HCAO Requirements

San Francisco contractors and tenants (including those at the city’s international airport and port) must offer minimum health benefits at no cost to covered employees under the HCAO. The ordinance applies to employees who work at least 20 hours per week on a city contract or city property. Employees working on a San Francisco contract are covered, even if their contract work is done outside the city.

Minimum Standards
Effective Jan. 1, 2020, updated minimum standards from the Office of Standards and Labor Enforcement (OLSE) require plans to cover all services listed in California’s current essential health benefit (EHB) benchmark plan. The standards apply to employee-only coverage and don’t include or require dental or vision benefits. The OLSE also has released an updated poster that employers must conspicuously display in each San Francisco worksite by July 1, 2019.

Employers must annually obtain covered employees’ signed acknowledgment of a HCAO statement of rights. Employees may waive their coverage rights by signing the appropriate form. All notices and posters must be available in English, Spanish, Chinese, and any other language spoken by at least 5% of the employees at the workplace or job site.

2020 Limits
Besides covering EHBs, a contractor’s health plan must comply with the following standards:

• Employers must pay for 100% of the coverage with no employee contributions.
• The maximum in-network deductible of $2,000 ($200 for prescriptions drugs) must include 100% of actual expenditures that count toward the medical deductible, regardless of plan type and level.
• The maximum in-network, out-of-pocket maximum (OOPM) expense of $7,850 for 2020 must include all types of cost sharing (deductible, copays, coinsurance, etc.).
• Participants’ cost sharing must be capped at 20% for in-network treatment and 50% for out-of-network care.
• Primary care copayments can’t exceed $45.

Employers may use any health savings/reimbursement product that complies with the minimum OOPM standard, and all gold- and platinum-level plans are deemed compliant, according to the Department of Public Health’s clarifications. Employers can offer other contributory options but must make at least one plan available at no cost to covered employees that meets minimum standards.

Alternative Payment
Effective July 1, 2019, HCAO-covered employers that don’t provide minimum benefits must pay the city an additional $5.40 per hour for covered employees who live or work in San Francisco. For covered employees who live or work outside San Francisco, employers must make these payments directly to the employees. The payment is capped at $216 per workweek.

This rate is annually adjusted for inflation on July 1. Employers should remit these amounts along with the HCAO Payment Option Form. 

The post San Francisco Updates Contractors’ Well being Requirements, Pay Charges appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

by Editor • October 6, 2023

South San Francisco, CA  October 6, 2023 by Mike Pizzo

SSFAC returns home this Sunday, October 8th

to face Dublin Celtic FC @ Colt Field on the campus of El Camino High.

Game time is 10:30am

FREE & FUN TO WATCH –

After beginning their season with a 2-2 tie vs JASA RWC Reserves, and a defeat by league leaders Santa Clara Sporting by a count of 4-1, South City looks to get that coveted 1st win this week.

Following the match, come join us at Molloy’s Tavern, 1655 Mission Rd for some food & beverages and the chance to meet the team in person!

SSFAC  “Since Before Soccer Was Cool ” 1954

Sponsored By: Molloy’s Tavern “Since Before You Were Born” 1883

###

Stay up-to-date via SSFPAC Website HERE

and on their Facebook Page HERE

Earlier Updates:

October 4, 2023

SSFAC is proud to announce Molloy’s Tavern as a sponsor for our 2023-24 SWPL Season.

Molloy’s Tavern is located at 1655 Mission Rd on the border of SSF / Colma.

Your go-to place for food & beverages, especially after SSFAC Games on Sundays.

Molloy’s Tavern … “Since before you were born” 1883 !!

September 30, 2023

SSFAC’s Road Trip comes up Empty !

League leader Santa Clara Sporting claimed a victory late Saturday afternoon when they defeated SSFAC by a count of 4-1. Sporting improved their record to 3-0, while South City dropped to 0-1-1.

The team looks to get on the winning track when they host Dublin Celtic FC on Sunday, October 8th, 10:30am @ Colt Field on the campus of El Camino High School. Come out and cheer the team on to victory.

REMEMBER…… It’s Entertaining, It’s Exciting, AND,….. It’s Free

September 24, 2023

SSFAC opened the season this past Sunday @ El Camino High School on a beautiful sunny afternoon. It was a hard fought intense battle that saw SSFAC & JASA RWC Reserves finish with a 2-2 tie.

SSFAC fell behind early, but got on the scoreboard when Adam Snowdon sent a ball to Omeed Miraftab-Salo, who found Ryan Waterston with a perfect pass which he converted to make it a 1-1 game. SSFAC took the lead early in the 2nd half when Snowdon again getting an assist when he sent a cross into the area for Michael Wheaton to head home for a 2-1 lead

JASA countered with a goal of their own shortly after, and even though South City applied great pressure till the end, the match ended at full time all level at 2-2

Next up for the team is a match on the road as they travel to Santa Clara next Saturday Sept. 30th to face long time rival Santa Clara Sporting. Kick off is 4:30pm @ Reed & Grant Sports Complex

Tags: Adam Snowdon Colt Field El Camino High School men’s soccer Michael Wheaton Mike Pizzo Molloy’s Tavern Omeed Miraftab-Salo Santa Clara Sporting

The post South San Francisco A.C. Males’s Soccer Group Oct eighth PLUS Updates on this Historic seventieth Season!! appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

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2023-09-14T18:55:47.750Z

And with that, that’s a wrap on our coverage of Dreamforce 2023. It’s been an action (and content) filled few days, and we still have a number of interviews and biefings to write up, so stay tuned to TechRadar Pro for all the news and updates you need.

2023-09-14T18:55:38.379Z

“We’re inventing a new way of working,” Jones concludes, highlighting the major announcements made today in helping boost productivity across the board in a “productivity revolution”.

2023-09-14T18:51:15.187Z

Huffington reflects how software is meant to help reduce downtime, but that stress still affects huge amounts of workers today.

Thrive looks to help reduce this stress, implementing into Slack to help workers to be at their best as they work.

2023-09-14T18:48:22.842Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Lidiane Jones is back to wrap things up – “clearly, AI can be transformative, and people can have a lot more fun at work.”

She invites up Ariane Huffington, media icon and founder and CEO of Thrive Global to chat about her work with Slack.

2023-09-14T18:45:59.757Z

Developers can also benefit from using the new Slack platform, which offers a modular development framework that’s reusable and recomposable, allowing them to build and deploy custome apps with Slack’s Open API.

“Our platform is open, secure and trusted,” Reddy notes, “AI is thriving there.”

2023-09-14T18:42:24.902Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Anyone can make work easier on Slack, Reddy says, turning any process into an automated workflow with just a few clicks.

“Whatever you’re trying to do, our automation makes it easier for you to do so,” she says, introducing a demo that shows off how straightforward it can be to create an automated process that leaves more time for actual work.

2023-09-14T18:39:50.132Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Next up is automation, with Marable introducing Slack VP of software engineering Rukmini Reddy.

She’s here to talk about taking productivity to the next level via Slack Automation, which allows users to access all their apps, workflows and templates in a single place.

2023-09-14T18:30:16.611Z

Slack can unlock the whole Salesforce 360, he adds, offering better insights, better intelligence, better data, and unlcoking all the investments users have made in Salesforce technology.

We’re then treated to a customer video showing how DIRECTV are using Slack and Salesforce to improve their overall customer experience, and a chat between Marable and DIRECTV’s Craig Reines about the relationship.

2023-09-14T18:25:09.898Z

Having a mobile-friendly approach is also vital, he notes, with Slack offering customizable, clear views of all the data your sellers needs.

Sellers can quickly update notes, move stages along, and give colleagues the chance to collaborate and help close a deal thanks to this AI-powered platform.

What’s more – the mobile and desktop interfaces are identical, meaning no jarring jumps between platforms.

2023-09-14T18:23:39.447Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Moving on to CRM and Slack, Weiss introduces Reggie Marable, VP Sales at Slack to the stage.

“Not only are we changing and transforming how people work, but we’re transforming and revolutionizing how people sell,” he says, noting how tough the sales environment is right now.

Technology can go a long way to helping with this, he notes – introducing Slack Sales Elevate. “This is the future of selling,” he says, as it is giving salespeople more time to actually sell, rather than updating Salesforce or other menial admin tasks.

2023-09-14T18:20:19.634Z

Users can also add AI-powered partner apps to Slack today, and deploy their own custom apps using their preferred AI tool.

Customers can also build no-code workflows with AI helpers, offering the steps needed to get the programming launched as soon as possible, Weiss notes.

2023-09-14T18:18:38.315Z

Slack AI can even deal with questions, providing not just search results, but a real answer that also offers related content and files in Canvas.

2023-09-14T18:16:07.401Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

It’s time for an overview of Slack AI. Weiss outlines the new Channel Recaps feature, which provides summaries of all your channels and chats without manually needing to trek through all your messages.

Weiss presents a demo that shows how AI is able to bring together all unread messages to create a quick summary of what was decided, and what actions and next steps are needed to take a project forward.

2023-09-14T18:13:15.288Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Weiss moves on to AI, saying that the company has “a very unique take” on using AI in Slack.

Trust and confidence is again emphasised as a key function, with user confidence and security a major consideration.

Slack offers enterprise-grade security and compliance, with your private data “100% under your control”, Weiss says.

2023-09-14T18:11:02.632Z

Slack Canvas is highlighted as a particularly important new feature, bringing collaboration and transparency to all teams.

Slack Lists are also revealed, giving users an alternative to endless spreadsheets, a simpler, more engaging way to track work throughout your company, Weiss says.

2023-09-14T18:09:17.455Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Noah Weiss, chief product officer at Slack, is on stage to talk through the new Slack.

“This is the mos exciting set of product innovation we’ve ever been able to show you,” he declares.

2023-09-14T18:08:35.351Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

“We’re excited to innovate…because we think we can help every organization in the industry accelerate and be ahead of the market trends,” she notes.

2023-09-14T18:06:21.686Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Slack is impacting thousands of users across the world, Jones says – and this is only set to improve with the “new Slack”.

2023-09-14T18:05:20.021Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Connecting your people and technology with AI is vital for businesses today, she says – across all levels of your workforce.

“Everybody can transform work, and when organizations empower their users to transform work, that work becomes not only more productive, results are better.”

2023-09-14T18:03:44.117Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

But it’s Jones who kicks things off, welcoming us to the keynote.

“We are undergoing an incredible technological shift in our industry right now. We are seeing an acceleration of AI innovation that is transforming every part of our lives.”

“Slack has been building for this moment from the very beginning,” she adds.

2023-09-14T17:55:46.331Z

Jones is set to be joined by Reggie Marable, Head of Sales — Communications, Media & Tech, Salesforce, Rukmini Reddy, SVP, Software Engineering, Slack, Salesforce, and Noah Weiss, Chief Product Officer, Slack, Salesforce, so it should be a packed session.

2023-09-14T17:52:35.405Z

We’re back for our final keynote session of Dreamforce 2023, and it’s from everyone’s “favorite” collaboration tool Slack.

A Salesforce company since July 2021, Slack has become an integral part of the software giant’s offerings, with millions of users across the globe.

Slack has announced a raft of AI-powered features and tools recently, so we’re expecting to hear more on all of this in a talk hosted by company CEO Lidiane Jones.

2023-09-14T17:02:35.152Z

With that, Kurian leaves the stage, and that’s a wrap for this session! We’ll be back soon with more from Slack to wrap up the final day of Dreamforce 2023.

2023-09-14T17:01:59.841Z

Asked how he sees the future, Kurian notes that Google’s work is to “simplify technology so that people can use it together.”

He adds that the next steps are simplifying activation and giving AI more foundational understanding of industry-specifc languages.

2023-09-14T17:00:23.750Z

Kurian also gives focus to the company’s PALM 2 AI model, which is being used in a wide range of use cases to boost efficiency and productivity in industries as varied as healthcare to wealth management.

“It’s just deepening the work we can do to make it easier for people to use these capabilities together,” he says.

2023-09-14T16:59:18.927Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Google Docs, Slides and Gmail are among the Workspace tools getting a Salesforce AI boost, with trust again at the center.

Kurian notes there are three foundational principles – a customer’s data is theirs alone, improving factuality AI grounding (to make sure AI models provide the best and most accurate results) and a wide range of responsibility controls to allow users to trust in the platform.

2023-09-14T16:56:20.441Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Clara Shih comes back to stage to wrap up this session with what she says is a further exciting announcement.

Salesforce is working closer with Google Workspace, and Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, joins Shih on stage.

“We’ve always shared this view that AI is meant to assist people in getting work done,” he notes.

2023-09-14T16:49:33.769Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

We’re on to the last part of our talk now, and that’s the future of CRM.

Alexa Vignone, EVP of Sales-CMT, takes to the stage to talk about marrying ideas to technology, working with your data to create trusted AI on your terms.

Salesforce looks to offer your business maximum flexibility and customization across the board, she says, all while keeping your data safe and protected.

2023-09-14T16:45:44.965Z

Gucci is looking to keep AI human-centric, as its customers demand a high-end experience, with the human touch an important factor, Tosca notes.

2023-09-14T16:43:44.965Z

Gucci is over 100 years old, Tosca notes, but has a big passion for technology and AI, especially when it comes to customization and personalization in customer experiences.

Having worked with Salesforce for over two years, Gucci has seen a boost in shopping engagement and client services, using Einstein to collaborate with its advisors to improve response and replies.

2023-09-14T16:41:37.893Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Shih returns to the stage, and welcomes another customer – and quite a fashionable one.

Gilberto Tosca, the CTO and CIO of Gucci, and Vasilis Dimitropoulos, head of global client services and product care, join her on stage.

Shih reveals Gucci was “business case number zero” for Salesforce Service GPT, motivated by the company’s need to “Guuci-fy” its conversations with high-spending customers hunting for a bespoke experience.

2023-09-14T16:33:15.303Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Clara Shih is back on stage, welcoming Salesforce’s Dr Claire Cheng from the company’s engineering team to chat a little more about trusted AI.

“Trust is our number one priority,” Cheng asserts, noting that AI needs to be trusted and steerable.

The Einstein Trust Layer, “ensures the safety and security across your entire AI and data journey,” she notes, outlining how the system operates to keep company data protected.

2023-09-14T16:29:23.668Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

After a very thorough demo, MK also taks a look at the future of Data Cloud, which includes further semantic search and more in-depth functionalities.

To talk more about how generative AI can benefit your business, he welcomes to the stage Joe Inzerillo, EVP and chief product & technology officer at, SiriusXM Radio.

Inzerillo says that the company wants listeners, “to feel like we’re talking right to them.”

Data cloud underneath is really the plumbing that allows the AI side of it to sing,” he notes.

2023-09-14T16:19:30.629Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Data Cloud is deeply integrated within Salesforce – particularly in the Einstein 1 platform, he adds, meaning you can still create your usual reports and dashboards, as well as all the usual Salesforce tasks you’d expect.

2023-09-14T16:17:07.123Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

MK, as he is also know, is here to talk about Data Cloud, which he says “can really bring all the data that you have together to harmonize and really power all of your experiences.”

He runs the crowd through exactly how Data Cloud brings together all of your business data across various units and platforms, without the need for over-complexity.

2023-09-14T16:14:06.188Z

Shih notes that the more data you give a model, the less likely hallucinations will be.

“It’s so exciting to see how data cloud is expnacing as a data lake, a data warehouse,” she says.

She welcomes Muralidhar Krishnaprasad, EVP Software Engineering at Salesforce, to the stage to expand on this.

2023-09-14T16:09:27.627Z

Now it’s time for a quick demo showing why it’s so important to have data as a part of AI.

Einstein is able to use generative AI to create a personalized email for a customer lead based on data pulled together from a raft of sources. Einstein Copilot’s prompt builder allows companies to tailor their prompts, giving more flexibility than ever before.

2023-09-14T16:06:48.712Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Shih moves on to discuss Einstein 1, the new platform announced this week, which she describes as, “the future of CRM…the future of enterprise AI.”

“We’re really excited to show you all what it can do,” she declares.

2023-09-14T16:05:17.781Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

“Trust is the number one value of Salesforce,” she says, noting that AI raises a host of new questions and challenges.

2023-09-14T16:03:28.571Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Clara Shih takes to the stage, and welcomes us all in today.

“It’s an amazing time to be alive,” she says, “There’s no question, we are in an AI and data revolution…which means we’re in a customer revolution, and a business evolution.”

2023-09-14T15:59:01.775Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

First up today is a keynote from a host of AI heayweights, including Clara Shih, CEO of Salesforce AI, and no less than Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud.

They’ll be joined by a host of Salesforce experts and customers, so we’re intrigued to hear more shortly…

2023-09-14T14:44:37.220Z

Good morning from day three of Dreamforce!

There will be a few sore heads this morning no doubt after last night’s Dreamfest conference party, which saw rock gods the Foo Fighters play to an adoring crowd at San Francisco’s Chase Center.

We’re up and raring to go for the final day, with several action-packed keynotes on the way, so stay tuned for all the latest updates…

2023-09-13T21:37:33.646Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Our last question (Benioff is off to interview California Governor Gavin Newsom and film star Matthew McConaughey this afternoon) is about the recent Salesforce shake-ups and any possible succession plans.

Benioff shrugs the suggestion he is leaving any time soon with a laugh, and that’s that!

2023-09-13T21:33:40.645Z

A question about Salesforce building its own LLMs is next up, and Benioff confirms most of these are indeed made from scratch.

“Because we have been so blessed to have so many amazing researchers, we were able to build so many awesome models,” he notes.

2023-09-13T21:30:08.658Z

Next question is around Salesforce working with MSPs, and the opportunity this provides.

“I think we’re going to see a lot of entreprenuers,” he says, “now, everyone realizes a lot of these companies can scale and move quickly.”

“I know a lof of software in our industry needs to be rewritten…we’re rewriting a lot of our software right now.”

2023-09-13T21:28:01.136Z

Next is a question about AI in developing markets and countries, and how the technology could be used for good.

“I think no-one is ready for AI,” Benioff replies, harking back to the early days of ChatGPT and Bard, but that there is a huge opportunity to provide education for everyone.

2023-09-13T21:25:13.357Z

Benioff is then asked a local question about San Francisco, and if the city is doing enough to be welcoming to technology companies.

There’s been a lot of speculation that Dreamforce won’t be returning to San Francisco next year, but Benioff does say, “we’re moving in the right direction” despite issues around policing and homelessness.

There’s no final answer though on whether we’ll be back here next year though, but he does note that San Francisco is “the biggest AI city in the world.”

2023-09-13T21:22:34.220Z

First off, he’s asked about his conversation with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman yesterday, and Altman’s quote about hallucinations being “not a bug, but a feature”.

“We’re just at the beginning,” Benioff notes, “these technologies are like toddlers right now, but they’re going to grow up fast…it’s going to be a huge leap, and we’re going to witness history being made.”

2023-09-13T21:20:13.198Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Marc Benioff welcomes us all, and hopes we’re having a good time, and is here to take some questions.

2023-09-13T21:17:49.689Z

A bit of a disruption here as our special guest has arrived…

2023-09-13T21:15:18.400Z

The nex question is around helping people work effectively with AI, and how Salesforce is pushing education around the AI benefits.

Shih notes that many consumers may have felt burnt around AI over the last few years, but that Salesforce s continuing to push its trust-first model as a priority.

“Consumer education is very important in all of this – similar to the Internet era, ChatGPT was their first introduction to generative AI,” she states, “our job is to educate consumers and employees around what’s important in the enterprise space.”

2023-09-13T21:11:44.424Z

A question about the EU AI Act is next, with Loeb asked how Salesforce is set to deal with the legislation.

Although it is still to be finalized, and generative AI has thrown a small spanner in the works, he notes that there is still a lot of progress to be made and ongoing discussions around policy development.

“It’s not a static process that will continue to evolve…and that’s a good thing,” he says.

Shih emphasizes the Salesforce view that it’s user’s data is not their product, and that users have complete control and visibility over what data gets used to train and run models.

2023-09-13T21:05:10.863Z

Next is a question on Salesforce Ventures, and what exactly the body is looking for when it invests.

Somorjai asserts it is a global effort, with investments across 27 countries already, particularly around AI start-ups.

2023-09-13T21:03:29.183Z

On to Q&A now, with the panel asked how they see the future of reconciling different nations and bodies across the world with AI.

