welcome.
A Burmese python that had been spotted in a Miami-Dade neighborhood was removed just days before Christmas after a resident out for a walk located the snake hiding inside an areca palm next to a home and contacted a local snake wrangler.
The snake’s removal came after neighbors grew increasingly concerned about its proximity to homes, pets and children as the holidays approached.
Video from the scene captured stunned reactions from nearby residents as the python was pulled from the palm tree.
“Oh gosh, oh my gosh,” an unidentified woman can be heard gasping as the snake emerged.
FLORIDA WOMAN WINS ANNUAL PYTHON CHALLENGE WITH RECORD SNAKE HAUL
Humane Iguana Control pulls a Burmese python from an areca palm in a Florida neighborhood. (Courtesy of Humane Iguana Control)
Michael Ronquillo of Humane Iguana Control identified the snake on camera as a Burmese python and explained how it likely made its way into the residential area.
“So this is a Burmese python that was invading this neighborhood. It most likely came by one of the local canals. So we’re happy we were able to catch him,” Ronquillo said.
While residents appeared alarmed by the snake’s size, Ronquillo remained calm as he handled it.
“Yeah, I thought it would be bigger,” he said while wrangling the reptile.
Ronquillo said the python’s location made the situation especially dangerous because it was concealed deep inside an areca palm that sat directly next to a home.
“It was so deep into this areca palm that it could easily snatch someone’s pet or attack a human. Luckily a neighbor walking kept an eye on it to see where it hid,” Ronquillo said.
REPTILE HUNTER CLIMBS INTO APARTMENT BUILDING DUMPSTER TO REMOVE 16-FOOT PYTHON IN LOS ANGELES
A Burmese python is seen hiding beneath an areca palm in a Miami-Dade neighborhood in Florida before it was removed. (Courtesy of Humane Iguana Control)
“The areca palm was actually right next to the house, so it was pretty dangerous,” he added.
The python measured “roughly 6½ feet long and weighed about 30 pounds,” according to Ronquillo.
Residents were particularly worried about the potential danger to their families if the snake remained in the neighborhood.
“Since it’s not a very common occurrence, they were pretty shocked to see such a large snake in their neighborhood. They were mostly worried about pets and small children,” Ronquillo said. “They were also worried if it were to lay eggs it could have been much worse.”
Ronquillo explained that removing the snake was risky because of its position inside the palm.
“The position where I was hiding it was pretty dangerous since it was hard to determine where the head was with so many palm stocks that the areca has,” he said.
Michael Ronquillo poses with a Burmese python after it was removed from a Florida neighborhood. (Courtesy of Humane Iguana Control)
Despite the danger, Ronquillo said experience makes a difference.
“Doing iguana removal and python removals regularly, you just get used to handling them. It’s a thrill for us,” he said.
If the python had remained in the area, Ronquillo said it could have posed a serious threat to pets and wildlife.
“It would begin to consume cats and native animals such as possums and raccoons,” he said.
Ronquillo said python sightings in urban areas are becoming more common.
“It’s becoming to be pretty common, there’s been at least one to two removals every month in urban areas,” he said. “Roughly five months ago, we had removed another python in Doral which was causing panic as well.”
He warned residents not to attempt to handle a python on their own.
Michael Ronquillo of Humane Iguana Control holds a Burmese python after it was removed from a Miami-Dade neighborhood in Florida. (Courtesy of Humane Iguana Control)
“They have roughly 100 very sharp teeth oriented backwards [to] lock their prey,” Ronquillo said. “Getting [a] bite can be difficult to remove or deadly if the python is very big,” he added.
If residents spot a python, Ronquillo said they should avoid interfering.
“They should keep an eye on it and not harass it so it doesn’t scurry off,” he said. “And again [do] not attempt to capture if you don’t have the experience.”
Ronquillo said trained professionals are best equipped to handle invasive snakes safely.
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“Trained python removal companies like ourselves have the knowledge and expertise to get the job done correctly and safely,” he said.
“Being an invasive species, it’s also important to euthanize it humanely, as it states on FWC [Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission] website,” he added.
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Jet Set: Last-Minute Travel Gifts That Are Still Thoughtful
Canon SX740BK PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera
A pint-sized digital camera will take their travel photos to the next level. There are quite a few that you can order overnight or same-day delivery, but if you’re really in a pinch, you can always go grab a good disposable camera to give them in the meantime—it’s the thought that counts, and we all know that there’s nothing like a grainy disposable snap, anyway. But if you are able to score a better digital camera, this one should do the trick—it has 4K video recording, built-in wifi and Bluetooth tech and so much more.
Morgan Halberg
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American Airlines Just Added a Big New Restriction to Its Frequent Flyer Miles
As of earlier this week, American Airlines basic economy passengers will no longer receive frequent flyer miles or points for elite status, the carrier announced.
