2025-12-26T16:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...A portion of central California, including the following areas, Bakersfield, Buena Vista, Buttonwillow - Lost Hills - I5, Caruthers - San Joaquin - Selma, Coalinga - Avenal, Delano-Wasco-Shafter, Frazier Mountain Communities, Fresno-Clovis, Fresno-Tulare Foothills, Fresno-Tulare Lower Sierra, Grant Grove Area, Grapevine, Hanford - Corcoran - Lemoore, Indian Wells Valley, Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge, Kern River Valley, Kings Canyon NP, Los Banos - Dos Palos, Mariposa Madera Foothills, Merced - Madera - Mendota, Mojave Desert, Mojave Desert Slopes, Piute Walker Basin, Planada - Le Grand - Snelling, Sequoia NP, South End San Joaquin Valley, South End Sierra Foothills, South End of the Lower Sierra, South End of the Upper Sierra, Southeast San Joaquin Valley, Tehachapi, Visalia - Porterville - Reedley, West Side Mountains South of 198, West Side Mountains north of 198 and West Side of Fresno and Kings Counties. * WHEN...Through Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Low-water crossings may be flooded. Storm drains and ditches may become clogged with debris. Extensive street flooding and flooding of creeks and rivers are possible. Area creeks and streams are running high and could flood with more heavy rain. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Summary
With an elevation of 12,123 feet (3,695 meters), it stands as a challenging but rewarding destination for mountaineers. The mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada and White Mountains.
During the winter season, Olancha Peak receives a significant amount of snowfall, transforming it into a winter wonderland for snow enthusiasts. The snowpack range varies each year but can exceed several feet, providing opportunities for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing adventures. As the snow melts during the spring and summer months, it feeds into several creeks and rivers in the area, contributing to the region's water resources.
The name "Olancha" holds an interesting history. It is derived from the local Native American tribe, the Owens Valley Paiute, who referred to the mountain as "oo-yan-cha." The name roughly translates to "snowy" or "mountain with snow." The mountain has also been associated with legends and lore. Some stories speak of a hidden treasure buried beneath its slopes, adding an air of mystery to Olancha Peak's allure.
In conclusion, Olancha Peak is a captivating mountain in the Pacific Ranges mountain range, offering challenging mountaineering opportunities with its impressive elevation and size. Its winter snowpack range attracts snow enthusiasts, while its runoff contributes to the local water resources. The mountain's name and associated legends add an intriguing touch to its natural beauty. (200 words)