Loeb replies that the sheer pace of technological development often makes this difficult, but there is intent to keep the controls ongoing.

Baxter adds that creating standards would be “an excellent next step” towards this control, and that the public-private collaboration will be vital.

2023-09-13T20:59:40.275Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Next up, Eric Loeb, EVP, Government Affairs, is asked about the governance of AI, particularly at a national and federal level.

“There’s a lot of interest…and there rightly should be,” he notes, “this is a transformational technology…but there has to be a sense of trust and responsibility.”

“But you need to have public policy, and regulation…but it’s not one size fits all, you need to think about different use cases.”

2023-09-13T20:56:34.833Z

John Somorjai, Chief Corporate Development & Investments Officer at Salesforce, is asked about the company’s AI development fund, and the motivations behind it.

He notes how AI technology saw a huge spur in interest and development, so the need to create a reliable and interesting ecosystem of partners was critical.

An initial $250 million investment was quickly spent, with a further doubling following soon.

2023-09-13T20:55:08.248Z

Kathy Baxter from Salesfoce Principal Architecture, Ethical AI Practice is next up, talking more about the company’s responsibilities and practices when it comes to artificial intelligence.

“It goes back to our company DNA, and respecting our customer’s data,” she notes, “you can feel confident in (our models) and that it’s going to be accurate.”

“It’s incredibly important in a business context, that if you’re using AI…it’s got to be accurate.”

2023-09-13T20:53:30.496Z

Shih is then asked about the long-term future of AI at Salesforce, and what the priorities are.

Trust is the main focus, she replies, adding that the approach to using generative AI in a safe and trusted manner is paramount.

The business impact is also important though, with AI needing to show its own importance and functionality, with organizational readiness another vital factor.

“You need both a top-down strategy, as well as a bottom-up one,” she says.

2023-09-13T20:51:32.406Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Clara Shih is first up – asked which of the many Salesforce announcements from yesterday she’s most excited about, she mentions Einstein GPT first up, but that customers wanted extra customization options.

This inspired her team to develop Einstein Copilot Studio, particularly the Skills Builder and Prompt Builder tools.

“It really was a platform approach that is so exciting, and I think, the future of AI,” she says.

2023-09-13T20:31:43.312Z

Our panel is set to be made up of Clara Shih, EVP & GM, Salesforce AI, Kathy Baxter, Principal Architecture, Ethical AI Practice, John Somorjai, Chief Corporate Development & Investments Officer, and Eric Loeb, EVP, Government Affairs (alongside a moderator)…but there are six chairs on stage – so who else could be joining us?

2023-09-13T20:29:53.104Z

And we’re back – after a refuelling lunch and coffee stop, it’s time for our next panel session.

Entitled “The Future of AI at Salesforce” this promises to be more of an in-depth look at how the company is planning to utilize artificial intelligence within itself.

We’ve also been told a certain special guest with the initials M.B. might be taking part, so we’ve got a good spot to make sure we hear all his wisdom.

2023-09-13T16:55:05.137Z

That’s a wrap on this panel session – we’ll be back soon with more updates and news soon!

2023-09-13T16:54:46.820Z

Scardino adds that purpose doesn’t change – and helping people be more productive is the main aspect. Finally, Jones adds that anything that helps solve over-working and stress, allowing people to spend more time with those they love, and focus on well-being is the most important.

“We can be happier at work, we can care about our connections, and we’ll hopefully have more time for the things that matter the most,” she hopes.

2023-09-13T16:52:49.277Z

Final question – and it’s about happiness!

The panel is asked how AI can improve the quality of life for not just workers, but everyone.

Perez says that even though AI has been around for a while, there’s nothing more difficult and challenging for developers that when their code isn’t working, or the systems go down. AI support means software quality can keep improving, leading to better quality of life for developers, managers and other IT workers.

“What makes technologists happy is building technology that works!” he notes.

2023-09-13T16:49:57.057Z

Asked if we’re now moving past the AI fear and scaremongering period, Jones says that she certainly believes so.

“It’s amazing how much it’s shifted over just the past nine months,” she says, “leaders are trying to help their employees understand their own journeys…I have seen a meaningful shift towards, how can I be a part of it, across the board.”

2023-09-13T16:46:04.586Z

Jones also highlights Salesforce (and Slack’s) focus on equality, and how AI transformation means knowledge can be more accessible that ever.

“If we do it well, we can start laying the groundwork for more global equality,” she notes.

2023-09-13T16:41:30.437Z

Jones is asked how deeply the Slack and Salesforce relationship can develop in the future.

“We’re just starting on our journey of expanding on what Slack is,” she notes, highlighing the opportunities created by Slack Elevate in particular.

“Every company is trying to figure out what (AI) means for them,” she adds, “so Slack becomes really critical for companies during a period of transformation.”

Slack has become a critical part of any company looking to develop and evolve, she notes.

2023-09-13T16:38:11.786Z

Asked about the impact of AI on junior level roles in particular, Scardino says she understands the concern.

Salesforce has continued investment into its internships and entry-level roles to focus more on the flexibility and agility to learn new skills.

“A company has to look for skills beyond the expertise,” she says.

Jones adds that Slack looks to help employees build the right skills, saying that agility is also a key consideration for her company.

2023-09-13T16:33:43.677Z

Asked about strategies to mitigate the “AI trust gap” mentioned by Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff yesterday, Perez notes that Einstein Trust Layer should go a long way to enabling this.

“I feel really good about boosting Salesforce AI within Salesforce (because of this,” he says.

2023-09-13T16:30:40.081Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

“We’re really excited to make productivity fun again,” Jones concludes, as we move to Q&A.

2023-09-13T16:28:34.520Z

Scardino says she thinks about AI in a critical thinking capacity, and Salesforce is focused on using the technology for productivity gains.

“The right kind of productivity…(means) the employee experience improves, you feel aligned with the company,” she notes.

Jones follows up by saying Slack believes that, “if an employee feels productive, that’s really good.”

“We are on a mission to help empower users…to be in charge of reshaping their own productivity,” she adds, “that empowerment really helps unlock what productivity really means.”

“It unlocks a whole new way to work.”

2023-09-13T16:25:41.361Z

Turning towards productivity, the panel is asked how they are talking about AI when it comes to customers.

Perez says he believes, “every company has the opportunities for productivity,” adding that, ” as you improve productivity, quality goes with it…it’s a virtuous cycle.”

CIOs are being challenged by their bosses to find ways to improve productivity and efficiency, with tecnology central to this, he notes, and now AI is here.

“We still haven’t seen the full story written…we’re seeing AI as another enabler for productivity improvements,” he says.

2023-09-13T16:23:12.959Z

Jones notes that Salesforce has always gone deep on responsible and ethical technology and AI use – “it’s been fundamental for us in how we build our software, and how we behave, that we have a really high bar for ethics,” she notes.

2023-09-13T16:20:35.305Z

Perez is asked how he is adopting responsible AI, and what status it takes within the company.

“I think of AI as another application – it needs to meet standards, it needs to be secure…and it needs to meet the demands of customers, and us, across the organization.”

He notes that Salesforce has created an AI council tasked with spreading AI across the business, but also boosting “enterprise AI” – allowing other parts of the business to speak up on how they would like to use AI.

2023-09-13T16:18:01.644Z

Perez adds that as a CIO, the use of AI to improve overall software quality, from coders upwards, will transform “significantly”.

“We won’t replace developers, but will look to build better technology,” he states.

2023-09-13T16:16:31.061Z

Scardino adds that AI is playing a big role in Salesforce’s hiring policies, saving lots of time previously spent sifting on resumes, and spending more time getting to know candidates and the demands of the role.

“You also have to think about what doesn’t change,” she notes, “the human relationship will always be important.”

2023-09-13T16:14:24.549Z

A generative AI question for Slack CEO Jones, who is asked how she sees the future of work changing.

“I’m really optimistic,” she says, “Slack started with a mission to make people’s lives easier…and more productive.”

“What AI can provide for all of us…is taking care of bureaucracy work to make us the best workers.”

“When done well, AI can help us transform ourselves, and better the whole world…our belief is that we can do it with trust in mind, and it can be quite transformative.”

“We want to be the platform that unlocks this responsible transformation.”

2023-09-13T16:12:12.724Z

Asked about how best to deal with the incoming AI skills gap, Nathalie Scardino, interim Chief People Officer, Salesforce, highlights the work the company is doing to boost AI skills adoption, as hiring the best workers is the key to assuring a strong future.

Salesforce also offers a wide variety of AI learning kits and skills on its Trailhead online learning platform, and Scardino also highlights how “continual learning” at the company is putting AI first when it comes to innovation.

2023-09-13T16:10:22.027Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

2023-09-13T16:08:54.738Z

Lidiane Jones, Slack CEO, is asked how she works with Salesforce (and Perez) to unlock the power of AI.

“Being customer zero means we waste no opportunity to ask for new features,” she jokes, “it’s not sequential that work is done, it’s collaborative.”

“We look at, how are we supporting our teams to effectively transform how they are working,” she adds, naming Slack Elevate as a key example of this idea.

“Our mission is to transform how productivity is done with a platform that is connecting people and systems,” Jones notes.

2023-09-13T16:06:01.195Z

Asked what he prioritizes as CIO when it comes to AI, Juan Perez notes that the company always utilizes any new technology first to make sure there are no issues.

“When it comes to AI, we have been customer zero,” he notes, with Einstein Sales and Einstein Service among the most recent launches.

2023-09-13T16:03:41.622Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

2023-09-13T15:41:40.150Z

First up for us this morning is a press panel about “AI in the workplace” – a growing consideration (and concern) for many businesses.

It’s a bit of an all-star line-up too, with Juan Perez, Salesforce CIO, Nathalie Scardino, interim Chief People Officer, Salesforce, and Lidiane Jones, Slack CEO all set to give their thoughts.

2023-09-13T14:36:40.615Z

Good morning from day two of Dreamforce! After yesterday’s product and AI-filled keynote, things are a bit different today, as the focus switches more towards specific panel and focus events. 

However there are also keynotes on the future of work, marketing and lots more on AI, so stay tuned for all the latest updates.

2023-09-12T18:41:52.514Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Benioff is back to wrap things up, covering all the main announcements  from this morning, and thanking us all for coming.

And that’s a wrap for the opening keynote! We’re off to digest everything we’ve heard, but will be back shortly with the other main keynotes and sessions from the day – thanks for joining us, and see you soon for more Dreamforce 2023 fun.

2023-09-12T18:37:44.306Z

Canvas is also getting an upgrade, with the content generator service now able to pull in all related sales information to help salespeople, marketers and more – making sure they are equipped with everything they need to succeed.

“This is the future of productivity,” she says.

2023-09-12T18:35:14.956Z

Among the new features are Slack Lists, a new way to track your work with collaboration at the core.

Launching as a pilot later this year, it can use generative AI to bring together workflows from all your chats, meaning you hopefully shouldn’t miss any key deadlines.

Slack Sales Elevate also promises to use AI to help users save time and boost efficiency – bringing the power of Sales Cloud and Slack together for maximum productivity.

2023-09-12T18:33:37.039Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Next up is productivity – and to talk through that, it’s Slack CEO Lidian Jones.

She’s here to show off some new Salesforce integrations that will show off “a brand new user experience”.

The “new Slack” has a number of changes and tweaks, including a number of accessibility upgrades – all with AI at the core.

2023-09-12T18:29:51.321Z

“This is an entirely new way to build applications…you are all Einsteins now,” Stokes concludes.

2023-09-12T18:25:24.819Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

AI is changing everything, right down to how we build apps, Stokes notes – as an AI application offers a new way of thinking and development.

Creating these new apps requires a new set of tools – and for these new AI apps, this is Einstein 1 Copilot Studio.

This helps extend and customize exactly what you need Einstein to do within your business, connecting models and data from a wide range of different sources.

Stokes shows off a demo where additional customized requests can be created and utilized quickly and simply, giving a richer customer experience all round.

2023-09-12T18:16:11.184Z

Benioff now turns to the future of AI – and how you can make it successful inside your company.

Patrick Stokes, from Salesforce product and industries marketing, is here to tell us more.

2023-09-12T18:13:27.346Z

Benioff just confirmed his swanky sneakers are made by Gucci – another Salesforce customer!

2023-09-12T18:12:48.575Z

Benioff is back, chatting to Laura Alvarez, the CEO of Williams-Sonoma about how the company utilized Salesforce technology.

He also asks her about her dreams for AI – with Alvarez replying that gaining customer trust by adding value is vital.

“The last thing you want to do is hurt the customer experience,” she notes. “When it comes to customers, there has to be nothign artificial about the experience…it has to be completely authentic.”

2023-09-12T18:06:09.424Z

It’s now time for some customer stories, with commerce giant Williams-Sonoma up first. They’re using Salesforce across the board, creating smarter and more engaging email marketing campaigns via CRM and Einstein Copilot.

2023-09-12T17:56:42.194Z

Einstein 1 is also coming to Tableau – giving more data to more companies to help them make smarter and better decisions, Schmaier notes.

It’s also coming to Canvas, Slack, MuleSoft and many more – this really could be a game-changer for Salesforce users everywhere.

2023-09-12T17:55:09.826Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

David Schmaier, president and chief product officer, is next up, and introduces the new Einstein 1 Copilot.

“This is a big, big deal – the data powers the AI, and the AI powers your customer experience,” he notes.

The new tool can provide a huge range of services – from providing sales people with automatically-generated leads documents, or service agents with the latest customer and product information, or marketers with easily-tweakable campaigns – the possibilities seem endless.

2023-09-12T17:50:32.344Z

Data Cloud is now free to get started, Harris notes, with all Enterprise, Unlimited and Unlimited Plus subscribers.

2023-09-12T17:47:26.864Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Harris now digs a little more into Data Cloud – noting that Salesforce is partnering with nearly all top data lake providers to get hold of your data, then harmonizing it and powering it into Data Cloud in real-time.

Basically, Salesforce wants to ensure making sense of your data is easier than ever – and some demos show just how simple bringing together these different sources can be – at least in theory.

2023-09-12T17:43:58.709Z

“In a way, this AI revolution is actually a data revolution,” Harris notes, “because the AI revolution wouldn’t exist without the power of all that data.”

You need to bring together these “islands of disconnected data” – and Einstein 1 Data Cloud can do this, connecting all your data inside Salesforce, integrating natively with Salesforce metadata.

2023-09-12T17:41:09.625Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

With that, Benioff hands over the mic to Parker Harris, Salesforce co-founder and CTO.

He starts off by talking about how the company is going to keep your data safe – primarily through the new Einstein Trust Layer.

Primarily, this looks to keep information protected from unscrupulous LLMs, as well as keeping it safe from hallucinations or any other toxicity.

2023-09-12T17:38:47.992Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

The AI revolution is a trust revolution, Benioff notes – “we have a very different narratvie when it comes to AI – we are not afraid to say things that other companies are afraid to say.

“Your data is not our product – that’s not what we do here,” he asserts, unlike a lot of other companies.

“Transparency builds trust…We all know what can happen is AI goes wrong – let’s keep it going in the right direction.”

2023-09-12T17:35:40.101Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Einstein 1 is open to all the Salesforce family, as Benioff notes it is Trailblazers who will help lead the AI revolution.

This will include major overhauls when it comes to skills training, and Salesforce is also investing $500 million Ventures fund for Einstein 1 innovators.

2023-09-12T17:27:59.770Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

When it comes to the AI opportunity – “there’s no question that this AI opportunity is going to change everything…or anything,” Benioff notes.

But Benioff recognizes there is an AI trust gap – noting that LLMs can turn toxic very quickly. “We recognise this is a phenomenal opportuniy for the future, some place we all want to work to get to.”

The solution – Einstein 1. “We want to built the trusted AI platform for customer companies,” he notes. Integrated, intelligent, auotmated, Einstein 1 works with low code and no code, built to be open.

“This is our life’s work – this is what we’ve been doing for 25 years,” Benioff notes.

2023-09-12T17:27:30.900Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Here we go – it’s time to talk AI.

“We want to help our customers connect with their customers in a whole new way…but we recognise tehcnology is moving faster than ever…this data explosion, this burst of artificial intelligence – it’s like nothing we’ve ever seen before,” Benioff notes.

“This AI revolution is going to change who we are…but it will bring us back to who we are.”

Einstein AI is already incredibly popular, he notes, as Salesforce is already the number one AI platform used around the world.

“Now we have to think about – what are we doing with this technology?”

2023-09-12T17:23:55.862Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Benioff has some very funky cloud-themed sneakers (Converse?) on – he just marched right past us, acting out a story from his school days…

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

2023-09-12T17:13:20.379Z

Benioff notes that, “we’re inspired to see business is the greatest platform for change”- with the company still giving 1% of its equity, and contributing 8.3 million hours volunteering, as well as working with around 54,000 non-profits.

The company is also donating $20 million more to public schools in San Francisco and Oakland.

2023-09-12T17:10:43.164Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

Benioff says this is the most sustainable Dreamforce yet, with 74% of structures recycled or re-used.

He adds that Salesforce is the 3rd largest software company in the world – except in Japan, where it is #2.

2023-09-12T16:56:10.838Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

“We’re going to have nothing but fun times over the next few days,” Benioff says, thanking everyone with the traditional Mahalo.

“We’ve been on these stages now for 25 years…there’s a lot of good days, and a lot of bad days…but we are deeply grateful for you,” he tells his employees.

2023-09-12T16:56:03.777Z

After a brief introduction – and some music from none other than Dave Matthews, it’s time for the main event.

Following an intro video narrated by future Dreamfroce keynoter Matthew McConaghey, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff takes to the stage to rapturous applause from an adoring crowd.

2023-09-12T16:47:47.807Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

As is tradition, we have the usual Hawaiian welcome – a very spiritual start to what will be a very tech-heavy morning…

2023-09-12T16:35:35.438Z

(Image credit: Future / Mike Moore)

We’re seated and ready for the keynote, and it’s a typically Salesforce-y start to the date – ukelele music, Trailblazers in bright gold blazers, and Disney-esque giant mascots welcoming people in (Astro is always our favorite).

Half an hour to go…

2023-09-12T16:33:55.577Z

Speaking of AI, we’ve already had a look at some of the big news to come out of Dreamforce this morning – the company has released Einstein 1, a supercharged AI platform that brings together data from all your various platforms to create intelligent and useful suggestions.

You can read our full article above, but the launch is a key indicator that AI is going to be a major theme at Dreamforce this year.

2023-09-12T16:33:35.643Z

Today’s opening keynote is due to kick off at 10am PT / 1pm ET / 6pm BST, and you can follow it live on the Dreamforce website here.

As usual, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff will lead proceeding, but we’re expecting a host of special guests, and for AI to play a central role.

2023-09-12T16:32:27.742Z

Good morning and welcome to our live blog covering Dreamforce 2023!

Salesforce’s annual conference is always a highlight of the B2B technology calendar, and we’re here in San Francisco to bring you all the news and updates.

So what are we expecting this year? Short answer…AI, and lots of it. Salesforce has always been at the forefront of AI innovation, so we’re expecting a whole heap of AI to help its customers around the world.

The post Dreamforce 2023 reside – All of the information and updates from day three appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

Sunday’s MLB action started with a bang when Pete Alonso made a surprise return to the Mets lineup about two weeks early after suffering a wrist injury. That was the injury headliner of the day, but there’s still a lot more to come after 15 games.

MLB Injury Report: Monday, June 19

Pete Alonso (wrist), New York Mets — Well, that was quick. When Alonso was brought to the IL last week with a bruised bone and a sprained wrist, he was expected to be out for at least three weeks. But just 11 days later, the first baseman was back in the Mets’ lineup as of Sunday afternoon. He went 0-4 with three strikeouts, so there’s clearly some rust, but Alonso seems good enough to swing the racquet normally:

Julio Urias (thigh)/Daniel Hudson (knee), Los Angeles Dodgers – Finally, some good news for the Dodgers’ pitching team, who have been struggling lately, particularly during this weekend’s win over the San Francisco Giants. Urias, who has been out since last month with a thigh strain, and Hudson, who has not played at all this year while in rehab after knee surgery, are expected to rejoin the team before the end of the month:

Evan Phillips probably holds the most leverage spots, but given how much manager Dave Roberts loves to shuffle and combine based on matchups, Hudson should still have a lot of work to do in the ninth inning.