“We routinely evaluate our fare products to remain competitive in the marketplace,” the company said, according to CNBC. “Customers who purchase a Basic Economy ticket on December 17, 2025 and beyond will not earn AAdvantage miles or Loyalty Points towards AAdvantage status. Basic Economy customers will continue to receive one free personal item and one free carry-on bag, free snacks, soft drinks and in-flight entertainment.”
The Basic Economy Offering
Basic economy is American’s cheapest ticket offering, and it comes with the most restrictions. First introduced by Delta Air Lines in 2012, and American in 2017, the discounted option was a way for larger carriers to compete with budget airlines. Flyers with these tickets are required to pay a fee before they can change their ticket, their seats are typically assigned during flight check-in, and they are the last to board.
American’s move is part of a recent trend in airlines decreasing the perks associated with their lowest fare ticket options. The change echoes that of Delta, which said recently flyers with Delta Main Basic tickets would not earn Delta SkyMiles any longer. Similarly, United Airlines customers with basic economy tickets are only permitted one personal item onboard.
Higher Prices With Less Competition
According to Axios, the decision reflects American’s dominance in certain airports. The airline runs roughly 90 percent of flights in and out of Charlotte Douglas International Airport, making the airport its second-largest hub. Because of that, travelers have limited options for airlines and flights, and the airline ends up charging more for tickets.
From December 18 through January 5, American expects it will see over 11,700 flights in Charlotte, translating to more than 1.4 million tickets.
American’s elite loyalty members with economy tickets are still eligible for first-class upgrades on domestic flights, a spokesperson told CNBC.
Ava Levinson
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These are expected to be the busiest days to fly this holiday season
The holidays are set to pack runways and highways alike, with a record number of Americans on the move in late December.
An estimated 122.4 million people are expected to travel over the busy holiday period – between Dec. 20 and Jan. 1, according to AAA. Airlines expect 52.6 million passengers to pass through U.S. airports, while 110 million Americans will hit the roads.
But some days will see heavier travel than others. Here’s what you need to know.
Busiest air travel days
This year has already seen eight of the busiest travel days in TSA history, and a December date could join them. Dec. 1, 2024, is the only December date to make the top 10 list with 3,088,836 passengers screened.
These are expected to be the busiest travel days this holiday period, according to Airlines for America, a trade association that represents the airlines:
- Friday, Dec. 19
- Saturday, Dec. 20
- Sunday, Dec. 21
- Friday, Dec. 26
- Sunday, Dec. 28.
American Airlines says Friday, Dec. 19 will be its busiest travel day, operating more than 6,400 flights. Meanwhile, United Airlines expects the Saturday after Christmas to be its busiest, flying more than 10 million passengers this season.
About 2.9 million passengers will fly daily over the next two weeks, Airlines for America estimates.
Watch out for holiday travel scams
Lawmakers are issuing a dire new warning about travel-related scams, where fraudsters are creating fake websites and impersonating airlines and hotels. The goal is to trick you into paying for fake reservations – or even to steal your identity.
Some of these bad actors are using links that appear to be from a major airline with a link to rebook your travel. Don’t click on any links sent from unknown parties or visit any third-party sites that aren’t reputable.
Here are some ways to protect yourself from scammers:
- Use your airline’s official apps for the latest information or phone numbers
- Be on the lookout for fake customer service numbers
- Be mindful about what you post on social media, as scammers can easily pose as customer service representatives to try to trick you
“Criminals are persistent during the holiday season, targeting travelers with scams involving fraudulent car rentals, airline tickets, hotel reservations, and more. Recognizing these schemes is an important step toward protecting millions of Americans and safeguarding billions of dollars,” Kathy Stokes, AARP senior director of fraud prevention, said in a statement.
If you are being pressured to act quickly, and if the price is too good to be true, it probably is.
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American Airlines stops offering miles and other rewards for basic economy fares
Members of American Airlines’ loyalty program will no longer earn miles or other travel rewards when purchasing a basic economy ticket.
People enrolled in the carrier’s AAdvantage program previously earned two miles and loyalty points for each dollar they spent on a regular fare. Now they will only earn points if they buy a more expensive ticket.
The new policy, which American Airlines announced on Thursday, is effective as of Dec. 17.
“We routinely evaluate our fare products to remain competitive in the marketplace,” American Airlines said in a statement to CBS News. “Customers who purchase a basic economy ticket on December 17, 2025, and beyond will not earn AAdvantage miles or Loyalty Points towards AAdvantage status. Basic Economy customers will continue to receive one free personal item and one free carry-on bag, free snacks, soft drinks and in-flight entertainment.”
