Stormy Weather Lifts Spirits in Central Valley

In Madera chunks of hail dropped down from the sky.

In Fresno rain fell so fast it gushed from runoff pipes, flooding streets and pooling up in parking lots. It’s been weeks and for some months since they’ve experienced rain.

"I looked and thought oh my gosh it’s raining and went out onto my balcony and tried to catch some just to remind myself what it’s like," said Fresno resident Tom Johnson.

A wet commute wasn’t slowing down drivers, splashing and trudging their way through the streets of fresno people were inspired by the weather.

"It’s definitely exciting. We’ve been in a drought for so long. We definitely need the rain and it’s been very few and far between rainstorms this year," said Fresno Resident Marshall Moushigian.

Eventually the dark skies gave way to sunshine. The rainstorm brought Sally McCoy and her grandkids some excitement and a special moment.

"The kids and I came out and played in the rain earlier and now to come out and see the rainbow that’s really exciting," said McCoy in front of her Fresno home.

In this drought stricken region a rainstorm is rare and seeing a rainbow is something strange.

"Last time I saw one was a long time ago and it doesn’t happen that often because it hasn’t rained in a long time," said McCoy’s grandson Elan Gray.

As the rain moved across the central valley and into the foothills– people in fresno are sad to see it go, but are pleased with what the storm left behind.

"It makes me happy today. Really happy. It is too bad it can’t happen more often though. We really need the rain so bad. Our lawns are getting dryer and at least today they’ll all get a little drink and today and the trees will be happy," said McCoy.

Statewide water restrictions are in effect. By law California residents can not water their yards for 48 hours after measurable rainfall.