Sean Murphy (hamstring), Atlanta Braves – As expected, Murphy was absent from Sunday’s squad after leaving Saturday’s game with a hamstring injury, but there was good news nonetheless: an MRI showed only an irritation and no actual strain. The backstop may need a few more days off, but the team is hoping, at least for now, that it won’t need to be deployed to the IL.

Casey Schmitt (forearm)/Alex Cobb (oblique), San Francisco Giants – It was a bad day for batters, who were plunked when Schmitt took a pitch off his arm at Dodger Stadium. The rookie was forced to leave the game but it appears that was just a precaution – his x-rays were negative and he should be back in the line-up soon.

Cobb, meanwhile, was placed on the IL with an oblique strain. While we’ve watched this type of injury ambush pitchers for several weeks, the Giants don’t seem overly concerned. Manager Gabe Kapler told reporters the righty felt some tightness throwing a bullpen over the weekend, which the team wanted to do to ensure he had more time to get things right. It’s possible that Cobb just missed a start or two.

Ian Hamilton (groin)/Nestor Cortes (rotator cuff), New York Yankees – Not much was going well for the Yankees this weekend in Boston, but at least there was some movement on the injury front. Hamilton, who had emerged as a key midfielder, scored twice in a clean inning in his first rehab appearance at Double-A Somerset. The right-winger later told reporters he expects to need at least two more sorties but could be ready by next weekend.

As for Cortes, he’s throwing for the first time since he was sidelined with a rotator cuff tear earlier this month:

There’s still a long way to go for the left-hander — he probably won’t return to the New York rotation before the All-Star break — but it’s a start.

Tanner Houck (face), Boston Red Sox – The Red Sox issued an update on Houck a day after the right-hander was hit in the face by a line drive.

Houck did suffer some sort of facial fracture — and not just the contusion he was originally diagnosed with — and was placed on the injured list, but all things considered, the outcome could have been a lot worse. Thankfully, it looks like the right will be fine, although there’s no timeline for his return to the mound just yet. The team hasn’t revealed who might fill Houck’s place in the rotation; Nick Pivetta and Corey Kluber would be obvious candidates.

jonathan india, Cincinnati Reds – India equalized early in the eighth inning with a home run on backfield, but were forced out of the game two innings later after being knocked out by a double play. Good news for Cincy: The Reds clinched the win in their 10th game for the eighth consecutive year and their second baseman appears to be doing well.

Lars Nootbaar (back), St Louis Cardinals — We’d say Nootbaar seems ready to return to St. Louis:

Reports surfaced early Sunday afternoon that the outfielder — who started a rehab stint at Triple-A Memphis this week — could leave the IL as early as Monday, and he responded by hitting a home run a few hours later. The team won’t make a decision until they see how his sore back is reacting, but it certainly sounds like he’ll be back in the next few days.

Alejandro Kirk (Hand), Toronto Blue Jays — Kirk was another pitch hit victim on Sunday. Toronto’s loss to the Texas Rangers left hand lacerated and bruised. X-rays were thankfully negative, but it remains to be seen how long it will be before the backing can swing a racquet comfortably again. Danny Jansen has had the most starts behind the plate lately anyway.

Miguel Amaya (Wrist), Chicago Cubs – We told you that there were a lot of batters plunked on Sunday. Amayas was one of the scariest, a 96mph fastball right off his wrist that left him prone in pain for quite a while, but manager David Ross said his catcher seemed to avoid anything too serious:

The rookie has been swinging a hot racquet since his debut last month, earning more and more playing time off the record.

Jeimer Candelario (thumb), Washington Nationals — Candelario was left out of the Nats’ lineup late on Sunday, and manager Davey Martinez told reporters after the game that his third baseman suffered a bruised thumb bone during Saturday’s game. He’s under consideration on a day-to-day basis for now, but the team will likely wait until Monday or Tuesday to see how they react before making a decision on a return.

Michael A Taylor (Head), Minnesota Twins — If Amaya didn’t have the scariest HBP of the day, then Taylor certainly did. The midfielder was hit in the back of the head by a mistaken curveball by Tigers substitute Alex Lange in the eighth inning, catching him just under his batting helmet as he tried to duck out of the way. Taylor left the game with a so-called head bruise and eventually went to the coaching bench under his own steam. Manager Rocco Baldelli said initial tests showed no concussion-like symptoms. He’s already been ruled out of Monday’s game but it’s too early to tell if he’ll need a call-up for IL.

Matt Vierling (rear), Detroit Tigers — Vierling was also late and missed Sunday’s game with back spasms just days after returning from an IL stay with back pain. That doesn’t bode well, of course, although the team hasn’t offered an update yet. The outfielder has .529 hits so far this month – and even got endorsed by the Oakland Athletics Twitter account at the All-Star Game – so it would be a huge loss to be forced to miss any more time.

The post MLB harm report: Updates for Pete Alonso, Freddie Freeman, Nestor Cortes, extra on Monday, June 19 appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

WALMART is shutting 21 stores nationwide this year, including four in Chicago, due to poor financial results at each site.

The most recent store closings continue a pattern in which Walmart shuts down a number of locations in various states each year, claiming that the locations are “underperforming” but not giving any further details.

Most recently, the chain has announced closures in 12 states, including Arkansas, Washington DC, Georgia, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Washington State, and Wisconsin.

A spokeswoman cited store performance as one of the reasons for the closure.

The business said that four of its eight Chicago locations will be shutting down in April and claimed that these locations “lose tens of millions of dollars a year.”

The chain’s store closures come after Walmart CEO Doug McMillion issued a warning to shoppers.

“Theft is an issue. It’s higher than what it has historically been,” McMillon told CNBC in December. If this issue isn’t addressed, “prices will be higher, and/or stores will close,” McMillon warned.

Follow our store closures blog for news and updates…

More on CVS closures

The Mobile, Alabama, store joins a growing list of CVS locations permanently shuttering.

The chain closed three locations in March and two more in April.

“It’s stressful for a lot of patients. The thought of switching pharmacies can be very daunting, especially when you have patients that have a lot of medication,” Sarah Walton, the company’s director of pharmacy operations, told WNYT as the company announced a closure in New York earlier this year.

“But we’ve done our best with estimating the number of patients that we think we can be getting with this closing.”

The company revealed plans in January to shutter 300 stores per year – the goal was to close 900 locations by 2026.

There are more than 9,600 CVS locations nationwide.

Pharmacy set to shut down

Customers in Mobile, Alabama, are preparing to lose a CVS location.

In a statement to 15 News, the local NBC affiliate, the company said it is working to help customers find new locations to fill their prescriptions.

“All prescriptions will be transferred to the nearby CVS Pharmacy at 4645 Airport Boulevard to ensure that patients continue to have uninterrupted access to the pharmacy care, programs and services they currently receive from CVS,” the company said.

“Patients can always choose to fill their prescriptions at any CVS Pharmacy, or the pharmacy of their choice, if another is more convenient.”

CVS didn’t specify why the store was closing but pointed to multiple factors leading to closures.

Retailer closes after a six-month run

Furniture retailer Coco Republic opened its doors in San Francisco’s Union Square with high hopes in the fall of 2022.

But now the chain is saying goodbye to its new shoppers, announcing the store will be completely shut down by the end of July — or whenever its inventory is completely sold out.

The closure is just one of many as downtown San Francisco continues to fare poorly in its ability to retain retailers over the past several months.

As crime picked up in the area, other stores such as Nordstrom, Whole Foods, and Office Depot also announced their departure from the area, partly attributed to high theft and crime as well as low foot traffic.

“It was a difficult decision and one that was not taken lightly,” a company spokesperson told SFGate.

7/11 rival closes its doors

Health Beat Natural Foods, which rivals convenience store chan 7-Eleven, is shutting down in Johnson City, New York.

This is because the owner of the store, Michele Moelder, is retiring.

She said in a Facebook post: “Thank you so much for 40 years of support! I’m onto the next chapter of life!”

“My goal when I opened was to educate and help people enjoy a healthier life by providing healthier food – vitamins and guidance! Continue on – please keep in touch!”

‘Retail apocalypse’

A variety of brick-and-mortar stores have struggled in recent years due to the rise of online sales.

This has been a leading cause of store closures in general.

Some have dubbed this trend as the retail apocalypse.

In particular, it has affected many stores that have a big presence in the malls including Macy’s, which has announced plans to close more than 100 locations by the end of this year.

And Foot Locker announced it would be shutting down 400 “underperforming” locations, all of which are mall-based stores

Dollar General rival closes

Dollar Tree at 1099 Route 46 in the Troy-Hills shopping center in New Jersey has closed.

A picture of a sign taken by local news outlet Parsippany Focus read: “This location has been permanently closed. Thank you to our customers.”

Another photo on the store that suddenly closed shows that the sign and facade have been removed.

The exact reason for and when exactly it closed is unclear.

But Dollar Tree is encouraging customers to shop at other local stores including one at 1440 US-46 in Parsippany and another at 461 US-46 in Fairfield.

Other retailers leaving San Francisco

Williams-Sonoma joins a long list of companies vacating their San Francisco dwellings.

Coco Republic, Nordstrom, and Whole Foods Market all announced their departure from the California city.

None of the companies have pointed directly to a rise in theft as the main cause of their departure.

Workers and police data suggests that theft has been a big reason for the exits.

“We invested extraordinary time and capital in our initial US flagship store in Union Square,” Coco Republic’s creative director and founder, Anthony Spon-Smith, said in a statement.

“But, ultimately, the safety and well-being of our customers and employees is our highest priority.”

Iconic kitchenware store shuts down

The popular kitchenware store Williams-Sonoma has been the only location in downtown San Francisco.

The company, well known for its gourmet-quality cookware, is closing after 30 years in the bay area city.

The four-floor, nearly 20,000-square-foot location, has been a Williams-Sonoma since 1993.

The store’s top floor featured a full-working kitchen.

Williams-Sonoma contracted professional chefs to teach cooking classes in the custom kitchen.

According to The San Francisco Standard, employees at the kitchenware brand said the location is expected to turn into a Chanel store.

Hooters rival closes doors for good

The Buffalo Wild Wings bar in northeast Columbia abruptly closed its doors just one week after announcing several other closures.

Last week a spokesperson for the chicken wing chain told CTV News Toronto that the “difficult decision” was made to close “a few” of its locations in Ontario.

The spokesperson did not specify the reasoning behind the closures, but said it “routinely evaluates locations to serve out guests best.”

Those that were axed included bars in Oakville, London, Ajax, Stoney Creek, and Vaughan.

Retailers who filed for bankruptcy: JCPenney

The popular department store declared bankruptcy in May 2020 and announced it would close over 800 stores.

Unfortunately, the company had acquired $4.5billion in net losses since 2010.

Only 670 JCPenney locations exist today, and more stores are slated to close this spring, including those in Oswego, New York, and Elkhart, Indiana.

Simon Property Group and Brookfield Property Group have agreed to acquire the chain for $1.75billion.

Retailers who filed for bankruptcy: Party City

Party supply store Party City may have flourished pre-pandemic, but the coronavirus outbreak put a hit on both in-person events and the store’s financial performance.

Since filing for bankruptcy, the store has placed 12 locations up for auction so far.

Under a $150 bankruptcy loan, the chain said it will continue operating while restructuring its debt load.

In September 2022, Party City held $1.7billion in debt but was working to achieve a smaller and more successful fleet of stores.

Burger King closures: Michigan

EYM King of Michigan stated in a WARN notice it would also be closing 26 Burger King restaurants in Michigan in April.

The locations include:

• Dearborn Heights: 20401 W. Warren (16)
• Detroit: 2155 Gratiot Ave. (8)
• Detroit: 9871 Livernois (13)
• Detroit: 8201 Woodward Ave. (14)
• Detroit: 18021 Kelly Rd. (20)
• Detroit: 20200 Grand River Ave. (22)
• Detroit: 13600 W. McNichols Rd. (22)
• Detroit: 15500 W. Seven Mile (21)
• Detroit: 20240 Plymouth Rd. (25)
• Detroit: 12661 Mack Ave. (11)
• Detroit: 9239 Gratiot Ave. (9)
• Detroit: 17440 E. Warren (30)
• Detroit: 16245 Livernois Ave. (14)
• Ecorse: 3863 W. Jefferson Ave. (11)
• Ferndale: 10336 W. 8 Mile Rd. (26)
• Flint: 3625 South Dort Hwy. (25)
• Flint: 3801 Clio Rd. (18)
• Highland Park: 13324 Woodward Ave. (13)
• Livonia: 28203 Plymouth Rd. (10)
• Livonia: 34835 Plymouth Ave. (19)
• Royal Oak: 31456 Woodward Ave. (17)
• Southfield: 23660 Telegraph Rd. (19)
• Southfield: 30711 Southfield Rd. (7)
• Walled Lake: 1113 E. West Maple Rd. (8)
• Warren: 2411 E. 8 Mile Rd. (13)
• Whitmore Lake: 9774 E. M-36 (13)

Burger King closures: Utah

Utah is closing nine stores as Burger King plans to close 400 locations this year, they include:

• 171 East Gateway Dr, Heber
• 7810 South 1300 E, Sandy
• 10235 South State Street, Sandy
• 729 North Main St, Clearfield
• 1466 East 3500 North, Lehi
• 119 East Crossroads Blvd, Saratoga Springs
• 147 East Bangerter Highway, Draper
• 5390 South 1900 West, Roy
• 1660 West North Temple St, Salt Lake City

Burger King closures: Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota

The popular fast-food chain plans to close 5 locations throughout Kansas, Nebraska, and North Dakota.

The locations closing in Kansas include:

• 2201 East Kansas Ave, McPherson

The locations closing in Nebraska include:

• 3627 South Lincoln Avenue, York
• 2504 O St, Lincoln
• 4230 North 27th Street, Lincoln

The locations closing in North Dakota include:

• 3765 Gateway Drive, Grand Forks

Burger King closures: Montana

Montana has made the list of stores Burger King plans to close this upcoming year, they include:

• 1422 West Main Street, Lewistown
• 520 North 27th St, Billings
• 1211 9th Street West, Columbia Falls

Burger King closures: Minnesota

Burger King has announced that mass closures are being planned to protect the brand from further damage.

Here are the closures set to take place in Minnesota:

• 209 Nokomis Street, Alexandria
• 926 Central Avenue Northeast, East Grand Forks
• 528 Western Ave, Fergus Falls
• 21 Depot Street, Litchfield
• 205 Lake Street, Long Prairie
• 586 Southwest 1st Street, Montevideo
• 516 East Bridge Street, Redwood Falls
• 100 21st Street North, Moorhead
• 1611 US-12, Willmar

Burger King dealing with massive closures this year

Joshua Kobza of Restaurant Brands International, Burger King’s parent company, said that mass closures are being planned to protect the brand from further damage.

The fast-food giant surprised analysts with a 12.3 percent increase in global same-store sales in the first quarter of the year and an 8.7 percent increase in same-store sales in the U.S. after launching a $400million “Reclaim the Flame” campaign.

However, RBI chairman Patrick Doyle said that stores unable to meet sales goals will be asked to shut down in the coming months.

Additional Starbucks closures

This year, in total, Starbucks has permanently closed three locations in DuPage, Illinois, Detroit, Michigan, and Fresno, California.

Meanwhile, Starbucks has targeted other union stores too.

This includes another in Ithaca on College Avenue, which shuttered in June 2022.

Additionally, Starbucks shut down a union store in Boston’s Cleveland Circle. Massachusetts.

The company said it would close in March temporarily due to “plumbing issues.

Starbucks to close locations next week

The coffee chain is planning to close its remaining locations in Ithaca, New York on Friday, May 26.

The stores affected are on East Seneca Street and South Meadow Street.

While Starbucks has denied this was the case for the closure, these locations all voted to unionize.

The company told The U.S. Sun that it is a part of the closures are a part of its so-called Reinvention Plan, which involves transforming its store portfolio.

“We’ve gone to extraordinary efforts to staff, hire and support these stores so that our partners and customers are able to have the Starbucks experience they deserve,” Starbucks said.

Nike rival closes down after more than 40 years of business

SMS Sportsworld, which has been located in South Carolina’s Orangeburg Mall Circle for more than 40 years, plans to shutter forever following the sale of all of its merchandise.

The men who founded the sports equipment retailer 41 years ago, Dick Sheridan, Melicue Metts, and Richard Salley named it SMS after their own last names, The Times and Democrat reported.

Bobby Sheridan, Dick Sheridan’s son, is handling the store’s closeout as both Metts and Salley got out of the business over a decade ago, leaving Sheridan as the sole owner.

“My father, Mr. Metts, and Mr. Salley thank you for half a century of shopping here,” Bobby said.

He added: “We wish we could have stayed longer but it is time to go.”

Target closes struggling stores

Target announced it would be closing down four stores that couldn’t keep up with the chain’s financial expectations.

The areas affected include:

Bed Bath & Beyond closing its doors for good

Company leaders at Bed Bath & Beyond also announced the home goods giant is closing all 360 stores after filing for bankruptcy in April.

In addition, all the company’s 120 buybuyBABY locations will be going under as well.

Up to 30,000 jobs could be lost due to the store closures.

Tuesday Morning having struggles

With consumer spending being cramped by high inflation, many other brick-and-mortar shops are feeling the pressure.

Home goods store Tuesday Morning filed for bankruptcy in February and shortly after announced the closure of half of its retail locations.

At least 860 stores have reported their upcoming closures in 2023.

Stores in states including but not limited to California, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Nevada, and Nebraska will be shuttering this year.

Best Buy cuts down on employees

After closing multiple locations, Best Buy has also released thousands of employees.

Overall, Best Buy cut down its employee base in the US and Canada from 125,000 in early 2020 to just 90,000 at the start of the year.

Best Buy is leaning into its digital growth as e-commerce sales now make up 33 percent of its revenue in the United States, up from just 19 percent three years ago.

Best Buy closings revealed

Best Buy has decided to close multiple stores in different locations after the company predicted overall sales to fall this year during its prior earnings call.

The shuttered stores include the following:

1. Farragut, Tennessee
2. Hixson, Tennessee
3. St. Joseph, Missouri
4. Two stores in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area of Minnesota
5. Shakopee, Minnesota
6. Blaine, Minnesota
7. Temecula, California
8. Pflugerville, Texas
9. Algonquin, Illinois

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PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — The Philadelphia Eagles are battling it out with the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship game.

The winner of the game will take on either the Chiefs or Bengals in Super Bowl LVII. Here are live updates from Lincoln Financial Field:

3:27pm Eagles win the challenge. Fumble recovery. Birds back on the field.

3:16:pm Miles Sanders 6 yrd. run for a TD. Eagles lead 7-0.

3:12 pm: Big catch by Devonta Smith to convert for a first down.

3:11 pm: Fans are packed into Xfinity Live

3:00 pm: Grammy Award winner Anita Baker kicks off the NFC Championship with the national anthem.

2:40pm: Kevin Hart, Joel Embiid, DeSean Jackson, Michael Rubin and Corey Clement on the field at the Linc before the game

Possible road closures

At the conclusion of Sunday’s game, temporary traffic closures may be put into place to maintain public safety at the Sports Complex District, and in the vicinity of City Hall and surrounding Center City streets between 8th and 20th Streets and Race and Lombard Streets.

Travel delays can be expected and motorists are advised to avoid the area by using alternate routes, and allow for extra driving time when traveling in the vicinity.

Please follow all posted signs, detours and traffic control devices.

Philadelphia Eagles fans prior to the NFC Divisional playoff game between the Eagles and the New York Giants on January 21, 2023 at Lincoln Financial Field.

Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

public transportation

For those attending the NFC Championship Game on Sunday, SEPTA will accommodate passengers traveling to the game with extra trains on the Broad Street Line. This Sports Express service will run every 10 minutes beginning at 11:10 am, with trips starting at Fern Rock Station and stopping at Olney, Erie, Girard, Spring Garden, Race-Vine, City Hall, and Walnut-Locust Stations before reaching NRG Station Unibet, a platform for online sports betting, bingo, and poker, will help Eagles fans get home safely after the NFC Championship Game by sponsoring free rides home from NRG Station on the Broad Street Line.

