Storm brings Yosemite waterfalls back to life

Upper Yosemite Falls was flowing at full force Wednesday after a storm swept through the region. Most of the park’s waterfalls were flowing after being dry for several months. Upper Yosemite Falls was flowing at full force Wednesday after a storm swept through the region. Most of the park’s waterfalls were flowing after being dry for several months. Photo: Courtesy / National Park Service Photo: Courtesy / National Park Service Image 1 of / 9 Caption Close Storm brings Yosemite waterfalls back to life 1 / 9 Back to Gallery

While the deluge of rain brought freeways and public transit systems to a halt Wednesday morning and frustrated scores of Bay Area commuters, the storm system gave new life to Yosemite National Park waterfalls that had been choked dry by the prolonged drought.

Yosemite, Cascade and Bridalveil falls were all flowing strongly after the latest round of wet weather, park officials said.

“To see Yosemite Falls coming to life this morning is truly exhilarating,” said Don Neubacher, Yosemite National Park superintendent. “This is a wonderful time to visit Yosemite National Park and the waterfalls just add to the magnificence.”

Despite the winter storms, park officials said snow levels were high and all roads leading into the Yosemite Valley — Highways 140, 120 and 41 — were open and clear.