Over the past decade, major airlines introduced bare-bones tickets with few perks to better compete with budget carriers. For example, purchasers of a basic economy ticket generally cannot reserve seats without charge, can’t change their itineraries without paying a fee and are last to board flights.
In its most recent quarter, American Airlines lost $114 million on revenue of $13.7 billion, according to a regulatory filing.
“American has been trying to find this sweet spot with basic economy fares where it wants them to be available, but doesn’t want people who might otherwise book more expensive fares to be booking them,” Scott Keyes, founder of travel deals website Going.com, told CBS News. “So they are rolling back some perks and benefits associated with them to make them less appealing to people who could decide, ‘I’ll pay an extra $40 to be in main economy rather than basic.’”
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Loveholidays just launched a huge sale for 2026 breaks – here’s a travel editor’s favourite hotels from it
Black Friday might be long gone, but it’s not too late to secure yourself a 2026 holiday on sale. Why, I hear you ask? Because online travel agent Loveholidays has launched its New Year sale early, with deals on holidays throughout 2026. Think resorts in Rhodes, skyscrapers in Dubai, beachfront hotels in the Canary Islands and even city breaks across the pond in the likes of New York and Las Vegas.
You have the flexibility to secure a holiday for next year with deposits starting from just £19 per person and convenient pay-monthly plans. In short, you can lock it in now before the Christmas madness and worry about the finer details next year. You can also challenge the brand on its price promise, through which it offers to beat any deal on the same holiday if you find it cheaper elsewhere.
As Creative Content Writer at HELLO!, I write about must-visit hotels across the globe on a weekly basis. So, I guess you could say I have a strong nose for a good hotel – plus the ability to decipher which ones will give you bang for your buck.
These are my top hotels to visit in 2026 from the Loveholidays sale…
Crete might just be my favourite of all the Greek islands – and next on my hit list when I visit is the five-star Akasha. It’s a high-end boutique hotel that features lots of light wood and azure accents.
The architecture is sleek and contemporary, with many rooms featuring private outdoor hot tubs or plunge pools on the balconies. As beautiful as the rest of the island is, I probably won’t want to leave the resort.
This hotel feels straight out of The Flintstones. It is designed to look like a mountain of stone and rock – and as such, there are no traditional hotel corridors. Instead, you walk through dimly lit, cave-like passages.
Every room (or cave, should I say) features rock-textured walls, wooden accents and furniture carved to look like stone. It’s visually quirky, actually fun and adult-only… my kind of place.
The vibe of the Paramount in New York City is a mix of theatrical glamour and traditional ‘boutique’ energy, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Times Square.
Think of it as a base camp for exploring the Big Apple. And in my opinion, the central location makes it perfect for first time visitors to the city as you’ll be right in the middle of the action.
I’m staying at this hotel in Dubai in spring and I cannot wait. It’s swanky, in a prime position on the Palm and has uber-modern rooms.
The vibe is like Scandinavian simplicity had a baby with Dubai luxury: lots of light wood, floor-to-ceiling windows and neutral tones. Catch me on the sun loungers by that glistening pool.
Flamingo – Las Vegas, USA
With decor consisting of neon pink, green and gold, this hotel screams Vegas. It’s an iconic landmark that’s unashamedly bold and bright, with massive updates planned for its 80th anniversary next year.
And if the vibe wasn’t unique enough, the hotel is home to an actual 15-acre tropical garden in the middle of the desert, complete with real Chilean flamingos, exotic birds and turtles. It’s somewhat of a peaceful, lush pocket inside a crazy city.