At the conclusion of Sunday’s game, temporary SEPTA route detours may be put into place and service is subject to change. Customers should refer to System Status regularly for updates to routing throughout the day.

For more information about SEPTA, including schedules and trip planning tools, visit www.septa.org, and follow @SEPTA for real-time travel updates.

Public Safety Information

Throughout the day, the City will provide law-enforcement support, traffic control, and emergency medical services at the Sports Complex District and other key locations for public safety.

In addition, the public should expect congestion in these areas. If you are attending the game, make a plan regarding driving, public transit, parking, and supervision of children. It is recommended that attendees wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire.

Leave no bags or items unattended. In an emergency or to report a suspicious person, activity or item (a backpack, a package, a container), notify a police officer immediately or call 9-1-1. Do not try to open, move, cover or touch a suspicious item.

For tips and general information about being prepared and ready at special events, check out the Special Event Safety Guide.

Additional protocols for the upcoming game are being evaluated by the Philadelphia Police Department and our public safety partners. PPD will institute the practice of ‘greasing poles’ as a deterrent for climbing poles and light fixtures. Based on prior experience in these situations, and to control the flow of crowds, barricades have been put into place at key locations for public safety. General tips for business owners regarding public safety can be found online.

stay connected

Any information and updates will be published on the Office of Emergency Management (@Philaoem), City of Philadelphia (@PhiladelphiaGov), and Police (@PhillyPolice) Twitter pages.

Be sure to sign up for emergency and informational text messages from the Office of Emergency Management at www.phila.gov/ready or texting “READYPHILA” to 888-777.

Copyright © 2023 WPVI-TV. All rights reserved.

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SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — Intense storms that battered the San Francisco Bay Area for more than a week caused flooding, downed trees and power outages. After another weekend of rain and strong winds, some dry days are ahead this week, but another storm is expected Wednesday. Even with a break in the rain for now, the region is still facing residual effects as a result of the strong storm.

Jan. 16, 2023

11 p.m.
People head outside to enjoy the sunshine for 1st time in weeks as storm cleanup continues

After a seemingly never-ending stretch of storms, the sunshine is finally back in the Bay Area.

In San Francisco, a still soaked Crissy Field was alive with people.

“We didn’t have to bring our umbrella. We just kind of walked out of the house and didn’t have to worry about getting drenched,” said Kate Costello.

But it wasn’t bright skies for everyone. Earlier in the day, The Golden Gate National Recreation Area tweeted a photo of an old military structure on the beach of Fort Funston after it slid down a nearby bluff.

“I believe that what rolled out of the hill this morning was a piece of the rifle range, apparently dated to the 1930s,” said retired National Park Service Curator, John Martini.

The structure tumbled off the cliff around 10 a.m. Monday, likely due to the saturated land according to park officials.

“We actually did a study to see could we stabilize in place some of these structures, especially some of the gun positions, and it was just so prohibitively expensive,” said Martini.

Fort Funston is home to several such military structures, some of which played roles during the second world war.

Due to time and erosion, several have fallen over the years.

No one was injured in the slide, but park staff reminded visitors to be cautious of their surroundings in the area.

4 p.m.
Hwy 13 expected to reopen Monday evening after closure for mudslides

Caltrans crews are still working Monday afternoon to remove mud from a stretch of of southbound Highway 13 in Oakland, where a fallen tree and mudslides closed the road late Sunday night.

The road is expected to reopen between 5 and 6 p.m. Monday, according California Highway Patrol Officer Adib Zeid.

3:40 p.m.
Southbound lanes of Hwy 1 reopen after rockslide near Tom Lantos Tunnels

The southbound lanes of Highway 1 near the Tom Lantos Tunnels have reopened after a massive boulder and rockslide blocked part of the roadway.

3:30 p.m.
South Bay reservoirs spilling following storms

This series of atmospheric storms filled many Santa Clara County reservoirs to the point of spilling.

“Uvas Reservoir in South County has been spilling for a good week, Almaden Reservoir on and off, Coyote Reservoir been spilling,” said Bassam Kassab, Water Supply Operation Manager for Valley Water.

The most recent to spill has been Lexington Reservoir near Los Gatos.

Crews have been working to clear debris and blockage throughout the county but one of the most important jobs for those who manage the local waterways will be to draw down the reservoirs to stop the spilling.

They expect spilling at Lexington to stop in the next three days and the other reservoirs within a week or two.

This time of year, Valley Water says the reservoirs can’t stay completely full in case more storms come, so they will be releasing some of the water until the spring when we typically don’t expect as much rain.

2:15 p.m.
WWII bunker slides off bluff onto beach at Fort Funston

Golden Gate National Recreation Area officials are urging visitors to be attentive to their surroundings and follow trailhead signs after a WWII bunker slid off a bluff and onto the beach below.

1:10 p.m.
Both directions of Hwy 37 reopen after flooding

The California Highway Patrol tweeted Monday afternoon that both directions of Highway 37 are open and only the right westbound lane remains closed for safety reasons. It will reopen once CHP deems it to be safe.

1 p.m.
Massive boulder, rockslide blocking part of Hwy 1 near Devil’s Slide

A massive boulder and rockslide are blocking part of Highway 1 near the Tom Lantos Tunnels. Video taken from ABC7 reporter Gloria Rodriguez shows cars are still able to make it around the boulder but traffic is slowed in the area.

12:30 p.m.
19 homes evacuated along Kirker Creek in Pittsburg

Pittsburg PD confirms they asked families in at least 19 homes along the Kirker Creek to evacuate overnight, along with four units in the Fox Creek Apartment complex. Twelve people were rescued via boat by a swift-water rescue team.

12 p.m.
Rushing water at the Lexington Reservoir

Video shows the Lexington Reservoir spillway outflow at the base of the dam. The water goes into Los Gatos Creek.

8:20 a.m.
NB 101 in Redwood City closed

Lanes are blocked on Northboound 101 in Redwood City due to emergency pothole repairs at Woodside Road. Dozens of cars have been damaged by the large pothole.

CHP says to expect delays and advises using alternate routes. There is no estimated time of opening.

8:15 a.m.
Berkeley mudslides shutdown roads, cause evacuation warnings

Several areas in Berkeley have seen mudslides Monday morning.

The spiral between Wildcat Canyon and Middlefield, Middlefield North of the crossways, and Wildcat Canyon between Sunset and Park Hills Road are closed due to a mudslide.

Berkeley police are advising residents in the area to be prepared to evacuate, and say some already have.

UC Berkeley police also say to avoid the area of Sports Lane at the Clark Kerr campus because of a mudslide.

Read more here.

Jan. 15, 2023

9:40 p.m.
Santa Clara County extends evacuation warning to include more areas

The County of Santa Clara announced an extension to existing evacuation warnings to include community members residing in the watershed areas along the Bloomfield Avenue Area – between Highways 25 and 152, and south of Bloomfield Avenue to the county line – due to the weather conditions and potential risks of flooding to the general public and property.

SCC said the prior evacuation warning zone is being expanded due to two levy breaches in San Benito County, which is adjacent to the expanded zone area.

The county’s office of emergency services recommends that community members living in the marked areas should gather their household members, pets, personal items, important documents, prescription medications, change of clothes, non-perishable foods, water, extra batteries, flashlights, and phone chargers in preparation for potential evacuations.

The county also announced a Local Assistance Center at San Martin Lion’s Club, located at 12415 Murphy Ave. in San Martin. This shelter is accessible and all service animals are welcome.

4:35 p.m.
Caltrans announces several storm-related highway closures

The latest winter storm system to move through the Bay Area region has resulted in various highway closures in the following locations due to road hazards on the highway, says Caltrans:

East Bay:

Alameda County — SR 84 (Niles Canyon) from Main Street in Sunol to Mission Boulevard in Fremont is closed.

North Bay:

Sonoma County — SR 1 near Coleman Gulch Road. One-way traffic control in place.

Sonoma County — SR 1 at Russian Gulch to Meyers Grade Road. One-way traffic control in place.

Marin County — Full closure of SR 37 between U.S. 101 and Atherton Avenue, including connector ramps from U.S. 101

Napa County — Westbound SR 128 near Lower Chiles Valley Road. One-way traffic control in place.

South Bay:

Santa Clara County — Eastbound SR 130 near Quimby Road. Local Traffic Only.

San Mateo County — SR 92 from upper SR 35 to Pilarcitos Creek Road, Half Moon Bay. One-way traffic control.

San Mateo County — Lane reduction in place on southbound U.S. 101 near Broadway Street.

San Mateo County — Northbound SR 1 near Pescadero Road. One-way traffic control in place.

4:15 p.m.
More slides prompt new, continued closures to parts of Hwy 1, Caltrans says

Caltrans says it continues to make assessments in its recovery efforts for numerous locations on Highway 1 that have been impacted by the series of California storms.

Multiple locations continue to be closed:

• Roads just south of Mill Creek are closed both ways due to a recent rockslide
• Crews are responding to an area north of Lucia, where a lane has accrued over one foot of debris and sediment over the last two days
• A new closures is in place at the location known as Morning Glory
• The southern closure of Highway 1 will remain at the elephant seal viewing area, four miles north of San Simeon.
• A significant slide, one mile south of Ragged Point, extends over both lanes of travel. As a result, the highway is impassible at this location and is expected to restrict access to Ragged Point from the south for several weeks.

Caltrans crews will be onsite at these locations over the next few days to help clear the roadways.

12:50 p.m.
Hwy 37 in Novato to remain closed indefinitely, Caltrans says

Highway 37 between Highway 101 and Atherton Ave. in Novato will remain closed indefinitely, Caltrans said in a tweet.

11 a.m.
Both directions of Hwy 37 in Novato to remain closed until Monday, Caltrans says

Highway 37 between Highway 101 and Atherton Ave. in Novato will remain closed until Monday, Caltrans said. The area closed after water rose from the Novato Creek Saturday afternoon.

Caltrans is continuing to pump out flood water, but crews say, more water is coming from downstream.

10 a.m.
Muir Woods in Mill Valley reopens Sunday

After being closed Saturday due to storm, Muir Woods is expected to reopen Sunday, but at a later time, at 10 a.m.

9 a.m.
Both directions of Hwy 37 closed in Novato due to flooding, CHP says

Image of flooding at Highway 37 in Novato, Calif. on Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023.

California Highway Patrol

The California Highway Patrol says both directions of Highway 37 from Atherton Ave. to U.S. Route 101 in Novato are closed due to severe flooding.

Crews are trying to pump out floodwater.

No word when the highway will reopen.

8 a.m.
Highway 92 near Half Moon Bay partially reopens, crews continue to repair sinkhole

Caltrans has partially reopened state Highway 92 near Half Moon Bay as of Saturday evening.

One-way traffic control went into effect just after 8 p.m. Saturday on eastbound Highway 92 at Highway 35 (Skyline Boulevard) to Pilarcitos Creek Road in Half Moon Bay.

Westbound Highway 92 remains closed from Highway 35 to Pilarcitos Creek Road in Half Moon Bay.

The closure remains in effect while work crews continue to make repairs on a sinkhole.

Jan. 14, 2023

8 p.m.
Golden Gate Bridge reopens both directions after big rig overturn: Caltrans

Golden Gate Bridge is opening back up in both directions, according to Caltrans. Drivers should expect traffic delays, consider alternate routes, and allow for additional travel time.

7:15 p.m.
SR 37 near Atherton Avenue in Marin Co. closed in both directions due to flooding: Caltrans

Caltrans in coordination with the California Highway Patrol has closed State Route 37 in both eastbound and westbound directions near Atherton Avenue in Novato due to storm related flooding.

Motorists are encouraged to use U.S. 101 to I-580 Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, then eastbound I-80 to travel from Marin County to Solano and other North Bay destinations.

7 p.m.
Golden Gate Bridge closed in both directions due to overturned big rig: Caltrans

The Golden Gate Bridge closed in both directions early Saturday evening due to an overturned big rig. Emergency crews and the California Highway Patrol are on scene. Motorists can expect traffic delays.

4 p.m.
Flood Advisory in effect in Santa Cruz Co., NWS says

The National Weather Service issued a Flood Advisory in Santa Cruz County until 6 p.m.

1 p.m.
Evacuation orders for Holohan, East Lake and College in Santa Cruz County, officials say

Evacuations are underway along Holohan, East Lake and College areas in Santa Cruz County, officials say

11:30 a.m.
Hundreds without power in West Marin after giant tree knocks down power lines, blocks road

PG&E is trying to restore power after a giant Cypress tree fell on the road knocking down power lines on Highway 1 in Point Reyes in West Marin.

The tree fell at Mesa Rd. and Cypress Rd. shutting down the road. Caltrans is working to clear the tree, according to ABC7’s Cornell Barnard who’s at the scene.

At last check, nearly 900 customers in the area are without power.

10:40 a.m.
Muir Woods in Marin County closed Saturday due to weather, park says

Officials with Muir Woods say the park will be closed Saturday as a result of the morning’s storm. “Due to severe storm impacts, weather forecast, and road conditions, we have decided to close Muir Woods today.”

They say reservations will be automatically canceled and refunded. They will monitor Sunday’s weather conditions to see if the park will reopen.

10:35a.m.
Parts of Cloverdale Road in Pescadero in San Mateo County closed due to mudslide, CAL FIRE says

Parts of Cloverdale Road in Pescadero in San Mateo County is closed due to mudslide, CAL FIRE CZU said on Saturday. Officials say the closure is near Butano State Park Road. Drivers should avoid the area. There is no estimate of reopening.

9:25 a.m.
Flood Watch undegraded to Flood Warning for Sonoma County, Santa Rosa fire officials say

The National Weather Service has upgraded a Flood Watch to a Flood Warning for Sonoma County through 2:30 p.m., Santa Rosa fire officials said. The NWS could change the time of the warning based on weather conditions, officials added.

8.30 a.m.
Report of power lines down in Berkeley, firefighters say

The Berkeley fire department is advising residents to avoid the area of Clairmont Ave. between Stonewall, Tanglewood and Avalon until further notice due to multiple power lines down in Clairmont. More info here.

8 a.m.
Evacuations underway in Felton Grove in Santa Cruz Co. due to major storm, officials say

Emergency evacuations are underway in Felton Grove because of the relentless weather.

“Deputies are in the area. If you live in the neighborhood, please leave now,” Santa Cruz County officials tweeted Saturday morning.

They’re concerned about possible flooding along the San Lorenzo River later today.

There are two evacuation centers open for this community.

One is at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Watsonville.

Another is set up at Cabrillo College in Aptos.

Both areas are pet friendly and have RV parking.

This is an area that has already been hit hard.

The town of Felton has been pummeled with rain — leaving a swampy mess for people living in the Felton Grove neighborhood.

Residents have had to evacuate multiple times since the start of the new year due to major flooding.

And this morning, Santa Cruz County officials urging residents to get out once again.

7:45 a.m.
Pregame flyover over Levi’s Stadium canceled

Saturday’s scheduled pregame flyover over Levi’s Stadium has been canceled because of weather.

The wild-card playoff game will still continue.

The 49ers are set to play against the Seattle Seahawks at 1:30 p.m.

6 a.m.
High Surf Warning in effect for coastline until 10 a.m.

A High Surf Warning is in effect for the coastline until 10 a.m. Saturday due to the heavy rain and strong wind. Waves are expected to be 20 – 25 feet tall. Officials say people should stay out of the water because of life-threatening swimming and surf conditions.

5:30 a.m.
Wind Advisory in effect for Bay Area Saturday morning, Solano Co. until 6 p.m.

There is a Wind Advisory in effect for the entire Bay Area this morning. The advisory will be in effect longer for Solano County from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday.

5a.m.
Flood Watch in effect for entire Bay Area this weekend through Monday with more rain, strong winds

There is a Flood Watch for the entire Bay Area through Monday at 4 p.m. with flooding possible as strong Level 3 Storm makes way to the Bay Area Saturday morning.

Jan. 13, 2023

11 p.m.
Marin Co. first responders gear up for the weekend, while still recovering from Friday’s storm

At an apartment complex in Fairfax, a mudslide crashed into the building from an adjacent hill, displacing 19 residents along with their pets.

“I got woken up this morning by a loud knock on the door. It was the fire department saying the whole hill was coming down,” said one of the evacuees.

Another slide happened down the road in Lagunitas, where one family was left to clean up the mess in their backyard.

While Friday was a busy day for first responders around Marin County, fire officials tell ABC7 News they’re also gearing up for what’s to come this weekend.

At the Marin County Fire Station in Woodacre, Battalion Chief Graham Groneman showed us some of the search and rescue equipment he and his team are getting ready for the coming days.

“We’re going to see trees down, power lines down. People are going to be out of power. And I think it all comes down to where the storm impacts the Bay Area,” he said.

He says that there will be several teams on standby throughout the county, ready to respond in a moment’s notice.

“We’ve had multiple deployments of our urban search and rescue team and our water team in preparation for these storm events,” said Groneman.

But after weeks of heavy rain and wind, Groneman says he thinks everyone is ready for a little break.

“I think we’re all ready for the sun to come out and things to dry out a little bit.”

8 p.m.
North Bay under Flood Advisory until 10 p.m.

The National Weather Service issued a Flood Advisory for portions of the Northern Bay Area, including Sonoma County until 10 p.m. this evening. NWS says urban and small stream flooding caused by additional rainfall on already saturated soil is expected.

This will have an impact of :

• Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas
• Rises in small streams
• Dangerous flows over low-water crossings
• Water over roadways
• Overflowing poor drainage areas
• Some impassable low-water crossings
• Elevated river or stream flows
• Ponding of water in urban or other area

“Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles,” said NWS in its announcement.

The agency also recommends the public to:

• Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.
• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads. Find an alternate route.
• Please report observed flooding to local emergency services or law enforcement and request they pass this information to the National Weather service when you can do so safely.

5:45 p.m.
Evacuation warnings issued for parts of Santa Clara County

Santa Clara County has issued evacuation warnings for watershed areas of the Uvas Reservoir, Pacheo Pass River basin and Highway 101 and Bolsa Road due to potential risk of flooding and weather conditions.

Pacheco Pass River Basin for those living in the areas of:

• El Toro Rd South of HWY 152 to Bloomfield Ave
• Lovers Lane between Shore Rd and HWY 152

Watershed Areas of the Uvas Reservoir include those living:

• South of Uvas Reservoir including Thousand Trails RV Park and Uvas Pines RV Park
• South of Sycamore Drive and Watsonville Rd
• Homes south of Lions Peak
• South of Day Road and Geri Lane
• Watsonville and HWY 152

HWY 101 and Bolsa Rd.:

• South of Hwy 152, East of Hwy 101.
• South of Pacheco Pass (Hwy 152) and East of Hwy 101.
• South of Luchessa Ave. and East of Thomas Rd.
• East of Santa Teresa Blvd. to Castro Valley Rd.
• North of Castro Valley Rd. to Luchessa Ave.
• North of Hwy 25 between Hwy 101 & Bloomfield Rd.
• West of Bloomfield Ave. between Hwy 25 & Pacheco Pass (Hwy 152)
• East of Hwy 101 to Pacheco Pass (Hwy 152)

The county is encouraging resident to stay off the roads, creek beds, waterways and fast moving waters. For more information, go to www.PrepareSCC.org/Flood.

5 p.m.
Santa Clara County braces for more storms

In Santa Clara County, clean up and repairs continue after the region was hit with flooding and mass power outages.

Now, officials are preparing for the next round of storms and working to make sure the public is ready too.

“Crews, as you’re well aware, are working around the clock for the past few weeks to remove debris and other blockages from those portions of creeks and streams throughout Santa Clara County,” said John Varela, Valley Water board chair.

The emergency order has been extended throughout the county to provide necessary resources.

Varela says nearly 52,000 homes and businesses in Santa Clara County are within the FEMA special flood hazard area.

County officials say the circumstances are challenging, but they’re ready for the worst.

“This season, we’ve been coordinating all year through hot weather and cold weather,” said Darrell Ray, deputy director of Santa Clara County’s Office of Emergency Management, “So we got plenty of practice throughout the last 12 months.”

Officials also urge everyone to sign up for local reverse 911 alerts like SCCalerts in Santa Clara County.

