Santa Barbara County is bracing for another wave of heavy rain and strong winds, set to arrive starting this Wednesday night, which poses significant risks of flooding, coastal erosion, and potential power outages just ahead of the New Year’s celebrations.
The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the South Coast and Santa Ynez Mountains, effective from 10 p.m. on December 31 until 10 p.m. on January 1, accompanied by a wind advisory in place from 4 p.m. today through 3 p.m. on Monday, with gusts predicted to reach up to 25 mph. “This means flooding is possible in the area,” cautioned Santa Barbara County’s Office of Emergency Services. Residents are advised to stay clear of rivers, creeks, streams, and areas prone to flooding.
Tonight’s storm is projected to deliver between one to two inches of rain, with thunderstorms possibly rolling in after 10 p.m. As reported on Wednesday morning, there is a 100 percent chance of precipitation, with forecasts indicating that rain may continue into the following weekend. High surf and treacherous rip currents are also expected along the coast through Sunday, January 4, drawing attention to hazardous beach conditions.
This incoming storm comes on the heels of a previous week of sporadic rain that has saturated the ground, filled local creeks, and tested storm drainage systems across the area. On Christmas Eve, Santa Barbara experienced between three to seven inches of rain, leading to flash flood warnings, road closures, and debris washouts along beaches. The Santa Barbara Airport was briefly closed due to flooding on the airfield but resumed operations on Christmas morning.
The heavy rainfall has also impacted Lake Cachuma, which has reached near capacity for the first time in December since the 1980s, prompting officials to undertake water releases into the Santa Ynez River to mitigate overflow risks. Just a few days ago, the reservoir was reported at 98 percent capacity, prompting ongoing monitoring to balance water preservation and flood risk mitigation.
Additionally, the coastline has seen disruptions, including a boat washed ashore at East Beach amid rough surf conditions. A sewage spill has rendered part of East Beach off-limits to the public, with warnings issued to avoid contact with the contaminated water. Health officials are urging caution, as swimming in the ocean or local waterways during and after storms can elevate the risk of illnesses due to storm runoff.
While the previous storms passed with minimal damage, the leftover moisture in the soil raises concerns about potential risks from ensuing weather conditions. Public safety officials note that storm drains may be slower to clear, and hillside soils are particularly vulnerable to instability. However, predictions indicate that the current storm system may not be as intense as that of last week.
Moreover, a landslide advisory is currently active for La Conchita, a coastal community along Highway 101, which has a history of instability. Following recent rain, authorities have renewed warnings for this area, recalling the catastrophic landslide in 2005 that claimed ten lives and demolished multiple homes.
As the situation develops, the risks extend beyond land to the beach and ocean, as rising creek flows can carry debris into waterways. Coastal flooding and bluff erosion are anticipated throughout the county, particularly in Isla Vista and near the East Beach area. Residents are advised to avoid travel during heavy rainfall, especially around previously impacted nearby roads, and are encouraged to stay updated on the latest storm information through local resources.
For real-time storm updates and emergency information, residents can visit ReadySBC.org and subscribe to local alerts. This proactive approach can help ensure safety as the region navigates through the turbulent weather ahead.