Josie O’Brien
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Atmospheric river forecast update: Rain, wind and snow could disrupt plans during Christmas week
Northern California’s weeks-long dry spell is about to break in a big way. Storm systems will send atmospheric river moisture to the region starting this weekend. Rounds of heavy rain and snow are expected through at least Christmas Day. Sunday, Monday and Wednesday are KCRA 3 weather Impact Days. Thursday is now a KCRA 3 weather Alert Day. Wet and breezy conditions are becoming increasingly likely each of those days for the Valley and Foothills. The Sierra will see mainly rain through Tuesday, but heavy snow is now expected Wednesday and Thursday.Leer en español. How much rain?Atmospheric river moisture will be a major ingredient in next week’s weather setup. That means rain will be persistent and sometimes heavy, especially in the hills. Rain totals will be highest in the Sierra and upper Foothills. Places like Blue Canyon could see up to 15 inches of rain from Saturday night through Wednesday. Placerville, Nevada City, Sonora and other communities in the Foothills could close to 10 inches of rain. The Sacramento Valley could see up to 6 inches of rain through Thursday. Areas in the San Joaquin Valley could see up to 5 inches of rain. Will there be flooding?Recent dry weather means all of the region’s basins and reservoirs have plenty of room to take in runoff as rain begins. Creeks will rise Sunday and Monday, but flooding is not expected. Tuesday’s break in the steady rain will allow time for creeks and streams to recede. Heavy rounds of rain could lead to some creek flooding Wednesday and Thursday. When will there be snow? Snow is badly needed in the Sierra, it’s finally in the forecast. The summits could see feet of powder later next week. Snow levels Saturday, Sunday and Monday will mainly stay above the passes. The exception could be during the overnight hours when temperatures could be just cold enough for snow at the summits. Tuesday is when the snow level may drop enough snow to fall at the summits, but precipitation will likely be light on Tuesday as the best moisture shifts north. Travel delays and chain controls are more likely Wednesday and Thursday of next week. These are days to avoid mountain travel if possible. REAL-TIME TRAFFIC MAPClick here to see our interactive traffic map.TRACK INTERACTIVE, DOPPLER RADARClick here to see our interactive radar.DOWNLOAD OUR APP FOR THE LATESTHere is where you can download our app.Follow our KCRA weather team on social mediaMeteorologist Tamara Berg on Facebook and X.Meteorologist Dirk Verdoorn on FacebookMeteorologist/Climate Reporter Heather Waldman on Facebook and X.Meteorologist Kelly Curran on X.Meteorologist Ophelia Young on Facebook and X.Watch our forecasts on TV or onlineHere’s where to find our latest video forecast. You can also watch a livestream of our latest newscast here. The banner on our website turns red when we’re live.We’re also streaming on the Very Local app for Roku, Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV.
Northern California’s weeks-long dry spell is about to break in a big way. Storm systems will send atmospheric river moisture to the region starting this weekend. Rounds of heavy rain and snow are expected through at least Christmas Day.
Sunday, Monday and Wednesday are KCRA 3 weather Impact Days. Thursday is now a KCRA 3 weather Alert Day. Wet and breezy conditions are becoming increasingly likely each of those days for the Valley and Foothills. The Sierra will see mainly rain through Tuesday, but heavy snow is now expected Wednesday and Thursday.
How much rain?
Atmospheric river moisture will be a major ingredient in next week’s weather setup. That means rain will be persistent and sometimes heavy, especially in the hills.
Rain totals will be highest in the Sierra and upper Foothills. Places like Blue Canyon could see up to 15 inches of rain from Saturday night through Wednesday.
Placerville, Nevada City, Sonora and other communities in the Foothills could close to 10 inches of rain.
The Sacramento Valley could see up to 6 inches of rain through Thursday. Areas in the San Joaquin Valley could see up to 5 inches of rain.
Will there be flooding?
Recent dry weather means all of the region’s basins and reservoirs have plenty of room to take in runoff as rain begins. Creeks will rise Sunday and Monday, but flooding is not expected.
Tuesday’s break in the steady rain will allow time for creeks and streams to recede. Heavy rounds of rain could lead to some creek flooding Wednesday and Thursday.
When will there be snow?
Snow is badly needed in the Sierra, it’s finally in the forecast. The summits could see feet of powder later next week.
Snow levels Saturday, Sunday and Monday will mainly stay above the passes. The exception could be during the overnight hours when temperatures could be just cold enough for snow at the summits.
Tuesday is when the snow level may drop enough snow to fall at the summits, but precipitation will likely be light on Tuesday as the best moisture shifts north. Travel delays and chain controls are more likely Wednesday and Thursday of next week. These are days to avoid mountain travel if possible.
REAL-TIME TRAFFIC MAP
Click here to see our interactive traffic map.
TRACK INTERACTIVE, DOPPLER RADAR
Click here to see our interactive radar.
DOWNLOAD OUR APP FOR THE LATEST
Here is where you can download our app.
Follow our KCRA weather team on social media- Meteorologist Tamara Berg on Facebook and X.
- Meteorologist Dirk Verdoorn on Facebook
- Meteorologist/Climate Reporter Heather Waldman on Facebook and X.
- Meteorologist Kelly Curran on X.
- Meteorologist Ophelia Young on Facebook and X.
Watch our forecasts on TV or online
Here’s where to find our latest video forecast. You can also watch a livestream of our latest newscast here. The banner on our website turns red when we’re live.
We’re also streaming on the Very Local app for Roku, Apple TV or Amazon Fire TV. -
Blind traveller reveals what life is like for her on board a Pacific cruise
Snow-capped mountains, narrow fjords and calving glaciers.
Alaska is known for its beautiful coastline, where ships sail past its colourful, waterside houses and the vast Tongass National Forest.
But for blind traveller Sassy Wyatt, her experience of a cruise around the Pacific Ocean centres around sounds and feelings rather than sights.
