No floods occurred in California after
the big flood of 1955-56, until February of 1958. On 24 February
1958 lashing rains and gale force winds dealt the Northern area
of California a two-fisted pummelling that filled to capacity
the various rivers and streams. Evacuation was a probability
in many areas as the rising waters and strong winds threatened
already seriously weakened levees. The Concord, Oroville and
Red Bluff armories were opened to house evacuees and the Guard
stood by for action. On 25 February 1958 the storm had spent
itself and the second storm forecasted missed the coast of California.
However, in many areas the Guard assisted the civilian authorities
in alleviating the storm damages.
During late March the rains came again and by 1 April 1958 the
situation was critical. Throughout Northern California approximately
450 California National Guardsmen were on duty from 1 April through
9 April 1958. The critical areas were Stockton, Carmel Valley,
Visalia, Santa Clara County and the Concord-Brentwood area. The
equipment utilized to assist the civilian authorities included
amphibious and cargo trucks, wreckers, ambulances, light aircraft,
helicopters, radios, kitchen equipment, etc. The situation became
so critical in the Carmel Valley area due to lack of local help
that the Governor directed the troops to deviate from established
policy and serve as laborers to sandbag the river's levees at
the most critical points. In all other areas the personnel were
utilized in evacuation, transport, sentry duty and other military
duties.
Source: 1956-1958 Biennial
Report of the Adjutant General of the State of California
