Overview
- The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning around 1:45 p.m. PDT for Salinas, citing possible 1-inch hail and 60 mph gusts and urging people to shelter.
- Two funnel clouds were observed less than 30 minutes apart—one over East Salinas and another north of Hollister—with an ALERT California/Cal Fire camera capturing the Salinas feature.
- After reviewing reports and video, forecasters said neither funnel touched the ground, so no tornado was confirmed.
- Heavy rain and pea-size to larger hail triggered rapid street flooding, and Salinas Fire crews pumped water from several businesses.
- Such funnel clouds and hail are uncommon on the Central Coast, and officials advised caution as stronger storms remain possible heading into wetter months.