Other reminders include making sure you have an emergency plan with family and friends and have an emergency supply kit.

1 p.m.
Comcast opens free WiFi hotspots to help residents during storms

Comcast announced Friday that more than 147,000 public Xfinity WiFi hotspots throughout Northern and Central California are now available and free for anyone, including non-Xfinity customers, to use during the storms. For a map of public hotspots visit Xfinity.com/wifi.

12:45 p.m.
Wind Advisory issued for entire Bay Area on Saturday

ABC7 News Meteorologist Drew Tuma says a Wind Advisory has been issued for the entire Bay Area from 4 a.m.-Noon Saturday for wind gusts up to 50 mph.

6 a.m.
Caltrans running limited convoy operations to closure area of Hwy 1

Caltrans is running a limited convoy operation on Friday in order to allow for access in and out of the closure area of state Highway 1 for resupply runs.

This is limited access to allow for resupplies during this window of milder weather before a more intense storm passes over the region this weekend.

Convoy schedule for Friday:

• Convoy will depart from Ragged Point at 12 noon and arrive just south of Deetjen’s Inn at approximately 1:30 p.m.
• Convoy will depart from just south of Deetjen’s Inn at 3 pm and arrive at Ragged Point at approximately 4:40 p.m.

Jan. 12, 2023

6 p.m.
North Bay prepares for next round of storms

In the North Bay, a break between storms Thursday meant a chance to cleanup, dry out and assess the damage from the last storm.

Chain saws were working overtime, trying to remove a giant 100-foot Pine tree from Janine Wilson’s backyard in Santa Rosa where it toppled around 3 a.m. Thursday, after heavy storms this week.

“We heard a big boom, saw hole in the ceiling, got out and called 911,” said Wilson. Remarkably, no one was hurt but about that hole in the bedroom ceiling – it’s about 12 inches wide.

Across town, Robert Cepeda’s tree trimming crew was more than busy, he says they’ve working non-stop since New Year’s Eve.

On the fast moving Russian River, levels were holding steady at Forestville.

Flooding could happen possibly Sunday. Sonoma County Fire District Captain Shawn Johnson was watching the river and taking advantage of a break in the weather to do some swift water rescue training.

3:05 p.m.
Oakland Zoo to remain closed

Oakland Zoo tweeted on Thursday that it would remain closed due to reconstruction delays from massive sinkhole damage caused by the Bay Area storms.

2:30 p.m.
Niles Canyon Road reopens after repairs, flooding

Caltrans tweeted Thursday afternoon that Niles Canyon Road (Highway 84) between Fremont and Sunol has reopened after repairs to a guardrail and flooding.

12 p.m.
Santa Clara Co. leaders urge residents to sign up for Emergency Alerts

After devastating flooding across Santa Clara County, leaders are calling on the public to make potentially life-saving preparations on our last day of dry weather before the rain returns this weekend. The best way they say people can do this is by signing up for emergency alerts from SCCAlerts.org.

More than one million residents have signed up for the personalized alerts for where you live in the county. 166 thousand texts and made 462 calls have been sent out over our recent winter storms. This includes when the Uvas Creek Flooded in Gilroy. With flooding a possibility this weekend, Santa Clara County wants everyone to be ready for all possibilities.

“Knowledge can save lives,” Santa Clara Co. Board of Supervisors President Susan Ellenberg said. “Information can help you avert personal disaster. Connectivity allows you to protect your loved ones.”

8:30 a.m.
Flood Watch issued for entire Bay Area this weekend

ABC7 Meteorologist Drew Tuma says a Flood Watch has been issued for the entire Bay Area this weekend. While we’re getting a break from the rain Thursday, he forecasts it returning with a chance of thunderstorms Friday. An even stronger storm, a Level 3 on the exclusive ABC7 Storm Impact Scale, is expected to hit the region on Saturday, with the worst of it hitting between 6 a.m. and 12 p.m.

8:30 a.m.
Sinkhole closes both directions of Highway 92 near Half Moon Bay, CHP says

Highway 92 in San Mateo County has been shut down again in both directions due to a sinkhole that formed overnight, CHP says. Latest here.

7 a.m.
CA extreme drought virtually eliminated after January storms, Bay Area sees ‘huge gains’

A new drought monitor is out and the extreme drought category (second highest) has been virtually wiped out across California. A small sliver still exists on the California/Oregon border but that only accounts for 0.3% of the state. Full story here.

Jan. 11, 2023

5 p.m.
Hwy 92 reopens with alternating one-way traffic controls due to unsafe road conditions

Authorities say Highway 92 has reopened with alternating one-way traffic controls from upper Highway 35 west to Pilacritos Creek Road.

Earlier Thursday, CHP shut down the highway due to unsafe road conditions caused by the wet weather. CHP tweeted out a picture of the dip in the road that they said could turn into a sinkhole if cars continue to drive on that portion of the road.

2:20 p.m.
Flood Advisory issued for San Francisco, parts of Marin, San Mateo counties

ABC7 Meteorologist Drew Tuma says Flood Advisory has been issued for San Francisco, southern Marin County and northern San Mateo County.

1 p.m.
CA water officials give update on parade of storms

Officials with the California Department of Water Resources and forecasters give an update on the parade of storms that continue to cause problems across the state.

11:18 a.m.
State Route 92 in Redwood City closed in both directions at State Route 35 in Redwood City, CHP says

State Route 92 in Redwood City is closed in both directions between upper and lower State Route 35 due to unsafe road conditions caused by the wet weather, the California Highway Patrol says. They say drivers should take alternate routes.

11:12 a.m.
Eastbound lane of Bolinas Road in West Marin closed due to landslide

Marin Public Works says the eastbound lane of Bolinas Rd is closed near Sky Oaks Rd intersection in West Marin due to a landslide. Traffic controls says measures are in place allow for alternating two-way traffic through the other lane until the road can be repaired.

Jan. 10, 2023

2:15 p.m.
Gov. Gavin Newsom and CA officials give update on storm damage in Bay Area, state

Governor Gavin Newsom and California officials gave an update on the storm damage that slammed the Bay Area and state.

He says around 34,000 people across California are currently under evacuation orders and 163,000 people are without power in the state.

Gov. Newsom says the wind has been a disproportionate factor in terms of downed power lines and fallen trees.

He is reminding the public “just because it looks clear, doesn’t mean it is clear,” to take precautions with the weather.

Newsom also addressed the five-year-old San Luis Obispo boy who is missing after he was swept away in floodwaters on Monday.

“It’s at moments like this, we just pray for a miracle. That young boy child whose lives now danger having been missing for some time, down in Paso Robles.”

He also addressed how we’re in a drought. “We’re in the third year of the driest drought conditions that we’ve experienced in recorded history going back to 1896.”

Newsom also says “the dryers are getting a lot drier in the last three years and the wets are getting a lot wetter. This weather Whiplash is that new reality?”

He says the focus should be on how the state manages these challenges and how it deals with hydrology going forward. “In terms of storm water capture, rainwater capture, and how we address these floods in terms of banking the water for the future.”

1:45 p.m.
Flash Flood Warning downgraded to Flash Flood Watch

A Flash Flood Warning has been downgraded to a Flash Flood Watch for the entire Bay Area until 4 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.

1:21 p.m.
Tree falls on Muni bus in San Francisco

A big tree fell on a Muni bus in San Francisco on Tuesday, according to ABC7’s Lyanne Melendez who shot video of the incident. It happened at Stockton and Sutter. Melendez says live power lines also fell. No word yet on any injuries.

12:40 p.m.
Thunderstorms expected at parts of the Bay Area this afternoon, National Weather Service says

The National Weather Service says thunderstorms are expected to hit portions of the Bay Area throughout the afternoon on Tuesday. They are advising residents to take precautions, saying “when thunder roars, go indoors.”

Officials say Sutro Tower in San Francisco suffered a lightning strike as a thunderstorm moved across the city.

12:20 p.m.
Flash Flood Warning issued for SF, Daly City and South San Francisco, NWS says

A Flash Flood Warning has been issued for San Francisco, Daly City CA and South San Francisco until 3:30 p.m., the National Weather Service tweeted on Tuesday.

10:00 a.m.
SF sees half a year’s worth of rain in last 2 weeks

ABC7 News Meteorologist Drew Tuma says San Francisco has seen half a year’s worth of rain in the last two weeks. Since Christmas Day we have only experienced two completely dry days.

9 a.m.
These State Routes are closed in Santa Cruz County, CHP says

SR-9 at Keystone way

SR-9, between Glen Arbor Rd. and Holiday Ln.

SR-9, north of SR-236

SR-9 at Lazy Woods Rd.

SR-35 at Bear Creek Rd.

SR-236 at Little Basin Rd.

9 a.m.
Nearly 100,000 power outages in Bay Area

PG&E is reporting over 93,000 power outages on Tuesday, with most coming from the South Bay.

PG&E says that over 53,000 outages are in the South Bay and over 19,000 outages are on the Peninsula.

Downed trees and power lines have caused issues Tuesday morning.

4:45 a.m.
Flood Warning canceled for Russian River

The flood warning along the Russian River has been canceled as cresting moved just below the 32-foot flood stage.

However, there remains significant flooding and damage in the area. The parking lot at Steelhead Beach on the Russian River is underwater.

John Cordes says his friend’s entire yard in Guerneville flooded and his only way out was by boat.

Two cars submerged in flood waters at Slusser and River Roads just outside Santa Rosa.

Fire crews also helped rescue the driver trapped in a Mercedes.

4:30 a.m.
Southbound Hwy 17 has reopened

Following a landslide that blocked the road on Monday, Highway 17 at Glenwood Dr. in Los Gatos has reopened.

Before reopening the highway, CHP officers were out checking the roadways, which were lined with downed trees.

Jan. 9, 2023

7:45 p.m.
All lanes reopened on Highway 101 in Gilroy

The northbound and southbound lanes of Highway 101 in Gilroy have reopened, according to a Caltrans tweet. Both directions closed following major flooding on the highway and homes flooding.

Video shows homes, highways near Gilroy flooded following major storm

6:15p.m.
Southbound Highway 101 in Gilroy reopens

ABC7’s Amanda del Castillo said the southbound direction of Highway 101 in Gilroy has reopened.

5:30 p.m.
The following roads remain closed or experiencing flooding in Gilroy:

Northbound-one lane is open, all southbound lanes are closed. Closure anticipated through at least 6 p.m. For updates, visit here.

The City of Gilroy said drivers need to avoid Silva’s Crossing and the Christmas Hill Park area due to high flood waters and dangerous conditions.

As of 5:30 p.m., the following roads are now open to traffic:

3:30 p.m.
Evacuation warnings issued for parts of Santa Clara Co. due to flooding

Evacuation warnings have been issued for residents living in the areas of Highway 101 and Bolsa Road due to flooding and other severe weather impacts.

The areas include:

• South of Hwy 152, East of Hwy 101.
• South of Pacheco Pass (Hwy 152) and East of Hwy 101.
• South of Luchessa Ave. and East of Thomas Rd.
• East of Santa Teresa Blvd. to Castro Valley Rd.
• North of Castro Valley Rd. to Luchessa Ave.
• North of Hwy 25 between Hwy 101 & Bloomfield Rd.
• West of Bloomfield Ave. between Hwy 25 & Pacheco Pass (Hwy 152)
• East of Hwy 101 to Pacheco Pass (Hwy 152)

12:50 p.m.
Stretch of southbound Hwy 101 closed near Gilroy due to flooding

A stretch of southbound Highway 101 is closed near Gilroy on Monday due to flooding, police said.

Southbound lanes at Mesa Road, just south of Monterey Highway, are closed, according to an advisory sent shortly before noon.

Bolsa Road is also flooding between Travel Park Circle and Carnadero Avenue, police said.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area and use alternate routes.

11:50 p.m.
San Jose reporting several road closures due to flooding, landslides

The City of San Jose is reporting several road closure throughout the city due to flooding and landslides. Officials say Bailey Road between McKean Road and Santa Teresa is closed due to flooding and slides. Gardendale Drive, south of Hillsdale Avenue is closed due to “water levels overtopping.” Lastly, Mill Pond Drive under Highway 87 is closed due to flooding.

11:45 a.m.
Santa Cruz. Co bridge collapses into Carrolitos Creek

Fire officials are warning drivers to use another route in Santa Cruz County after the Browns Valley Road Bridge collapsed into the Carrolitos Creek. They say crews have responded to the scene and made contact with residents in the area.

11:30 a.m.
San Jose airport parking lot closed due to flooding

Officials at Mineta San Jose Int’l Aiport say Parking Lot 2 is currently closed due to flooding. Officials say that it does not impact cars already in the lot but the entrance to the lot. Travelers are being advised to use an alternative lot if you are parking at the airport today.

11:10 a.m.
Flooding reported on Crossover Drive through Golden Gate Park

Residents are encouraged to avoid the stretch of Crossover Drive that runs through Golden Gate Park due to flooding, according to an alert notification from AlertSF.

Emergency crews are working to clear the road between Fulton Street and Lincoln Way.

Drivers can expect additional travel time, and should consider alternative routes, said the notification.

Life traffic updates can be found at https://511.org/.

10:50 a.m.

All westbound lanes of Hwy 37 in Marin County closed due to flooding

Caltrans says all westbound lanes of Highway 37 at Atherton Drive in Marin County are closed due to flooding. For live traffic conditions head to https://quickmap.dot.ca.gov.

10:45 a.m.
Road closures reported in Fairfield due to flooding

Flooding in Fairfield resulted in some road closures Monday morning, police said.

The closures include the on- and off- ramps to: Webster Street from Highway 12 and from Jackson Street to Highway 12. In addition, Abernathy at Suisun Valley Road are closed due to floods, according to police.

Residents were advised to never drive through flooded roadways and if possible, to avoid traveling.

Flooding can be reported to the Fairfield Police Departments dispatch at (707) 428-7300.

10 a.m.
Southbound Highway 17 closed due to landslide

The California Highway Patrol tweeted out Monday morning that southbound Highway 17 is closed south of Glenwood Drive due to a landslide.

8:50 a.m.
Several Petaluma roads closed due to flooding

Roads across Petaluma has been closed due to flooding that has stranded several drivers. Authorities advise residents to avoid flooded roads and use detours. They say the rain is subsiding in the area but runoff from the Petaluma River watershed will continue for the next few hours.

• Petaluma Blvd North between Corona Road and US 101.
• Old Redwood Hwy between North McDowell and US 101.
• The intersection of Petaluma North and Industrial Drive/Stony Point Road is closed.
• Stony Point Road between Petaluma Blvd North and Pepper Road.
• Rainsville Road between Stony Road and Liberty Road.
• Lakeville Hwy (SR-116) between Stage Gulch Road and Frates Road.
• Westbound Lakeville in the 100 block, near Madison Street.
• Northbound North McDowell at Redwood Way.

8:15 a.m.
An Evacuation Warning has been issued for parts of Vacaville

Authorities have issued an Evacuation Warning for residents in the Southwood Place area in Vacaville. Officials say anyone living South of Marshall Road, East of Peabody, North of Alamo and West of the Putah Canal is advised there is a potential threat to life and property.

6:40 a.m.
Santa Cruz County evacuations

There are evacuations happening Monday morning in Santa Cruz County as the San Lorenzo River is at flood stage.

Aptos Beach Flats are under evacuation orders, as well as people in Felton Grove and Paradise Park.

You are also asked to leave if you are in Soquel Wharf Road.

People evacuating in the county can go to the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Watsonville and Cabrillo College in Aptos. Both areas are pet friendly and have RV parking.

Santa Cruz County provided this link to check on evacuations. You can also call 831-454-2285 for details on evacuations and shelters.

5:00 a.m.
President Biden approves California Emergency Declaration

The White House has approved Governor Gavin Newsom’s request to declare a federal emergency in California due to floods and storms.

This allows the state to get more federal funds and resources.

That includes Napa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma, and Santa Cruz counties.

This comes after Newsome announced the state government has mobilized resources.

Jan. 8, 2023

5:30 p.m.
Several Sonoma Co. schools will remain closed due to severe weather

As of Sunday night, some Sonoma County schools will remain closed on Monday due to severe weather. Here’s a list.

2:45 p.m.
Gov. Newsom discusses statewide efforts on flood safety amid severe winter storms

In a press conference, Governor Gavin Newsom and state, local and federal officials provided updates on the ongoing severe winter storms impacting California. The Governor highlighted flood preparations and discuss statewide efforts around flood safety.

He says the state government has mobilized resources to respond to flooding, power outages and major disasters.

Gov. Newsom is urging the public to use common sense and avoid putting yourself in dangerous situations.

“Just a foot of water and your car is floating. Half a foot of water and you’re off your feet. Half a foot of water you’re losing control of your vehicle. We’re seeing people go around these detours. because they don’t see any obstacles. they think everything is fine. putting their lives at risk and putting first responders lives at risk.

The California National Guard has mobilized troops and has four rescue helicopters on standby- including one here in the Bay Area.

Ambulance strike teams have also been activated around the state.

Drivers are being asked to postpone travel, if possible.

11:45 a.m.
A High Wind Warning issued for the entire Bay Area starting tonight through Monday morning

A High Wind Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for the entire Bay Area starting at 8 p.m. tonight lasting through tomorrow morning, ABC7 meteorologist Drew Tuma tweeted on Sunday. Winds could gust as high as 60 mph around the Bay shoreline with 80 mph gusts possible along the coast and in our hills. Expect more trees down and power outages.

The National Weather Service says south winds 20 to 35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected in the valley locations. 35 to 50 mph with gusts up to 80 mph above 1000 feet.

Local gusts to around 80 mph along the coast and highest peaks.

The High Wind Warning is issued for Marin Coastal Range, Sonoma Coastal Range, North Bay Interior Mountains, Coastal North Bay, Including Point Reyes National Seashore and North Bay Interior Valleys.

The NWS says damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

9:30 a.m.
Flood Warning issued for Guadalupe River in Santa Clara County on Monday

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning for the Guadalupe River in Santa Clara County above the Almaden Expressway on Monday.

“The next in a series of strong storms will move into the area tonight into Monday. Excessive rainfall will lead to increasing flooding concerns through the day on Monday as the heaviest rain is expected to fall between the hours of 4 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Monday,” the NWS wrote.

8:30 a.m.
Muir Woods closed Sunday as park officials asses wind damage

Park officials say Muir Woods in Mill Valley will be closed on Sunday as they will assess the park from high wind damage. They said all parking reservations will be automatically canceled and refunded.

Bay City News contributed to article

Watch the latest AccuWeather forecast and take a look at recent weather stories and videos.

If you’re on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live

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The post San Francisco Bay Space storm dwell updates: Southbound lanes of Hwy 1 reopen after rockslide close to Tom Lantos Tunnels appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — An extremely dangerous atmospheric river continues to move through the San Francisco Bay Area and has caused flooding on roadways and highways around the region, as well as significant storm damage.

Thursday’s storm is ranking a strong level 3 on the exclusive ABC7 Storm Impact Scale. This is compared to the level 5 storm on Wednesday, the first level 5 in the history of the scale.

The entire region remains under a Flood Watch, and winds will continue to be an issue until 10 a.m. Thursday.

Jan. 5, 2023

5 a.m.
19-year-old killed in Fairfield crash Wednesday

ABC7 News is learning about a deadly accident that happened Wednesday morning. Police say that a 19-year-old woman was driving on Vanden Road at One Lake, which was partially flooded, when she hydroplaned and lost control. She then collided into a utility pole and did not survive the crash.

Police say she was likely going at speeds unsafe for the conditions.

The woman’s name is not being released by police.

4 a.m.
Tree falls on Oakland apartment building

A large eucalyptus tree fell on a three-story apartment building at 3293 Lynde St. in Oakland.

Jan. 4, 2023

10:46 p.m.
Evacuation warnings in Santa Clara County

Santa Clara County has issued evacuation warnings to community members residing in the watershed areas of the Uvas Reservoir and Pacheco Pass River Basin due to weather conditions and risks to the general public and property. For more details, visit the county website here.

10:35 p.m.
Toddler dies in Sonoma County home hit by falling tree

A Toddler has died after a tree fell onto a home in Occidental Wednesday night, fire officials said. The toddler aged 2.5 was home with their mom and dad when it happened.

