Historic Shipwreck on the Lost Coast

In September of 1867 the USS Shubrick, a steamer that served as a lighthouse tender, was in route to Cape Mendocino Lighthouse to deliver supplies. In heavy fog the ship wrecked and the captain ran her aground at Big Flat. For months on end the crew laboriously repaired the ship on shore. Subtle signs of this endeavor can still be seen at Big Flat. Also, notice the peak above the flat is named after the vessel (and the crew) that it watched over for nearly a year, a century and a half ago.

                                          Photo from NPS. Courtesy of USCG Historian's office

Original article published in the New York Times (thank you) describes the events in more detail. 

Wet and Cold Pattern to Continue For the Remainder of December

Above is the 5 day total precipitation forecast for December 17-22.

Friday December 21 - Wednesday December 26

A series of weather systems will move across northern California during this six day period bring periods of rain and snow in the higher elevations.  The heaviest precipitation is expected Saturday night through the day Sunday. The outlook is calling for the potential of 1 to 2 inches of rain during this period. Thus there is a potential for the mountain passes to be impacted by snow.  

Snow level will  be near 4,000 feet on Friday and Saturday and lower to near 3,500 feet on Sunday and remain near 3,500 feet through Wednesday.

Potential impacts with mid to late-December precipitation events.

Due to the saturated soil, all the main stem rivers will have rapid rises.

The tributary creeks and small rivers will also have significant rises and flows.

Rock and mudslides along highways and county roads in mountainous terrain.

Power outages are possible due to strong winds and blown down tree branches.  

Potential for hazardous driving conditions due to snow accumulation on mountain passes and higher elevation roadways with the colder systems. 

Check my previous post, Winter Conditions: Prepare for the worst, Hope for the best, for links to weather forecasts. 

Your Wilderness Ranger, 

Paul Sever

Road Closures for Winter Months

The following roads are closed for winter to maintain their integrity:

• Smith-Etter Road. This accesses North Slide Peak, Kinsey Ridge, and Spanish Ridge Trailheads. 

• Windy Point Road (off of Prosper Ridge Road near Mattole Campground). 

• Usal Road (Sinkyone Wilderness State Park)

Use caution on all other roads around the King Range. 

Your Wilderness Ranger,

Paul Sever