‘The first time I heard a whale spout, it silenced an entire catamaran.
‘I couldn’t see the whales rising, but I didn’t need to; the sound was enough. The hush that followed said everything,’ Sassy told The Independent.
‘It turns out, not everything needs to be seen to be felt.’
On a Princess Cruises tour with her husband, Grant, Sassy said staff introduced themselves by name, a small gesture that helped her familiarise herself with who was speaking without seeing them.
And this wasn’t the only accessibility feature Sassy recalled.
Alaska is known for its beautiful coastline, where ships sail past its colourful, waterside houses and the vast Tongass National Forest
On a Princess Cruises tour with her husband, Grant, Sassy said staff introduced themselves by name, a small gesture that helped her familiarise herself with who was speaking without seeing them
She noted that the cabin steward remembered where Sassy left things and the menus were read aloud, patiently and in full.
‘Accessibility wasn’t treated like an awkward afterthought. It was built into the design: braille and tactile numbers outside every cabin, audio announcements in lifts, braille signage where you’d want it,’ she said.
Sassy even took part in a high-wire course and while she couldn’t see the view, she felt it and was able to build the picture in her mind.
Whale watching for Sassy was all about the sound and atmosphere.
She said: ‘Or guide Matt’s commentary painted pictures I could follow: the history of the land, the rhythms of the sea, the anticipation of a sighting.
‘And when the humpback whales finally breached, it was the collective gasp of the passengers, the sudden spray, the quiet awe that stayed with me.’
It comes as a British couple sold everything to travel the world with their disabled son.
The pair had struggled with finding appropriate groups and educational settings for their son that supported his specialist needs.
Whale watching for Sassy was all about the sound and atmosphere
But now their kids are ‘learning Vietnamese’, ‘bathing elephants’, ‘climbing waterfalls’ and ‘sleeping in the jungle’.
So Dan, 32, and Lou, 31, sold their home in Congleton, Cheshire, and took their children out of school to take a one-way flight to Asia this summer.
The couple booked a one-way flight to Bangkok, stayed for a month there before moving to Chiang Mai and Phuket, and are now in Penang in Malaysia.
The family is now exploring Southeast Asia – and Dan and Lou have been documenting their travels on social media.
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Doctor mysteriously found dead inside Dollar Tree freezer reportedly naked
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A female doctor was mysteriously found dead and possibly naked inside a freezer at a Dollar Tree store in Miami, Florida, on Sunday, according to police and media reports.
An employee at the discount store’s Little Havana location reported discovering a “deceased woman inside the business” during opening hours at 8 a.m., the Miami Police Department told Fox News Digital on Monday. The woman was identified as 32-year-old Helen Massiell Garay Sanchez.
“Female was located inside a walk-in freezer/cooler located in the store’s stockroom,” Public Information Officer Michael Vega said.
Sanchez was also naked when she was discovered, CBS News reported, citing police scanners.
BRIAN WALSHE CONVICTED OF MURDERING WIFE AFTER NEW YEAR’S DAY DISAPPEARANCE
Helen Massiell Garay Sanchez, originally from Nicaragua, was an anesthesiologist specializing in congenital heart disease. (GoFundMe)
“Complainant found a naked female in the cooler of the store,” dispatchers were heard saying over police scanners.
Authorities added that surveillance footage indicated no foul play was involved. The investigation remains ongoing. It also remains unclear why Sanchez entered the restricted stockroom area.
According to a GoFundMe page, Sanchez was an anesthesiologist specializing in congenital heart disease and was originally from Nicaragua. Her friends and family are now working to have her body returned to her home country, where her two children live.
FIRED MICHIGAN COACH SHERRONE MOORE ACCUSED OF STALKING VICTIM ‘FOR MONTHS’ IN POLICE DISPATCH AUDIO
Helen Massiell Garay Sanchez reportedly died during a trip to the U.S. from Nicaragua on Dec. 14, 2025. (GoFundMe)
“Dr. Helen Garay passed away following a tragic accident while abroad,” the GoFundMe page said. “Her family’s greatest wish is to bring her back to Nicaragua for a proper funeral and final resting place, surrounded by her loved ones. The family is currently raising funds to cover the costs of repatriation, transportation, and funeral services in Nicaragua.”
A person walks past a Dollar Tree store on Nov. 23, 2021, in Los Angeles, California. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)
Roughly $9,200 had been raised as of Monday evening to support the late doctor’s family.
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The Dollar Tree store remained closed during the investigation but reopened later Sunday, according to the Daily Mail.
Dollar Tree did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital.
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Hiker mired in quicksand in Utah’s Arches National Park is rescued unharmed
Getting trapped in quicksand is a corny peril of old movies and TV shows, but it really did happen to one unfortunate hiker in Utah’s Arches National Park.