Firefighters performed CPR while waiting for medics to arrive but the infant did not make it.

9:00 p.m.
Dam failure prompts Flash Flood Warning in San Benito Co.

The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for a dam floodgate release in northwestern San Benito County.

Dam operators reported the spillway of the North Fork Dam being compromised just after 6 p.m. and predict that water will overtop the spillway by tomorrow morning. This will impact areas, including Lovers Lane, Pacheco Creek and Santa Ana Creek.

Flooding is already being reported along the Pacheco Pass Reservoir.

NWS says residents who are in low lying areas below the North Fork Dam are urged to move to higher ground immediately.

7:25 p.m.
Wind gusts knock over gas station canopy in Daly City

This video of wind gusts so strong they knocked over the canopy of a gas station came in just minutes ago. This happened a short time ago in Daly City. At this time, we’re not hearing of any reports of injuries, but you can see the gas pump was crushed by the fallen canopy.

7:10 p.m.
Shelter-in-place in order lifted in San Rafael

The earlier Shelter in Place from Canal to mid-block Novato St due to multiple blown transformers and downed live wires has been lifted, according to San Rafael officials. Roadways have re-opened, however the power line had to be cut by PG&E and power is now out in the area, possibly expected to be out until tomorrow.

6:04 p.m.
Shelter-in-place in order in San Rafael

Officials issued a shelter-in-place order from Canal to mid-block Novato Street in San Rafael due to multiple blown transformers and live high voltage wires down. No vehicle or pedestrian traffic is allowed. For more information, visit here.

5:56 p.m.
Lanes blocked on I-280 in San Bruno

The southbound lanes of I-280 just north of Skyline Blvd in San Bruno is blocked due to multiple downed trees, CHP said.

Only one of the far left lane is open. CHP are asking drivers to avoid the area.

5:40 p.m.
Evacuation warnings for Russian River area

Officials issued an evacuation warning for residents living near the Russian River and its surrounding areas from Healdsburg to Jenner amid flooding threat. For the full list of evacuation warning zones, visit here.

Oakland, Milpitas declare State of Emergencies

The cities of Oakland and Milpitas declared local state of emergencies amid the powerful Level 5 storm. The declaration of the emergencies will enable cities to utilize all resources necessary to prepare and respond to the storm.

5:15 p.m.
San Francisco officials urge residents to stay off roads, limit 911 calls

Mayor London Breed joined city leaders to urge residents to stay off the roads as the storm intensifies Wednesday night. Officials are asking residents to limit 911 calls except for in emergency situations, as all crews are on hands-on-deck responding to weather-related incidents. For all non-emergency calls, you can dial 311.

4:30 p.m.
Mandatory evacuations ordered for multiple areas in Santa Cruz County

Evacuation orders for multiple areas of Santa Cruz County were issued Wednesday afternoon as more rainfall hit the county, bringing higher flood risks.

The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office issued evacuation orders for unincorporated areas including the Paradise Park area in zone CRZ-E081 and the Felton Grove neighborhood in zones FEL-E008 and FEL-E012.

The following evacuation zones are also under an immediate evacuation order: CTL-E010, CTL-E014, CTL-E015, CTL-E018, and CTL-E019 zones in the Soquel area north of state Highway 1, the CTL-E050, CTL-E051 zones in the La Selva Beach area, PAJ-E015, PAJ-E024, PAJ-E026, PAJ-E027, PAJ-E028, PAJ-E029 zones near Pajaro, and WTS-E017, WTS-E018, WTS-E019 zones in Watsonville.

Evacuation zone CRZ-E001-C near Whitehouse Canyon Road has also been ordered to evacuate.

Evacuation orders in those areas are mandatory and the areas are closed to public access.

In addition, areas around Capitola Village and Felton are under evacuation warnings, as are areas of Boulder Creek, the area around Last Chance Trail and the Lompico and Zayante areas. Those who require additional time to evacuate and people who have pets and livestock should evacuate now, per the Capitola Police Department and Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office.

For a complete list of evacuation zones, visit https://aware.zonehaven.com/search.

3:30 p.m.
Evacuations urged for parts of Alameda County

Residents of Kilkare, Palomares and Niles Canyon roads in Alameda County are urged to evacuate because of the storm, saturated soils and runoff, county officials said on Twitter at 2:31 p.m. Wednesday.

Rain is expected to become heavy Wednesday afternoon and stretch into Thursday. A wind warning is in effect until 10 a.m. Thursday.

3 p.m.
NOAA sending hurricane hunters into storm

ABC7 Meteorologist Drew Tuma says NOAA is sending their hurricane hunters into our atmospheric river right now to gather data on the storm’s strength.

2:30 p.m.
Departure, Arrival flights grounded at SFO

Departures and arrivals at San Francisco International Airport are grounded due to wind until at least 3 p.m., according to a representative.

2:15 p.m.
Several Bay Area counties under State of Emergency due to storm

Sonoma, Santa Clara and San Mateo counties have all declared an emergency. In Contra Costa County, the city of Danville is under a state of emergency. The city of Watsonville in Santa Cruz County has also declared a state of emergency.

11:15 a.m.
Newsom declares State of Emergency to support storm response, recovery efforts

Gov. Gavin Newsom has issued a State of Emergency for California to help with the response and recovery efforts to the large winter storm moving through the state. This will allow California to respond quickly to support local governments, authorities in their ongoing response.

11:10 a.m.
CHP issues high wind advisory for Golden Gate Bridge

The California Highway Patrol has issued a High Wind Advisory for the Golden Gate Bridge.

10:55 a.m.
CA officials give update on Level 5 storm

State officials will provide update on the state’s response to the impacts to California communities following a strong winter storm. Officials will also discuss the continued efforts the state is making to keep Californians safe.

10 a.m.
Several Bay Area schools announce closures for Wednesday, Thursday

Several schools across the Bay Area have announced they will be closed either Wednesday or Thursday due to the severe storm moving through the area. Here’s a look at the closures so far:

• Horicon School in Annapolis in Sonoma county – closed today Wednesday 1/4
• The South San Francisco Unified School District – closed Thursday 1/5 – (Classes will resume on Friday, Jan. 6)
• San Mateo Foster City School District – closed Thursday 1/5 – (Classes will resume on Friday, January 6)
• Pacifica School District closed Thursday 1/5 (Classes will resume on Friday, Jan. 6)
• Portola Valley School District – all schools will be closed Thursday 1/5 – (Classes will resume on Friday, Jan. 6)

9:45 a.m.
Crow Canyon Road in San Ramon closed, open to residents only, police say

San Ramon police say Crow Canyon Road is closed to traffic in both directions between San Ramon and Castro Valley. There is limited access for residents only.

9:30 a.m.
CHP issues High wind advisories for Bay Bridge, San Mateo Bridge and Dumbarton Bridge

The California Highway Patrol has issued high wind advisories issued for three Bay Area bridges: Bay Bridge, San Mateo Bridge and Dumbarton Bridge.

8:50 a.m.
BART warns up to 20-minute systemwide delay due to wet weather

BART is warning riders there may be up to 20-minute delays systemwide due to wet weather conditions.

8:30 a.m.
East Bay Regional Parks District closed through Thursday

The largest regional park system in the country is closing down because of the strong storm hitting the Bay Area. East Bay Regional Parks District has closed down all parks from today through tomorrow. Residents are advised by the park district to not enter the parks.

Parks are expected to reopen on Friday after officials asses the weather conditions. For reopenings and more information on east bay regional parks you can head to their website.

8 a.m.
SF out of sandbags, hope to have more later Wednesday

The San Francisco Department of Public Works said Wednesday morning that no more sandbags are currently available for residents and businesses seeking them to prevent flooding from an atmospheric river hitting the city this week.

Public Works officials said more sandbags are expected to be available at the operations yard later Wednesday, but the exact time was to be determined.

7 a.m.
Marin County activates emergency shelter for unhoused residents

Marin County activated its severe weather emergency shelter starting Wednesday for people experiencing homelessness in anticipation of more heavy rain hitting the Bay Area this week.

The overnight warming shelter is located at the Marin County Health and Wellness campus located at 3240 Kerner Blvd., in San Rafael. It will be open from 5 p.m. Wednesday to 6:30 a.m. Thursday. Individuals are encouraged to sign in by 8 p.m. Wednesday.

The nearest public transportation to the campus, according to Google Maps, is the bus stop at Bellam Boulevard and Lisbon Street, which is served by Marin Transit’s 580 and 23 routes. It is also near the stop at Kerner Boulevard and Larkspur Street served by Marin’s 23, 29, 35, 36 and 645 routes.

VIDEO: Marin Co. announces emergency shelter for unhoused community

6:30 a.m.
Danville declares local emergency through Jan. 10

The Town of Danville has proclaimed a local emergency in response to the ugly storms expected to start Wednesday, while the city is still cleaning up after last weekend’s wet weather that included flooding and mudslides.

Acting as the city’s director of emergency services, Town Manager Joe Calabrigo signed the proclamation just before noon Tuesday, according to a statement from city officials. The proclamation will remain in effect until noon on Tuesday, Jan. 10.

The declaration allows Danville greater flexibility to contract for and obtain supplies for more expedient disaster response.

Residents can contact the police department for safety concerns at (925) 820-2144. To request non-urgent assistance for clean-up or other concerns, call Danville Maintenance Services at (925) 314-3450 or go to www.danville.ca.gov/danvilleconnect.

For assistance with county-maintained or privately-maintained creeks, call county public works at (925) 313-7000 or email admin@pw.ccounty.us. For power outage information, go to www.pge.com/outagealerts. Weather can be monitored at www.weather.gov/mtr.

Jan. 3, 2023

7:18 p.m.
Evacuation orders for unhoused living near creeks

San Jose has issued a mandatory evacuation order for unhoused people living in creek areas, police tweeted. SJPD says officers are responding to creek areas and making announcements to evacuate. Shelters will be provided.

7 p.m.
An area of Santa Cruz Co. being evacuated ahead of storm

An area near Whitehouse Canyon Road in Santa Cruz County is being evacuated due to concerns with a culvert, the sheriff’s office announced on Tuesday evening.

A culvert under Whitehouse Canyon Road became undermined during the last storm and that caused a part of the roadway to fail. The sheriff’s office anticipates that the upcoming rains pose a “significant concern” that the entire culvert could completely fail, making the roadway impassable for medical and law enforcement resources.

The zone being evacuated is CRZ-E001-C. To pinpoint its location, go to https://aware.zonehaven.com/search.

Road closures can be monitored at https://sccroadclosure.org.

6:50 p.m.
San Jose announces State of Emergency before historic storm

On Tuesday, the City of San Jose proclaimed a State of Emergency ahead of the atmospheric river weather event. The proclamation provides emergency powers to the city needed to respond to the storm events, and simultaneously issues an evacuation order to people living within or along waterways for their safety.

“We want to make sure all residents are informed and prepared to stay safe, and that city staff has the ability to move quickly to relocate encampments that are in harm’s way,” San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan said.

5:50 p.m.
Mandatory evacuation orders issued for parts of Watsonville in Santa Cruz Co. at high risk of flooding

The City of Watsonville issued mandatory evacuation orders Tuesday evening for neighborhoods with a high risk of flooding ahead of Wednesday’s storm.

The city tweeted a map highlighting the areas ordered to evacuate in Santa Cruz County.

“If your residence is located within this map’s blue-shaded area, you’re asked to evacuate NOW or as soon as possible to safely get ahead of the storm’s flooding,” the tweet wrote.

An overnight shelter opened at Cesar Chavez Middle School (440 Arthur Rd.). This site will serve as the central location to accommodate residents. Shelter space will be limited, so pets must be dropped off at the Animal Shelter (580 Airport Blvd.) before the storm or make arrangements with friends or family.

Ramsay Park (1301 Main St.) is also now open and serves as a place for residents to meet up with family members and get information on available services. There will be limited onsite services.

For those who need transportation services, Lift Line will be available to assist. Please call 831-688-9663.

5:10 p.m.
SF Bay Ferry suspending service for 2 routes affecting Alameda, Oakland on Wednesday, agency says

The San Francisco Bay Ferry will be suspending service to two routes affecting Alameda and Oakland on Wednesday due to the storm forecast, the agency said on Tuesday.

The Harbor Bay and South San Francisco routes will not be sailing in either direction.

“Big southerly winds have outsized impacts at Harbor Bay and SSF terminals,” said the agency on Twitter.

All other routes will operate as scheduled, the agency said.

RELATED: Here’s how Bay Area is preparing for dangerous Level 5 storm taking aim at region

5 p.m.
Flood Warning issued for the Russian River in the North Bay

A Flood Warning has been issued on the Russian River near Johnson’s Beach in Guerneville, according to Meteorologist Drew Tuma. River forecast to crest at 35.4 feet Thursday evening causing moderate flooding.

4 p.m.
Pleasant Hill announces several sandbag locations ahead of storm

Pleasant Hill officials said Tuesday that city sandbag locations have been refilled and asked residents to respect the city’s 10-bag limit per household ahead of Wednesday’s storm.

Sandbags are located at City Hall at 100 Gregory Lane, the community center at 320 Civic Drive, and on Hawthorne Drive near Pleasant Oaks Park.

Pleasant Hill experienced flooding during last weekend’s storm and is expected to have similar issues once the next storm hits Wednesday. City officials asked people to not drive through flooded areas and around roadway closure signs and barricades.

3 p.m.
Orinda residents can fill sandbags at 2 locations

The city of Orinda has sand and empty sandbags available Tuesday at Moraga-Orinda Fire District Fire Station No. 43 at 20 Via Las Cruces, and at Fire Station No. 44 at 295 Orchard Road ahead of Wednesday’s storm.

Residents should bring their own shovels.

2:30 p.m.
Sandbags available at 2 San Ramon locations for residents

San Ramon police said sandbags are available Tuesday at two locations in the city ahead of another large storm forecast in the area.

The sandbags are available at Central Park at 12501 Alcosta Blvd. and at Athan Downs Park at 2975 Montevideo Drive.

2 p.m.
Santa Clara Co. offering free sandbags are several locations

Santa Clara County residents can get free filled sandbags from sandbag sites operated by the Santa Clara Valley Water District ahead of more heavy rainfall expected this week.

At the five Valley Water sandbag sites scattered throughout the county, residents can pick up free filled sandbags or fill their own with bags and sand the district has provided.

There are also 20 city and county public works yards with bags and sand that residents can fill themselves. A shovel and someone to help lift the sandbags is recommended since they are heavy.

Some sites may require proof of residency. More information and site locations can be found at https://www.valleywater.org/flooding-safety/flood-ready/sandbags.

12:45 p.m.
SF leaders give update on how city is preparing for storm

San Francisco leaders provided an update on how the city is preparing for the incoming atmospheric river. This comes after the city saw more than 5 inches of rainfall on New Year’s Eve causing widespread flooding making it the second wettest day in recorded history in San Francisco. Mayor London Breed says Wednesday’s storm will be significant. She is urging people to limit travel if possible. She warns of localized flooding. The mayor also says to use 911 for life-threatening emergencies, and 311 for reports of flooding in one’s home or business.

SF Department of Emergency and Management Mary Ellen Carroll says the National Weather Service has upgraded the wind gusts for Wednesday to 60 to 70 mph. There will be a Flood Watch from Wednesday at 4 a.m. to Thursday at 4 p.m. This could mean power outages and falling trees.

Officials are also recommending people to stock up on batteries and flashlights.

12:30 p.m.
SF warns sandbags are running low

SF Public Works says it is running low on sandbags. Residents asked to only get them if you really need them, limit of five per address.

“We have a limited supply of sandbags available for San Francisco residents whose properties are prone to flooding. Limit 5 per address. Pick up at our Operations Yard, Marin and Kansas streets gate. We’ll stay open until 8 p.m. Please only get sandbags if you really need them.”

Sandbags are available for residents and business owners. More details are available through “SF72” here.

8:30 a.m.
Most of Bay Area under moderate risk of flooding

The National Weather Service has placed most of the Bay Area under a moderate risk of flooding tomorrow for excessive rainfall. ABC7 Meteorologist Drew Tuma says given our wet soil conditions produced by recent heavy rains, flooding is likely.

Jan. 2, 2023

3 p.m.
NWS says powerful storm could cause ‘loss of life’

The National Weather Service said Monday that this upcoming storm will likely be “the most impactful system on a widespread scale that this meteorologist has seen in a long time.”

NWS officials say not only will this storm bring flooding, power outages and “disruption to commerce,” it will also most likely cause loss of human life. They say this system will be brutal and needs to be taken seriously.

Watch the latest AccuWeather forecast and take a look at recent weather stories and videos.

If you’re on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live

Copyright © 2023 KGO-TV. All Rights Reserved.

The post San Francisco Bay Space Stage 3 storm stay updates: A number of deaths, together with toddler, blamed on Wednesday’s storm appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — An extremely dangerous atmospheric river has moved into the San Francisco Bay Area and the first round of rain is already causing flooding on roadways and highways around the region.

However, ABC7 Meteorologist Drew Tuma says that the first wave won’t be the worst of it. The second round which arrives anywhere between 2 pm – 9 pm will slowly crawl over us with heavy rain which will make our flooding threat high.

TIMELINE: Tomorrow’s very strong storm upgraded to Level 5; NWS says could cause ‘loss of life’

This storm is ranking a Level 5 on the exclusive ABC7 Storm Impact Scale. This is the first level 5 storm in the history of the scale.

Jan 4, 2023

7 am
Marin County activates emergency shelter for unhoused residents

Marin County activated its severe weather emergency shelter starting Wednesday for people experiencing homelessness in anticipation of more heavy rain hitting the Bay Area this week.

The overnight warming shelter is located at the Marin County Health and Wellness campus located at 3240 Kerner Blvd., in San Rafael. It will be open from 5 pm Wednesday to 6:30 am Thursday. Individuals are encouraged to sign in by 8 pm Wednesday.

The nearest public transportation to the campus, according to Google Maps, is the bus stop at Bellam Boulevard and Lisbon Street, which is served by Marin Transit’s 580 and 23 routes. It is also near the stop at Kerner Boulevard and Larkspur Street served by Marin’s 23, 29, 35, 36 and 645 routes.

6:30 am
Danville declares local emergency through Jan 10

The Town of Danville has proclaimed a local emergency in response to the ugly storms expected to start Wednesday, while the city is still cleaning up after last weekend’s wet weather that included flooding and mudslides.

Acting as the city’s director of emergency services, Town Manager Joe Calabrigo signed the proclamation just before noon Tuesday, according to a statement from city officials. The proclamation will remain in effect until noon on Tuesday, Jan. 10.

The declaration allows Danville greater flexibility to contract for and obtain supplies for more expedient disaster response.

Residents can contact the police department for safety concerns at (925) 820-2144. To request non-urgent assistance for clean-up or other concerns, call Danville Maintenance Services at (925) 314-3450 or go to www.danville.ca.gov/danvilleconnect.

For assistance with county-maintained or privately-maintained creeks, call county public works at (925) 313-7000 or email admin@pw.ccounty.us. For power outage information, go to www.pge.com/outagealerts. Weather can be monitored at www.weather.gov/mtr.

Jan 3, 2023

7:18pm
Evacuation orders for unhoused living near creeks

San Jose has issued a mandatory evacuation order for unhoused people living in creek areas, police tweeted. SJPD says officers are responding to creek areas and making announcements to evacuate. Shelters will be provided.

7 p.m
An area of ​​Santa Cruz Co. being evacuated ahead of storm

An area near Whitehouse Canyon Road in Santa Cruz County is being evacuated due to concerns with a culvert, the sheriff’s office announced on Tuesday evening.

A culvert under Whitehouse Canyon Road became undermined during the last storm and that caused a part of the roadway to fail. The sheriff’s office anticipates that the upcoming rains pose a “significant concern” that the entire culvert could completely fail, making the roadway impassable for medical and law enforcement resources.

The zone being evacuated is CRZ-E001-C. To pinpoint its location, go to https://aware.zonehaven.com/search.

Road closures can be monitored at https://sccroadclosure.org.

