While the latest winter storm to hit Turlock left the city with a number of toppled trees and several power outages Friday, the precipitation forecast for early next week could have more serious implications as it has the potential to push Don Pedro Reservoir past its maximum storage level and force Turlock Irrigation District to operate its controlled spillway. According to TID, the current combined forecast for Monday and Tuesday calls for nearly 5 inches of precipitation in the Tuolumne River Watershed above Don Pedro Reservoir. If this forecasted amount develops into actual inflow to the reservoir it will put it above its maximum physical storage level of 830 feet, leaving TID with no choice but to operate its controlled spillway in compliance with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Flood Control Manual.
Don Pedro Reservoir nears max capacity with more rain on the way
Powerful winter storm topples trees, causes power outages throughout Turlock