The park famous for dozens of natural, sandstone arches gets over 1 million visitors a year, and accidents ranging from falls to heat stroke are common.
Quicksand? Not really — but it has happened at least a couple of times now.
“The wet sand just kind of flows back in. It’s kind of a never-ending battle,” said John Marshall, who helped a woman stuck in quicksand over a decade ago and coordinated the latest rescue.
On Sunday, an experienced hiker, whose identity wasn’t released, was traversing a small canyon on the second day of a 20-mile (32-kilometer) backpacking trip when he sank up to his thigh, according to Marshall.
Unable to free himself, the hiker activated an emergency satellite beacon. His message got forwarded to Grand County emergency responders and Marshall got the call at 7:15 a.m..
“I was just rolling out of bed,” Marshall said. “I’m scratching my head, going, ‘Did I hear that right? Did they say quicksand?’”
He put his boots on and rendezvoused with a team that set out with all-terrain vehicles, a ladder, traction boards, backboards and a drone. Soon, Marshall had a bird’s-eye view of the situation.
Through the drone camera he saw a park ranger who’d tossed the man a shovel. But the quicksand flowed back as soon as the backpacker shoveled it away, Marshall said.
The Grand County Search and Rescue team positioned the ladder and boards near the backpacker and slowly worked his leg loose. By then he’d been standing in near-freezing muck, in temperatures in the 20s (minus 6 to minus 1 Celsius), for a couple of hours.
Rescuers warmed him up until he could stand, then walk. He then hiked out on his own, even carrying his backpack, Marshall said.
Quicksand is dangerous but it’s a myth total submersion is the main risk, said Marshall.
“In quicksand you’re extremely buoyant,” he said. “Most people won’t sink past their waist in quicksand.”
Marshall is more or less a quicksand expert.
In 2014, he was a medic who helped a 78-year-old woman after she was stuck for over 13 hours in the same canyon just 2 miles (3 kilometers) from where Sunday’s rescue took place.
The woman’s book club got worried when she missed their meeting. They went looking for her and found her car at a trailhead. It was June — warmer than Sunday but not sweltering in the canyon’s shade — and the woman made a full recovery after regaining use of her legs.
“Both had very happy endings,” Marshall said.
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The typical Airbnb host in Philly will earn $1,900 during the World Cup, report predicts
An estimated 17,000 Airbnb users will book stays in the Philadelphia region during the World Cup, generating $167 million in revenue for the region, a new report finds. Hosts are expected to make $8 million, or $1,900 each.
Kristin Hunt
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EZQuest UltraSlim 70W Wall Charger Review
The EZQuest UltraSlim 70W GaN II Dual USB-C charger (official page) targets users who want real laptop-class charging performance in a design that is significantly thinner than traditional power bricks. Its official highlights include a maximum output of 70 watts, two USB-C Power Delivery ports, and an ultra-slim profile that EZQuest claims is more compact and practical than most competing 45 to 70-watt chargers. These claims are attractive on paper, and this review verifies how the charger performs in real-world conditions, including laptop charging, dual-device charging, heat management, and overall practicality.
Design
The UltraSlim 70W has a very distinctive design. It is incredibly flat, only 13 millimeters thick, and shaped like a small plate rather than a cube. Competing compact chargers often use cube-like shapes that protrude significantly from the wall. In contrast, the EZQuest charger sits close to the outlet and keeps the cable pointing downward.
This design is, in my opinion, particularly useful when traveling. On airplanes, seat outlets are often located in front of you, in a cramped area. Cube chargers stick out and tend to get bumped or kicked when people move in and out of the row. I have had two chargers damaged this way. The flat design reduces exposure and dramatically lowers the chance of accidental impact. Behind furniture or in tight corners, the design is also more practical and easier to manage.
When packed in a bag or pocket, the UltraSlim 70W takes up very little space. The flat shape uses space more efficiently than cube chargers of similar total volume. Although some competitors are slightly smaller in absolute volume, the UltraSlim 70W is more portable in real usage. The build quality is fair, and the plastic housing feels similar to many high-end competitors in this category.
Overall, the design is not only different but also superior for travel and daily portability. It is reasonable to expect that other brands will eventually adopt similar form factors.
Charging Performance
Laptop charging
During testing, the EZQuest UltraSlim delivered up to 68 watts while charging a MacBook Pro. This is very close to the advertised 70 watt output. The charger stayed cool during extended sessions, an impressive feat for a device of this size. Many thin chargers tend to heat up quickly under full load, but this one manages heat very well.
Modern thin & light laptops that require 60-65 watts can run and charge at full performance with this charger. For computers that typically ship with a larger power supply, like my Macbook Pro 140W charger, the 70W can sustain the battery if used for light tasks. From a laptop charging perspective, the UltraSlim meets expectations.