6:50pm
San Jose announces State of Emergency before historic storm

On Tuesday, the City of San Jose proclaimed a State of Emergency ahead of the atmospheric river weather event. The proclamation provides emergency powers to the city needed to respond to the storm events, and simultaneously issues an evacuation order to people living within or along waterways for their safety.

“We want to make sure all residents are informed and prepared to stay safe, and that city staff has the ability to move quickly to relocate encampments that are in harm’s way,” San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan said.

5:50pm
Mandatory evacuation orders issued for parts of Watsonville in Santa Cruz Co. at high risk of flooding

The City of Watsonville issued mandatory evacuation orders Tuesday evening for neighborhoods with a high risk of flooding ahead of Wednesday’s storm.

The city tweeted a map highlighting the areas ordered to evacuate in Santa Cruz County.

“If your residence is located within this map’s blue-shaded area, you’re asked to evacuate NOW or as soon as possible to safely get ahead of the storm’s flooding,” the tweet wrote.

An overnight shelter opened at Cesar Chavez Middle School (440 Arthur Rd.). This site will serve as the central location to accommodate residents. Shelter space will be limited, so pets must be dropped off at the Animal Shelter (580 Airport Blvd.) before the storm or make arrangements with friends or family.

Ramsay Park (1301 Main St.) is also now open and serves as a place for residents to meet up with family members and get information on available services. There will be limited onsite services.

For those who need transportation services, Lift Line will be available to assist. Please call 831-688-9663.

5:10pm
SF Bay Ferry suspending service for 2 routes affecting Alameda, Oakland on Wednesday, agency says

The San Francisco Bay Ferry will be suspending service to two routes affecting Alameda and Oakland on Wednesday due to the storm forecast, the agency said on Tuesday.

The Harbor Bay and South San Francisco routes will not be sailing in either direction.

“Big southerly winds have outsized impacts at Harbor Bay and SSF terminals,” said the agency on Twitter.

All other routes will operate as scheduled, the agency said.

RELATED: Here’s how Bay Area is preparing for dangerous Level 5 storm taking aim at region

5 p.m
Flood Warning issued for the Russian River in the North Bay

A Flood Warning has been issued on the Russian River near Johnson’s Beach in Guerneville, according to Meteorologist Drew Tuma. River forecast to crest at 35.4 feet Thursday evening causing moderate flooding.

4 p.m
Pleasant Hill announces several sandbag locations ahead of storm

Pleasant Hill officials said Tuesday that city sandbag locations have been refilled and asked residents to respect the city’s 10-bag limit per household ahead of Wednesday’s storm.

Sandbags are located at City Hall at 100 Gregory Lane, the community center at 320 Civic Drive, and on Hawthorne Drive near Pleasant Oaks Park.

Pleasant Hill experienced flooding during last weekend’s storm and is expected to have similar issues once the next storm hits Wednesday. City officials asked people not to drive through flooded areas and around roadway closure signs and barricades.

3 p.m
Orinda residents can fill sandbags at 2 locations

The city of Orinda has sand and empty sandbags available Tuesday at Moraga-Orinda Fire District Fire Station No. 43 at 20 Via Las Cruces, and at Fire Station No. 44 at 295 Orchard Road ahead of Wednesday’s storm.

Residents should bring their own shovels.

2:30pm
Sandbags available at 2 San Ramon locations for residents

San Ramon police said sandbags are available Tuesday at two locations in the city ahead of another large storm forecast in the area.

The sandbags are available at Central Park at 12501 Alcosta Blvd. and at Athan Downs Park at 2975 Montevideo Drive.

2 pm
Santa Clara Co. offering free sandbags are several locations

Santa Clara County residents can get free filled sandbags from sandbag sites operated by the Santa Clara Valley Water District ahead of more heavy rainfall expected this week.

At the five Valley Water sandbag sites scattered throughout the county, residents can pick up free filled sandbags or fill their own with bags and sand the district has provided.

There are also 20 city and county public works yards with bags and sand that residents can fill themselves. A shovel and someone to help lift the sandbags is recommended since they are heavy.

Some sites may require proof of residency. More information and site locations can be found at https://www.valleywater.org/flooding-safety/flood-ready/sandbags.

12:45 p.m
SF leaders give update on how city is preparing for storm

San Francisco leaders provided an update on how the city is preparing for the incoming atmospheric river. This comes after the city saw more than 5 inches of rainfall on New Year’s Eve causing widespread flooding making it the second wettest day in recorded history in San Francisco. Mayor London Breed says Wednesday’s storm will be significant. She is urging people to limit travel if possible. She warns of localized flooding. The mayor also says to use 911 for life-threatening emergencies, and 311 for reports of flooding in one’s home or business.

SF Department of Emergency and Management Mary Ellen Carroll says the National Weather Service has upgraded the wind gusts for Wednesday to 60 to 70 mph. There will be a Flood Watch from Wednesday at 4 am to Thursday at 4 pm This could mean power outages and falling trees.

Officials are also recommending people to stock up on batteries and flashlights.

12:30 p.m
SF warns sandbags are running low

SF Public Works says it is running low on sandbags. Residents asked to only get them if you really need them, limit of five per address.

“We have a limited supply of sandbags available for San Francisco residents whose properties are prone to flooding. Limit 5 per address. Pick up at our Operations Yard, Marin and Kansas streets gate. We’ll stay open until 8 pm Please only get sandbags if you really need them.”

Sandbags are available for residents and business owners. More details are available through “SF72” here.

8:30 am

Most of Bay Area under moderate risk of flooding

The National Weather Service has placed most of the Bay Area under a moderate risk of flooding tomorrow for excessive rainfall. ABC7 Meteorologist Drew Tuma says given our wet soil conditions produced by recent heavy rains, flooding is likely.

Jan 2, 2023

3 p.m
NWS says powerful storm could cause ‘loss of life’

The National Weather Service said Monday that this upcoming storm will likely be “the most impactful system on a widespread scale that this meteorologist has seen in a long time.”

NWS officials say not only will this storm bring flooding, power outages and “disruption to commerce,” it will also most likely cause loss of human life. They say this system will be brutal and needs to be taken seriously.

Watch the latest AccuWeather forecast and take a look at recent weather stories and videos.

If you’re on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live

Copyright © 2023 KGO-TV. All rights reserved.

The post San Francisco Bay Space Degree 5 storm dwell updates: A number of cities declare native, state emergencies as atmospheric river arrives appeared first on DAILY SAN FRANCISCO BAY NEWS.

Find an updated count of COVID-19 cases in California and by county on our tracker here.

Latest Updates

San Francisco state Senator wants to declare monkeypox a public health crisis

COVID-19 pandemic has set back global efforts to end HIV/AIDS

Studies bolster theory that COVID-19 originated in live animal market in Wuhan, China

U.S. signs off on buying 800,000 more monkeypox vaccines

President Biden comes out of isolation and tells everyone to get vaccinated

COVID-19 By The Numbers

Thursday, July 28

12:09 a.m.: San Francisco state Senator wants to declare monkeypox a public health crisis

San Francisco state Senator Scott Wiener is calling to declare monkeypox a public health crisis to enact a state of emergency.

Wiener says the state of emergency declaration will give California flexibility around testing, contracting for services and administering vaccines. He blamed the federal government for the slow response in acquiring vaccines to prevent an outbreak.

Wiener also said that given that gay and bisexual men and trans people are the most impacted, it’s “clear we are being left behind once again.”

There are more than 600 confirmed monkeypox cases in California, with San Francisco and Los Angeles County accounting for more than two-thirds. At the time of this reporting, Sacramento has reported 29 cases.

Last week, Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon announced he has sent a letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra asking the former California Congressman and state Attorney General to declare a national state of emergency.

11:42 a.m.: COVID-19 pandemic has set back global efforts to end HIV/AIDS

Hard-won progress against HIV has stalled, putting millions of lives at risk — that’s according to an alarming report Wednesday on how the collision with the COVID-19 pandemic and other global crises set back efforts to end AIDS.

According to the Associated Press, declines in new infections are leveling off, but cases are rising in some spots.

COVID-19 disrupted HIV care and widened inequalities, leaving vulnerable people at more risk.

Experts are calling for fast efforts to start getting back on track. The report from UNAIDS was released at the International AIDS Conference in Montreal.

Wednesday, July 27

12:39 a.m.: Studies bolster theory that COVID-19 originated in live animal market in Wuhan, China

Two new studies provide more evidence that the coronavirus pandemic originated in a Wuhan, China market where live animals were sold.

According to the Associated Press, this further bolsters the theory that the virus emerged from the wild rather than escaping a Chinese lab.

The research was published online Tuesday by the journal Science.

It shows that the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market was likely the early epicenter of the scourge that has now killed nearly 6.4 million people around the world.

Scientists also concluded that the virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, likely spilled from animals into people two separate times.

11:26 a.m.: U.S. signs off on buying 800,000 more monkeypox vaccines

Health regulators say nearly 800,000 doses of monkeypox vaccine will soon be available for U.S. distribution.

The Wednesday announcement follows weeks of delays and growing criticism that authorities have been too slow in deploying these shots, according to the Associated Press.

The Food and Drug Administration needed to inspect and certify the standards of a Danish manufacturing plant where the doses are manufactured. The agency said two weeks ago that the inspection had been completed, but the final go-ahead came Wednesday.

U.S. health officials say they will announce allocation plans on Thursday.

Health departments in San Francisco and other major cities say they still don’t have enough shots to meet demand.

10:44 a.m.: President Biden comes out of isolation and tells everyone to get vaccinated

President Joe Biden has emerged from five days of isolation after contracting the coronavirus, telling Americans that “COVID isn’t gone” but saying serious illness can be avoided with vaccines, booster shots and treatments.

As reported by the Associated Press, Biden spoke after testing negative for the virus Tuesday night and again Wednesday morning.

Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, says the president has completed his course of treatment with the drug Paxlovid and remains free of fever.

O’Conner says that given those factors and the pair of negative tests, Biden will discontinue his “strict isolation” measures. The 79-year-old president tested positive last week and had mild symptoms.

Tuesday, July 26

11:40 a.m.: New COVID-19 boosters may be available in the fall

The Biden administration may scrap plans to let more younger adults get second COVID-19 boosters this summer.

Instead, officials are trying to speed up the availability of the next generation of boosters in the fall, NPR has learned.

The new strategy is aimed at trying to balance protecting people this summer with keeping people safe next winter when the country will probably get hit by yet another surge.

But the possible shift is being met with mixed reactions. The Food and Drug Administration could make a final decision by the end of the week.

11:11 a.m.: Families and caregivers brace themselves for another school year amid COVID-19

COVID-19 infections are again on the rise and filling families with dread as a new school year approaches.

The Associated Press says parents and caregivers fear the return of the pandemic scourge of outbreaks that sideline large numbers of teachers, close school buildings, and force students back into remote learning.

Some school systems around the country have moved to bolster staffing to minimize disruptions. However, many districts are hoping for the best without doing much else differently compared with last year.

Even some of the districts that had the most disruptions to in-person schooling amid the spread of the highly contagious omicron variant point to a few specific changes in their prevention efforts.

10:49 a.m.: Micronesia becomes last nation with population over 100,000 to undergo a COVID-19 outbreak

Micronesia’s first outbreak of COVID-19 has grown in one week to more than 1,000 cases and is causing alarm in the Pacific island nation.

According to the Associated Press, Micronesia likely became the final nation in the world with a population of more than 100,000 to experience an outbreak of the disease.

Micronesia had largely avoided the virus for two-and-a-half years thanks to its geographic isolation and border controls.

Health officials said cases were rapidly increasing. It’s reported that there’s been 140 new cases on Monday, bringing the total to 1,261, a figure which includes some border cases from before the outbreak.

Monday, July 25

11:05 a.m.: WHO declares monkeypox a global emergency

The chief of the World Health Organization says the expanding monkeypox outbreak in more than 70 countries is an “extraordinary” situation that qualifies as a global emergency.

The head of the U.N. health agency decided to issue the declaration Saturday after WHO’s expert committee didn’t reach a consensus.

Monkeypox has been established in parts of central and west Africa for decades. It wasn’t known to spark large outbreaks or spread widely among people until May.

As reported by the Associated Press, that’s when authorities detected epidemics in Europe, North America and more. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 16,000 cases of monkeypox have been reported in 74 countries.

10:56 a.m.: Biden still suffering from sore throat caused by COVID-19

President Joe Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Conner, says Biden continues to “improve significantly” despite a lingering sore throat, as reported by the Associated Press.

Biden tested positive for the virus on Thursday, and he’s been taking the antiviral drug Paxlovid. The White House COVID-19 coordinator, Dr. Ashisha Jha, says Biden is feeling “much, much better,” and “thank goodness our vaccines and therapeutics work well against it.”

Officials have emphasized that Biden’s symptoms are mild because he received four vaccine doses and had started taking Paxlovid.

O’conner said the president likely became infected with a highly contagious variant known as BA.5 that’s spreading throughout the country. Jha confirmed it on Sunday.

10:38 a.m.: North Korea relies on herbal medicines to fight COVID-19

North Korea has recently reported fewer than 200 daily fever cases amid its first domestic COVID-19 outbreak and says its traditional Koryo herbal medicines are playing a key role in curing patients.

According to the Associated Press, outside experts say North Korea’s emphasis on the role of Koryo medicines means it will likely claim that it’s overcoming the outbreak on its own without international help.

Observers say North Korea is mobilizing Koryo medicine because it lacks modern medicine to treat COVID-19 illnesses. They say traditional medicines could effectively treat fevers and minor symptoms, but not serious illnesses.

Friday, July 22

5:45 p.m.: Sacramento County to keep two Project Roomkey motels open for unhoused residents this summer

Sacramento County has extended its Project Roomkey program, a move that allows two motels that are sheltering 168 people experiencing homelessness to remain open this summer. 

The statewide program shelters older and medically vulnerable unhoused residents. It was established at the start of the pandemic to keep people protected from COVID-19. 

The Vagabond Inn in downtown Sacramento had been set to close on June 30 while the Comfort Inn in Rancho Cordova was to close August 31. 

Both will stay open as needed after county officials learned the federal government would pay for the program through September, Janna Haynes, a county spokesperson, said on Friday. 

But Haynes said the region’s lack of affordable housing and available shelter space will make it difficult to end the program, which the county has extended several times. 

Haynes said 168 people remain in the motels.

“We can service people forever, but unless we have somewhere that they can be housed, we cannot end their homelessness,” Haynes said. “And so that is our No. 1 challenge, not only with Project Roomkey, but with homelessness in general.” 

Each motel room costs nearly $4,000 per month. That includes rent, meals, security, laundry and medical expenses. 

The county initially opened four motels but has closed two as participants have slowly transitioned out of the program, either to housing, shelter or back to the streets. 

The statewide program has sheltered hundreds of people in the county and thousands across California since the start of the pandemic. It provides rooms used as shelter, as well as those designated as “isolation rooms” for unhoused residents who contract COVID-19.

11:07 a.m.: Here’s what we know about Biden’s COVID-19 infection

President Joe Biden is reporting a runny nose, fatigue and an occasional dry cough from his COVID-19 infection.

According to the Associated Press, Biden tested positive Thursday at the White House, and he’s been taking Paxlovid, an antiviral pill that’s been shown to reduce the chances of severe disease.

His infection was detected first with an antigen test, the same type that many Americans use at home. His infection was later confirmed with a PCR test.

Biden felt tired Wednesday evening and didn’t sleep well.

The president is fully vaccinated and twice boosted. The White House says the president will work in isolation until he tests negative.

10:57 a.m.: Oregon encourages a return to masking in 21 counties

Oregon health officials are urging people in 21 counties with high COVID-19 cases, including three Portland-area counties, to return to mask-wearing because the hospital system is again under extreme strain.

The Oregonian/OregonLive reports while COVID-19 hospitalizations are lower than in past surges, staff shortages, patients who delayed care and elevated COVID-19 infections have substantially reduced hospital systems’ capacity to care for patients.

Oregon Health Authority epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger suggests people reconsider summer plans to protect themselves and others during what he called “this extremely challenging time.”

He says Central Oregon hospitals have been particularly hard-hit but that no part of the state has been spared.

Thursday, July 21

12:02 p.m.: President Joe Biden tests positive for COVID-19

President Joe Biden says he’s “doing great” after testing positive for COVID-19. 

According to the Associated Press, the White House said the 79-year-old Biden is experiencing “very mild symptoms,” including a stuffy nose, fatigue and cough. 

He’s taking Paxlovid, an antiviral drug designed to reduce the severity of the disease. Biden is also fully vaccinated and has received two boosters.

When a fully vaccinated person experiences infection, the chance of severe illness or death is low. The White House says Biden is isolating at the White House but carrying out his duties via phone and Zoom.

He canceled a planned visit to Pennsylvania on Thursday and tweeted: “I’m doing great. Thanks for your concern.”

11:58 a.m.: WHO considers declaring monkeypox a global emergency

The World Health Organization has convened its emergency committee to consider for the second time within weeks whether the expanding outbreak of monkeypox should be declared a global crisis. 

According to the Associated Press, some scientists say the striking differences between the outbreaks in Africa and in other continents will complicate any coordinated response and possibly deepen existing inequities between the rich and poor.

While African officials say they are already treating the continent’s epidemic as an emergency, experts elsewhere say the mild version of monkeypox in Europe and North America makes an emergency declaration unnecessary.

Yet, while the U.S., Britain, Canada and other countries have bought millions of vaccines, none have gone to African nations.

10:29 a.m.: San Diego Comic-Con is back in full swing

The pop culture extravaganza that is Comic-Con International is back to its old extravagance. 

Stars, cosplayers and fans are filling the San Diego Convention Center in full force after the pandemic forced it to go virtual for two years, as reported by the Associated Press.

The pandemic necessitated virtual versions of the event in the summers of 2020 and 2021, including a scaled-back in-person version in November. However, those events were nothing compared to the huge spectacle that happened before COVID-19.

It’s not clear whether the convention will draw the estimated 135,000 people who flooded San Diego before the pandemic, but during yesterday’s preview night, fans came in droves, mobbing the floor. 

Far bigger crowds are expected tonight when the event begins in earnest.

Wednesday, July 20

5:10 p.m.: Top California lawmaker calls U.S. monkeypox response ‘maddeningly slow’ despite two years of COVID 

The number of confirmed monkeypox cases continues to grow in California and the country — and with it calls for the federal government to do more.  

It has been almost eight weeks since the first case of monkeypox was confirmed in California. Since, there have been more than 265 in the state, with more than 2,100 nationwide.  

On Wednesday, Democratic Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon said more could have been done to slow or prevent the spread.

“Despite two years of experience with COVID, our response to monkeypox has been maddeningly slow,” Rendon said.

The speaker, one of the most powerful lawmakers in the state, says he has sent a letter asking U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra to declare a public emergency for monkeypox. He says such a declaration would ramp up vaccination, testing, education and outreach.  

“We should always have a quick response. Had monkeypox primarily affected men identifying as heterosexual, we might have seen that rapid action,” Rendon said.

The LGBTQ-plus community has been hardest hit by the outbreak, and Rendon says opportunities were missed for treatment and messaging during Pride month celebrations in June. 

1:13 p.m.: Sacramento City Council meetings going back to in-person

The Sacramento City Council is headed back to City Hall chambers after holding virtual meetings all pandemic long.

The city has argued for months it should continue with virtual meetings while under a state of emergency. They said it’s an effort to keep the most vulnerable safe while physically distancing is still recommended.

But after two years of video meetings, the council is going back to the dais on Aug. 9.

The following week, residents will be able to attend meetings in person, but the chambers will only be half-full. People will also have to wear a mask and sit one seat apart from each other.

11:53 a.m.: Southern California man sentenced for pandemic PPP fraud

A Southern California man who tried to obtain $27 million in unemployment benefits by falsely claiming his business was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic has been sentenced to more than 11 years in federal prison.

The Associated Press reports that Robert Benlevi submitted 27 applications for forgivable loans under the Paycheck Protection Program.

Benlevi made applications to four banks on behalf of the eight companies he owned. He claimed that each company had 100 employees when in fact, they had none.

Authorities say Benlevi sought $27 million and obtained $3 million.

11:40 a.m.: FDA approves Novavax, a ‘traditional’ vaccine option for COVID-19

Health officials say U.S. adults who haven’t gotten any COVID-19 shots yet should consider a new option from Novavax.

