◇ Program summary
1. San Francisco issues flash flood warning: emergency situation threatens life
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a flash flood warning for the city of San Francisco on Friday afternoon as a third consecutive day of atmospheric river storms swept across Northern California and the San Francisco Bay Area. The warning was effective from 12:43 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. The warning stated that rainfall in the affected areas has reached 0.5 to 1 inch, and an additional 1 to 3 inches of rainfall may be expected in the future. Flash floods have occurred in some areas. It may also affect streams and rivers, urban roads, highways and underpasses.
“This is a dangerous and life-threatening emergency. Do not attempt to travel unless evacuating from a flooded area or under an evacuation order,” the National Weather Service said in the alert.
The rainfall system is expected to stay in the Bay Area for 6 to 8 hours, with rainfall amounts of 3 to 5 inches possible around 7 p.m. For comparison, on December 31, 2022, San Francisco’s single-day rainfall reached 5.45 inches, the second highest rainfall record in history. At that time, parts of the highway were flooded, trees fell, mudslides closed roads, and even a small street park was washed away.
Local police reported flash flooding and “waterfalls” on Interstate 280, including near John Daly Boulevard and Washington Street. Troopers blocked some lanes of I-280 to prevent drivers from trying to cross the deep water. At the same time, strong winds accompanied by rainfall hit the city and the peninsula, with gusts reaching 30 to 40 miles per hour. The peninsula is also experiencing heavy rain.
Highway driving conditions have also become more dangerous. At noon, even before the heaviest rainfall arrived, the speed of southbound Highway 101 had slowed down significantly, visibility was low, and vehicles splashed a lot of water mist. In some sections, water accumulated on the right side of the road, causing traffic jams as vehicles merged into lanes.
Friday is expected to be the worst day of this atmospheric river storm in San Francisco, but the rain could continue into Tuesday.
San Francisco is under a flood warning until 8 p.m. Friday, with low-lying areas and areas with poor drainage particularly vulnerable.
2. Hundreds of flights were delayed at Bay Area airports due to storms, holiday travel was hampered
On Friday (November 22), hundreds of flights were delayed at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) due to severe storm weather, disrupting the first wave of holiday passengers.
A total of 350 flights were delayed at SFO on Friday morning, with another 50 canceled, according to FlightAware. According to airport officials, approximately 160,000 passengers traveled through SFO that day. About 500 flights were delayed at SFO Thursday due to bad weather.
The peak travel day during the Thanksgiving holiday will be Sunday, with an estimated 164,000 passengers arriving and departing through SFO. Airport spokesman Doug Yakel said, “An estimated 6.3 million passengers will pass through SFO from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, which is an increase of approximately 15% over the 2023 holiday season.”
By comparison, Oakland International Airport (OAK) reported only 23 flight delays on Friday, while San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC) had 32 delays. San Jose Airport officials said that from Friday, November 22 to Monday, December 2, SJC will experience heavy passenger traffic and parking peaks. The expected peak days include November 22, 26, 27 and December 1. On November 27, healing animals will parade through the terminal to bring Thanksgiving joy and “positive energy” to passengers.
The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours in advance for domestic flights and three hours in advance for international flights.
Nationwide, AAA predicts that approximately 79.9 million travelers will travel 50 miles or more during Thanksgiving this year. This is an increase of 1.7 million compared to last year and 2 million higher than in 2019.
Stacey Barber, AAA Vice President of Travel, said, “Thanksgiving is the busiest travel holiday of the year, and all modes of travel are expected to hit new records this year.” “Thanksgiving is an important time for Americans to reunite with family and friends, and travel is an important time for this. an important part of the tradition.”
3. Police said: 8 teenagers were arrested in connection with more than 20 retail theft cases
San Francisco police announced on Thursday (November 21) that eight teenagers were arrested in connection with more than 20 retail theft cases. Among them, the oldest is 18 years old and the youngest is only 12 years old. Investigators say the teenage gang committed at least 23 different crimes in San Francisco and stole more than $84,000 worth of merchandise from stores.