Smartphone and tablet charging
Smartphones behave differently. Many of them rely on proprietary fast charging protocols that are not part of USB Power Delivery. As a result, they will not reach their maximum rated speeds. In practice:
- Honor Magic V5 charged at about 25 watts (the manufacturer charger can reach 66 watts)
- Galaxy S24 Ultra charged at about 33 watts
- Recent iPhones typically charge at around ~20 watts
The UltraSlim still charges phones “quickly”, but not at manufacturer proprietary peak speeds (50W for Samsung, 66W for Honor). This is normal for a third-party USB-PD charger.
Dual device charging and behavior
The charger supports two devices at the same time, but power allocation is not -that- dynamic. EZQuest specifies that the charger uses one of two configurations: 35 watts plus 35 watts, or 45 watts plus 20 watts.
In real use, when charging a MacBook Pro and a smartphone together, the laptop drew about 35 watts and the phone drew about 20 watts. Even though the laptop alone previously drew 68 watts, the charger clearly switched into the 35 watt plus 35 watt mode. This is fine for two smaller devices, such as two phones or a phone and a tablet, but users should not expect full laptop power while a second device is connected.
The cable is not included. For best performance, a high-quality USB-C cable is required, ideally an e-marked cable that supports 60 to 100 watt charging. These days, it’s very easy to find (relatively) affordable USB-C cables rated for 240W.
Competitivity
Among chargers in the 45-70 watt category, the UltraSlim stands out for its form factor. A cube-shaped charger with a similar power output often occupies more physical space when plugged in, even though its technical volume is smaller. The flat design is more practical in real conditions.
Compared with standard 70 watt chargers from major brands, the EZQuest charger is significantly smaller and easier to carry. Multi-port GaN chargers from other brands provide more ports or higher total wattage, but they are physically larger and less convenient for travel.
“THE ULTRASLIM STANDS OUT FOR ITS FORM FACTOR”
The lack of a USB-A port may disappoint some users, but adding one would likely require additional thickness, undermining the design. A USB-C-to-USB-A adapter can solve this if needed.
There are very inexpensive 65 or 100 watt GaN chargers from unknown brands, but reliability and long-term safety vary widely. When connecting an expensive laptop or smartphone, many users prefer a trusted brand. Within this context, the EZQuest UltraSlim competes on design, real performance, and practical portability rather than sheer port count or raw watt-per-dollar metrics.
If price is a concern, don’t worry about the $49.99 MSRP. You can find this product on Amazon for $19.99 (at the time of publication). See review header link.
Conclusion
The EZQuest UltraSlim 70W is an excellent option for travellers and anyone who needs a compact charger that powers a modern laptop. It performs near its rated 70 watts, it stays cool under load, and it offers a unique flat design that solves real problems in tight spaces or crowded environments. Smartphone charging is limited by USB-PD standards, not by the charger itself.
If design does not matter, there are cheaper alternatives, although many are from unknown brands. If you carry an expensive laptop or phone, paying a little more for a reliable and well-designed charger feels justified. The UltraSlim 70W delivers a compelling balance of performance, portability, and safety that few chargers in this power range can match.
Highs
- Ultra-thin, flat, and extremely travel-friendly design
- Nearly full-rated power (≈68 W) under real load
- Cool thermal behavior even under sustained laptop draw
- Much more compact than standard 60–70 W chargers
Lows
- No cable included — you must supply a quality USB-C PD cable yourself
- Power sharing is not fully dynamic — dual-device charging reduces per-device wattage
- Phone charging limited to USB-PD standard speeds (no proprietary fast charging)
Rating + Price
- Rating: 9.2/10
- Price: ~$19.99
- Available on Amazon
Hubert Nguyen
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3 Digital Nomad And Crypto Friendly Debit Cards – Revisited – Dragos Roua
A while ago I wrote a mini-review for 3 digital nomad friendly debit cards. The rationale was that location independent peeps need better money tools than your usual, vanilla debit card. You need to make sure your card works in as many countries as possible, you need to have flexible limits settings and, if possible, you need to have extra services packed in (spoiler: Revolut leads big time here). Also, a big plus would be a decent crypto access layer.
Before going forward with today’s post, which is mostly a checkpoint to see how these cards are doing lately, please be aware I’m not doing this very frequently. As a matter of fact, the last post I am referring to was written more than 5 years ago. So this is not your weekly churn of product reviews, it’s my personal experience with tools I’m using daily. Also, full disclosure, some of the links I’m using are affiliate links, so I might get some commission if you engage.
Wise
During the last 5 years, TransferWise became Wise. But other than the name compaction, nothing changed. Wise remained a very stable financial tool, one that I’ve been using consistently across a couple of continents and at least 5 countries.