According to the Associated Press, the protein-based shot is a more traditional kind of vaccine than the three mRNA brands available in the U.S.

Federal regulators authorized the two-dose vaccine last week for adults. Recently advisers for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention unanimously recommended the option on Tuesday and the agency agreed.

The company hopes to also clear booster doses and teen use fairly soon.

Tuesday, July 19

11:55 a.m.: Dr. Fauci plans to retire by 2025

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the government’s top infectious disease expert, says he plans to retire by the end of President Joe Biden’s term in January 2025, as reported by the Associated Press.

Fauci, 81, became director for the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in 1984 and has advised seven presidents.

Fauci said on CNN Monday that he doesn’t have a specific retirement date in mind and hasn’t started the process.

He was thrust into the national spotlight at the height of the coronavirus pandemic under then-President Donald Trump, who suggested the pandemic would “fade away,” promoted unproven treatment methods and vilified scientists who countered him.

11:24 a.m.: Scars of COVID persist for sickest survivors, their families

While more than 1 million people in the United States died of COVID-19, many more survived ICU stays that have left them with anxiety, PTSD, and a host of health issues, the Associated Press reports.

Research has shown that intensive therapy starting in the ICU can help, but it was often hard to provide as hospitals teemed with patients.

Families find themselves in a tough place as the world moves on and mask mandates disappear. The COVID-19 pandemic is not gone for them and it may never be. Those that survived are left dealing with long-term consequences.

Monday, July 18

11:32 a.m.: Ballot boxes used during COVID-19 pandemic for 2020 election are safe, survey says

An Associated Press survey of state election officials across the U.S. found that the expanded use of drop boxes for mailed allots during the 2020 election didn’t lead to any widespread problems.

The survey revealed no cases of fraud, vandalism, or theft that could have affected the results — contrary to false claims made by former President Donald Trump and his allies, who have intensely criticized their use and falsely claimed they opened the door to fraud.

Drop boxes are considered by election officials to be safe and secure. They became a mainstay in states with extensive mail voting for years and had not previously rained any alarms.

They were used widely in 2020 as election officials sought to provide alternative ways to cast ballots with the COVID-19 outbreak, creating concerns about in-person voting and U.S. Postal Service delays.

Despite mail-in ballot boxes being nearly universally agreed to be a safe voting method, conspiracy theories and efforts by some Republicans to eliminate or restrict them persist.

11 a.m.: The UK to offer a fourth booster dose to residents 50 and older

Everyone in Britain who is 50 or older will be offered a fourth dose of the coronavirus vaccine in the fall, lowering the age threshold from the previously announced 65.

According to the Associated Press, the U.K.’s Department of Health said it had accepted advice from the Union’s independent vaccines adviser about the autumn booster program.

Fourth doses will also be given to health care workers, nursing home staff and residents, and everyone 5 and older with health conditions that make them more vulnerable to severe illness from COVID-19.

Outgoing Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the booster campaign would “keep our defenses strong over autumn and winter.”

The U.K. has one of Europe’s highest official death tolls in the pandemic, with almost 178,000 confirmed deaths.

Friday, July 15

11:41 a.m.: 25 million kids worldwide missed their immunizations due to misinformation surrounding COVID-19

About 25 million children worldwide have missed out on routine immunizations against diseases like diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, largely because the coronavirus pandemic disrupted regular health services or triggered misinformation about vaccines.

According to the Associated Press, a new report published Friday by the World Health Organization and UNICEF said their figures show that 25 million children last year failed to get vaccinated against those three diseases, a marker for childhood immunization coverage.

That continues a downward trend in childhood immunizations that began in 2019.

UNICEF called it “a red alert” for child health, warning that the lack of vaccinations and the current rise in global malnutrition would result in many lives lost.

11:35 a.m.: Canada approves Moderna vaccine for preschoolers

Canadian regulators have authorized Moderna’s COVID-19 shots for infants and preschoolers, according to the Associated Press.

Health Canada said the Moderna vaccine can be given to children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years in doses one-quarter the size of that approved for adults.

U.S. regulators authorized the first COVID-19 shots from Moderna and Pfizer for infants and preschoolers last month.

Pfizer’s pediatric COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 6 months to 5 years was submitted to Health Canada last month and is still under review.

Thursday, July 14

3:38 p.m.: Los Angeles County may soon require masks

The nation’s most populous county is facing a return to a broad indoor mask mandate as new omicron variants are again driving hospital admissions and deaths higher. 

Health officials say Los Angeles County, home to 10 million residents, could reinstate the mandate on July 29, the Associated Press reports. In recent weeks, states and cities began to rethink their responses to COVID-19. And the White House is stepping up efforts to alert the public. 

Some experts say the warnings are too little, too late. The highly transmissible variants have shown a remarkable ability to get around the protection offered by vaccination.

The highly transmissible variants have shown a remarkable ability to get around the protection offered by infection and vaccination — especially as protection from vaccinations are warning for Americans overdue for booster shots. 

Less than half of all eligible U.S. adults have gotten a single booster shot, and only about 1 in 4 Americans age 50 and older who are eligible for a second booster have received one. 

1:23 p.m.: You can reduce the time you wait between COVID-19 infection and a booster shot, Yolo County health officer says

With new, highly contagious variants like BA.5 and the even newer BA.2.75, COVID-19 cases are increasing. Hospitalizations in California are rising, but deaths remain low thanks to vaccines, treatments and therapeutics.

Dr. Aimee Sisson, the public health officer for Yolo County, said she’s now encouraging people not to wait as long after an infection to get up to date on their vaccination or booster shots if they need to.

“I used to encourage people to wait about 90 days after an infection before getting boosted because the infection itself can serve as a booster dose,” Sisson said. “But I think, you know, now with the variants that we have that are escaping immunity, any additional boost that you can get from a vaccine in addition to the booster that you get from infection is important.”

Sisson said you still need to wait at least 10 days after infection and not show symptoms such as a fever before getting a vaccine or booster shot.

11:04 a.m.: Food banks are seeing long lines again

Long lines are back at food banks around the U.S. as working Americans overwhelmed by inflation increasingly seek out charity to feed their families.

As reported by the Associated Press, food banks struggle to help even as federal programs provide less food, grocery store donations wane and cash gits don’t go nearly as far while U.S. inflation hits a 40-year high. 

Charitable food distribution has remained far above amounts given away before the coronavirus pandemic, even though demand tapered off somewhat late last year.

Wednesday, July 13

11 a.m.: Officials look to expand monkeypox vaccine access as outbreak continues

While COVID-19 continues to spread, another virus outbreak is on the rise in California: Monkeypox.

There are over 140 possible and confirmed cases of the virus in the state California as of this week. At least 10 possible cases have been reported in Sacramento County, according to KCRA.

The Biden administration announced last week that almost 300,000 doses of the vaccine would become available nationwide throughout the country in the upcoming weeks to address an ongoing vaccine shortage.

Currently, the vaccine is only available now for those who have had suspected or confirmed exposure to monkeypox.

In Sacramento County, it’s also being offered to men who have sex with other men and trans people if they fit specific criteria. County health officials said those interested in getting the vaccine should check with their healthcare provider or contact the Sacramento County Public Health Immunization Assistance Program at (916) 875-7468 to schedule an appointment.

Tuesday, July 12

11:34 a.m.: White House urges caution on latest COVID-19 variants and is pushing for more booster shots

The Biden Administration is calling on people to exercise renewed caution about COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of getting booster shots for those who are eligible and wearing masks indoors.

According to the Associated Press, the warning comes as two new highly transmissible variants are spreading rapidly across the country.

The new variants, labeled BA.4 and BA.5, are offshoots of the omicron strain that has been responsible for nearly all of the virus spread in the U.S. and are even more contagious than their predecessors.

White House doctors pressed the importance of getting booster doses and said people shouldn’t wait until the fall when vaccines targeted at the variants in addition to the original strains.

11:06 a.m.: European Union urges another booster for people ages 60 to 79

The European Union says it’s “critical” that authorities in the 27-nation bloc consider giving second coronavirus booster shots to people between the ages of 60 to 79 years and other vulnerable people.

As reported by the Associated Press, a new wave of the pandemic is sweeping across Europe.

European Commissioner Stella Kyriakides said in a statement that with cases rising in many nations, “there is no time to lose.”

The European Center for Disease Prevention and Control and European Medicines Agency said that the second booster can be given at least four months after the first booster.

The recent advice comes after the agencies in April recommended that people over 80 years of age be considered for a second booster.

10:48 a.m.: London’s Heathrow will limit daily passengers amid travel boom

London’s Heathrow Airport is capping daily passenger numbers for the summer and telling airlines to stop selling tickets as it steps up efforts to quell travel chaos caused by soaring travel demand and staff shortages.

According to the Associated Press, Britain’s busiest airport said that it’s setting a limit of 100,000 passengers that it can handle each day through Sept. 11.

The restriction is likely to result in more canceled flights even after airlines have already slashed thousands of flights from their summer schedules.

Booming demand for summer travel after two years of COVID-19 travel restrictions have overwhelmed European airlines and airports that had laid off tens of thousands of staff amid the depths of the pandemic.

Monday, July 11

11:02 a.m.: New coronavirus mutation is causing concerns among scientists

The quickly changing coronavirus has spawned yet another super contagious omicron mutant that’s worrying scientists as it gains ground in India and pops up in numerous other countries, including the U.S.

Scientists say the variant, which is called BA.2.75, may be able to spread rapidly and get around immunity from vaccines and previous infection, according to the Associated Press.

It’s still unclear whether it could cause more serious disease than the globally dominate omicron variant BA.5.

Scientists are concerned about the fact that this new variant is geographically widespread — it’s already been detected in India as well as about 10 other nations.

10:32 a.m.: Weddings derailed by pandemic got to celebrate their union at a ‘re-wedding’ event in New York

Hundreds of couples whose weddings were derailed or scaled back due to the COVD-19 pandemic got a do-over thanks to a New York City landmark.

According to the Associated Press, the Lincoln Center for Performing Arts in New York City hosted “Celebrate Love: A (Re)Wedding” on Sunday in the pavilion outside the center.

Lincoln Center’s website called it “a special day for newlyweds, those whose weddings were canceled or diminished and people who want to recommit their love to their partners and the city we love.”

The event featured a multicultural ceremony, music, dancing and more. The website notes that the ceremony is not legally binding.

10:05 a.m.: Baby formula production once again resumes at the troubled Abbott Nutrition factory

Abbott Nutrition says baby formula production has resumed at the Michigan plant, whose February shutdown over contamination contributed to a national shortage.

As reported by the Associated Press, damage from severe thunderstorms had halted the Sturgis plant operations in mid-June after just two weeks of renewed production. Abbott says EleCare, a specialty formula, is being made at Sturgis following a July 1 reboot and that Similac production will resume as soon as possible.

Abbott is just one of four companies that produce 90% of U.S. baby formula.

Its recall in February of several leading rands squeezed supplies already strained by supply chain disruptions and stockpiling during COVID-19 shutdowns.

Friday, July 8

10:38 a.m.: Biden awards Medal of Freedom to first nurse in the US to receive coronavirus vaccine

President Joe Biden has presented the nation’s highest civilian honor to 17 people, including gymnast Simone Biles and the late Arizona Republican Sen. Jon McCain.

The president who took office during the coronavirus pandemic also honored Sandra Lindsay, the New York nurse who received the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine that was administered in the U.S. outside of clinical trials.

Others receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom include gun safety advocate Gabrielle Giffords, U.S. women’s national soccer team player Megan Rapinoe and late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs.

10:30 a.m.: Uruguay pauses vaccinations for children under 13

Uruguay has stopped administering coronavirus vaccines to children under age 13, the Associated Press reports.

The halt began after a judge ordered on Thursday that all inoculations in that age group halt until officials present documents relating to contracts signed with vaccine manufacturers.

The government says it’ll apparel the ruling, characterizing the stoppage as a threat to public health.

Vaccination for children under 13 in Uruguay has been on a voluntary basis. The Health Ministry says vaccinations for those older than 13 will continue.

10:16 a.m.: Beijing residents push back against vaccine mandate

Beijing, China’s capital, appears to be backing off a vaccine mandate it announced just two days ago.

According to the Associated Press, the mandate would require vaccinations for entry into certain public spaces, including gyms, museums and libraries, starting next week. It drew intense discussion as city residents worried how the sudden policy announcement would disrupt their lives.

While not explicitly saying the government had dropped the plan, a city official was quoted in state media late Thursday saying that people could enter venues with a negative virus test result and a temperature check, as has been the norm.

They also said vaccinations would continue on the principle of informed, voluntary consent.

Thursday, July 7

10:41 a.m.: Pharmacists can now prescribe COVID-19 pill to patients

U.S. pharmacists can now prescribe the leading COVID-19 pill directly to consumers, according to the Associated Press.

The Food and Drug Administration said Wednesday that pharmacists can begin screening patients to see if they are eligible and then prescribe Pfizer’s drug Paxlovid.

Previously only doctors could prescribe it. Paxlovid has been shown to curb the worst effects of COVID-19, but it has to be started within five days of symptoms.

Paxlovid is intended for people with COVID-19 who are more likely to become seriously ill, including older people and those with health conditions.

10:19 a.m.: The Sacramento Food Bank’s two Oak Park locations are closing

The Sacramento Food Bank is closing its two Oak Park facilities to consolidate services at its North Sacramento Location.

The closures came with little warning to the community it’s served for 50 years. Residents were outraged on social media and were left confused by the decision.

The organization’s Family Services building had adult education, clothing programs and provided legal assistance for immigrants.

In response, the food bank’s president and CEO, Blake Young, answered a few questions about the closure at a recent public meeting.

“We’re lucky in that we can provide some of those other family services,” they said. “But with the pandemic, with inflation, with where we saw the demand for food resources in our own county going, we needed to focus on that.”

He said a number of services offered at Oak Park locations had been suspended because of the pandemic. Since then, the food bank has leaned on other community organizations to help.

9:52 a.m.: Canada is throwing out 13.6 AstraZeneca vaccine doses

Canada is going to throw out about 13.6 million doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines because it couldn’t find any takers for it either at home or abroad.

According to the Associated Press, Canada signed a contract with AstraZeneca in 2020 to get 20 million doses, and 2.3 million Canadians received at least one dose of it, mostly between March and June 2021.

Following concerns in the spring of 2021 about rare but potentially fatal blood clots from AstraZeneca, Canada instead focused on using its ample supplies of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.

In July 2021, the country promised to donate the rest of its procured supply, about 17.7 million doses, but in a statement on Tuesday, Health Canada said that despite efforts to meet the pledge, 13.6 million doses have expired and will need to be thrown out.

Wednesday, July 6

10:56 a.m.: COVID-19 vaccine requirement dropped for Nevada university employees

The Nevada Board of Regents will no longer require staff at the state’s public universities and colleges to be vaccinated for COVID-19.

According to the Associated Press, a majority of the regents for the Nevada System of Higher Education voted Thursday to rescind an employee vaccine mandate after it was first approved last year.

Regents met on the issue in December but could not come to a majority vote.

Hundreds of employees statewide ended up quitting or losing their job because they would not get vaccinated. It was not immediately clear if those employees would be offered their jobs back.

According to the regents, roughly 97% of 22,000 current system employees have gotten vaccinated.

10:40 a.m.: CDC urges counties in high-risk areas to start masking again. Sacramento County is on this list.

People in 24 Oregon counties, 15 counties in Washington and over 30 counties in California should resume mask-wearing indoors in public and on public transportation, according to recommendations from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Data from the CDC shows that those aforementioned counties are considered at high risk for COVID-19 infection as of June 30, the Associated Press reports.

California counties labeled as high risk include: Sacramento, Yolo, Placer, El Dorado and the rest of the surrounding area.

High risk means the counties have had 200 or more new COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people in the last seven days or more than 20 new COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000 within a seven-day period.

Emerging research suggests reinfections could put people at higher risk for health problems.

Unvaccinated people have a six times higher risk of dying from COVID-19 compared with people with at least a primary series of shots, the CDC estimated based on available data from April.

10:36 a.m.: Shanghai and Beijing are forced to undergo more COVID-19 testing

Residents in parts of Shanghai and Beijing have been ordered to undergo further rounds of COVID-19 testing following the discovery of new cases in the two cities.

According to the Associated Press, restaurants have also been restricted to takeout only in the northern city of Xi’an, which endured one of China’s most sweeping lockdowns under the hardline zero-COVID policy.

The gambling hub of Macao has also shut down one of its most famous hotel casinos after cases were discovered there.

The strict measures have been retained despite relatively low numbers of cases, with mainland China reporting 353 cases of domestic transmission on Wednesday, 241 of them asymptomatic.

Tuesday, July 5

12:17 p.m.: US warily treads forward through another pandemic summer

The fast-changing coronavirus has kicked off summer in the U.S. with lots of infections but relatively few deaths compared to its prior incarnations.

Keep in mind that COVID-19 is still killing hundreds of Americans each day even though many people feel it’s not as dangerous as it once was.

It’s easy to feel confused by the mixed picture — repeat infections are increasingly likely and a sizeable share of those infected will face the lingering symptoms of long COVID-19.

According to the Associated Press, how long this interlude will last is impossible to know since more dangerous variants could be around the corner.

10:03 a.m.: About half of US adults would continue using virtual services

A new poll shows that about half of Americans would think it’s a “good thing” if virtual options continue, as reported by the Associated Press.

Digital services like exercise classes, telehealth and so forth are all examples of services that moved remotely during the pandemic.

However, a poll from the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that close to half of U.S. adults say they won’t return to virtual activities like having groceries delivered or use curbside pickup once the pandemic ends.

9:56 a.m.: Monkeypox cases triple, worrying health officials

The World Health organization’s European chief has warned that monkeypox cases across the region have tripled in the last two weeks and called on countries to take stronger measures to ensure the previously rare disease does not become entrenched in the continent.

According to the Associated Press, in a statement on Friday, Dr. Hans Kluge said increased efforts were needed despite the U.N. health agency’s decision not to declare the escalating outbreak a global health emergency last week.

To date, more than 5,000 monkeypox cases have been reported from 51 countries worldwide, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and prevention.

Kluge said the number of infections in Europe represents about 90% of the global total.

Friday, July 1

9:32 a.m.: Two people accused of $5 million in fraud from CARES Act loans

Two men have been indicted by a federal grand jury in New Hampshire on multiple fraud charges alleging that they falsely applied for $5 million in federal CARES Act loans for companies and misused some of the proceeds, including one man’s purchase of a Rolls Royce.

According to the Associated Press, court documents say both men were based in New Hampshire, but one later moved to Irvine, Calif.

Prosecutors allege that the two applied for over two dozen loans in 2020 and in 2021, submitting fabricated tax documents.

The California man was arrested in Hawaii on Thursday.

It wasn’t immediately known if he had an attorney. The New Hampshire man was arrested, released and faces a hearing.

9:16 a.m.: When can you stop isolating after a COVID-19 infection? Here’s what you need to know

With inections on the rise in some places, some Americans are wondering — when can you stop isolating after a COVID-19 infection?

It can feel extra stressful and confusing if you’re feeling good but still testing positive on a rapid test.

NPR reports that even with the new subvariants, the basic rules haven’t changed since omicron first developed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says someone can stop isolating after five days if they’re fever-free for 24 hours and are starting to get better.

Just keep wearing your mask for another five days.

Some researchers don’t agree and point out that some people are still infectious after day five. But if you’re feeling alright and are tired of waiting, here’s what you need to know.

8:32 a.m.: Summer travel numbers are all over the place due to pandemic recovery

Summer travel is underway across the globe, but a full recovery from two years of coronavirus could last as long as the pandemic itself.

Interviews by the Associated Press in 11 countries in June show that most passionate travelers are thronging to locales like the French Riviera, Amsterdam and the American Midwest.

But even as safety restrictions fall, places like Israel, India and Rome are reporting only fractions of the record-setting tourism of 2019.

For them, a full recovery isn’t forecasted until at least 2024. China, once the world’s biggest source of tourists, remains closed per its “zero-COVID” policy, which is holding down the rebound in many countries.

Find older coronavirus updates on our previous blog page here

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