Police said the only adult in the case, 18-year-old Brandon McClain of Hayward, was charged with four counts of second-degree burglary, four counts of grand larceny, and four counts of grand larceny. Arrested on one count of organized retail theft. The youngest, a 12-year-old San Francisco boy, was charged with assault likely to cause serious bodily injury, three counts of second-degree robbery, seven counts of second-degree burglary, seven counts of grand larceny, 10 counts of organized retail theft and 4 counts of theft.
Other suspects were identified: three 14-year-old boys, one from Pittsburgh and two from San Francisco. The other three 15-year-old boys were from Oakland, Oakley and San Francisco. All remaining suspects face multiple charges, including second-degree burglary, theft and retail theft.
Because they are minors, their names have not been released.
McClain is being held without bail and his next court appearance is scheduled for Friday, according to jail records.
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## World Today News Live Interview: San Francisco Under Siege
**Host:** Welcome back to World Today News Live. Today, we’re focusing on the multiple challenges San Francisco is facing, from devastating weather to holiday travel disruptions and a disturbing rise in retail theft.
I’m joined today by two experts: [Name and title of first guest, e.g., Dr. Sarah Chen, Meteorologist], and [Name and title of second guest, e.g., Michael Jones, Security Analyst].
Welcome to both of you.
**[Section 1: The Storm’s Fury]**
**Host:** Dr. Chen, let’s begin with the storm currently ravaging San Francisco. The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning, calling the situation ”life-threatening.” Can you describe the severity of this atmospheric river event and what makes it unique?
**Dr. Chen:**
*Opportunity for Dr. Chen to discuss the intensity of the rainfall, the duration of the storm, and any unusual elements contributing to its severity. Comparison to historical data, like the December 2022 rainfall, would be relevant.*
**Host:** This storm is predicted to last several days, potentially impacting Thanksgiving travel. What areas are most vulnerable, and what advice do you have for residents coping with these conditions?
**Dr. Chen:**
*Opportunity for Dr. Chen to highlight specific regions prone to flooding, emphasize the importance of staying informed through weather updates, and offer practical safety tips for navigating flooded areas or power outages.*
**[Section 2: Travel Chaos and Holiday Disruptions]**
**Host:** Michael, the storm is already causing significant disruptions to air travel, including hundreds of delays and cancellations at San Francisco International Airport. With Thanksgiving travel already at its peak, what challenges do you anticipate passengers facing?
**Michael Jones:**
*Opportunity for Michael Jones to discuss the effects of the storm on air travel, potential delays and cancellations, and the overall impact on passenger travel plans. He could also mention other modes of transportation, like road travel and their expected challenges.*
**Host:** With millions of Americans traveling for Thanksgiving, what advice can you give to those navigating these travel disruptions? What steps can travelers take to minimize stress and ensure a smoother journey?
**Michael Jones:**
*Opportunity for Michael Jones to provide practical advice for travelers, such as checking flight statuses regularly, allowing for extra travel time, packing essentials in carry-on luggage, and utilizing technology like travel apps for updates.*
**[Section 3: A Troubling Rise in Retail Theft]**
**Host:** Shifting gears, we’ve also seen disturbing news about a group of teenagers arrested for involvement in over 20 retail theft cases. This incident raises important questions about youth crime and security in San Francisco. Dr. Chen, what factors might contribute to such a rise in retail theft, and what are the broader implications for the community?
**Dr. Chen:**
*Opportunity for Dr. Chen to delve into potential socio-economic factors contributing to youth crime, the impact of such crimes on businesses and community safety, and the need for comprehensive solutions involving law enforcement, social services, and community engagement.*
**Host:** Michael, what are some effective strategies for deterring retail theft and addressing the underlying issues driving these crimes?
**Michael Jones:**
*Opportunity for Michael Jones to discuss preventative measures retailers can implement, such as enhanced security systems, employee training, and community partnerships. He could also touch upon the importance of addressing poverty, lack of opportunities, and social inequalities as long-term solutions.*
**[Closing]**
**Host:** Thank you both for your valuable insights. These are undoubtedly challenging times for San Francisco, but through community collaboration, proactive measures, and informed decision-making, we can work towards overcoming these hurdles.
We encourage our viewers to stay informed, follow official guidelines, and prioritize safety during this time.
Stay tuned for more updates on World Today News Live.