What you get with Wise? A physical card, as many virtual cards as you want, an app, holding and converting money in 40+ currencies, local bank accounts in 9 countries, and a very, very good UX. Business accounts get all retail features, plus a nice boost in local bank accounts, from 9 to 19. An interesting feature of Wise is that you get a little bit of cashback at the end of the month, based on how much money you held during this interval. So your money actually multiplies – not by a lot, but still.
They have a referral program in place, which gives both you and the referred user $15 in fees – which is quite nice if you use the tool a lot. If you didn’t sign up yet (highly unlikely, given Wise popularity, but who knows) you can sign up for Wise here.
All in all, Wise is my de facto standard for location independence.
Revolut
They didn’t change name since 5 years ago, so they’re still called Revolut. But that’s pretty much the only thing that stayed the same – almost everything else improved. Revolut tried to position itself from the very beginning as a service provider, not only a transfer money tool. They offered many additional services like stock trading, vaults (for savings) and, more recently, crypto trading and Rev points. And this continuous improvement approach paid back, now Revolut is way more than a debit card, is a “fat financial app”, or a “super app”.
As such, you will actually pay for these services on a monthly basis, and based on the card type you choose: Plus, Premium, Metal and Ultra (at the time of writing). So be aware that Revolut incurs monthly costs, something that Wise doesn’t.
A few words about Rev points: they’re basically a loyalty feature, the more you spend with Revolut, the more Rev points you get. The nice part is you get to spend these on actual services. For a location independent, these services are pure gold: Miles, eSim, Lounges or Experiences (there are more, feel free to search for yourself).
I personally use the Lounges feature consistently, as I still get to travel a lot, between Vietnam and Portugal, and I had good experiences. It’s nice to see you get a sleepover in an airport like Doha, on that 24-hour-long flight between Asia and Europe, and you pay for it with Rev points.
Another very interesting feature of Revolut is their crypto layer. You can seamlessly convert from crypto to fiat, or buy crypto with fiat. The service, piloted for 2-3 years on a limited set of chains, is now solid and it also has a more than decent UX, meaning it’s very, very easy to use.
They have their own referral program in place, but it works a bit differently: they have “streaks” during which the rewards are fixed. At the moment of writing, you get $50 for anyone referred to Revolut, with an extra $25 when they sign up for Pro.
All in all, Revolut is my choice of mobile financial services, with a nice debit card layer on top of it.
If you haven’t signed up for Revolut (again, highly unlikely) you can get your Revolut card here.
Krak
With this, we’re getting to the crypto-first cards, and I confess I had a hard time to make my choice. The reason: they literally exploded over the last 2 years. As you probably noticed, the legal landscape around crypto changed consistently across the world, with each continent having specific regulations in place. As a result, more and more providers of hybrid crypto plus traditional finance products are popping up, almost every week.
If you’re not familiar with this kind of product, well, it’s a regular card wrapped by Visa or MasterCard, but with specific crypto features, like converting crypto to crypto, fiat to crypto or crypto to fiat. Most of these products rely on stablecoins as the liquidity layer between crypto and fiat. Almost all of them have some cashback mechanism, or at least basic staking features – basically getting interest if you block your money in a “savings account”.
I picked Krak, a card offered by the exchange Kraken, because it is one of the oldest and most respected crypto exchanges out there. Also, the product has a very good UX (almost on par with Wise, at least for me) which makes it feel like spending native currencies, not crypto. You can also make some small gains, if you’re using their staking services, but I honestly stay away from this, and I don’t endorse it in any way – unless you are really, really well educated and you know what you’re doing. If you are, then you know it’s well worth it.
They have a nice referral program in place, where you can get up to $400 (combined) in rewards.
You can get your Krak card here.
The Contenders
As I said above, hybrid crypto + fiat cards are popping up literally every week. I put together a (heavily) filtered list of interesting products in this area. These products are primarily suited for digital nomads who are also familiar with the crypto ecosystem.
- Cypher – cross-chain card that also has its own token
- Fuse Card – Solana based card on top of the Fusewallet
- Tap – Multi chain card, with generous cashback program
As the market evolves, expect that some of these will change or become obsolete.
Final Thoughts
The most important change related to debit cards was by far the crypto compliance wave. This offers indeed more freedom, more flexibility and even more potential abundance, as the crypto world is slowly getting out of the shadows and validates itself as a mainstream finance avenue.
dragos@dragosroua.com (Dragos Roua)
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Taking a trip back through history with Delta
The Delta Flight Museum in Atlanta, Georgia, is packed with historical items from the company’s earliest days in the air. “CBS Saturday Morning” takes a trip down memory lane with a special peek inside the museum’s archives.
