The National Weather Service has issued a forecast which predicts widespread rain and thunderstorms for much of Santa Barbara County. The first of two storms headed for this area arrived this morning. The bulk of the impact of this storm will occur between tonight (Wednesday) and Thursday night. A second storm is expected peak Friday evening through Saturday evening. This rain is expected to be heavy at times, with a rainfall total expected to be up to (and possibly exceeding) 3 inches. High winds are also expected during this period, with potentially damaging gusts. While the intensity of these storms is much less than last week's storm, the impacts could be more severe as the ground is now saturated which will increase runoff of new rain. Further, the reservoirs upstream of the City are full, and so any additional rain and runoff upstream will be released into the Santa Ynez River, which could see very high flow levels. Please avoid the areas around the river.
Additional storm systems are expected next week from Sunday thorugh Thursday. The predicted timing and intensity of these storms is not yet available.
Downed trees and power outages are possible. Cars should be parked away from tall trees.
A Flood Watch is in effect until Thursday night.. Use caution when driving in areas where flooding is possible.
The severe weather threats which are possible include:
- Thunderstorms
- Strong, damaging winds with peak gusts which may exceed 40 miles per hour
- Road Flooding
- Risk of rock and mudslides - NOT only in burn scar areas
Recommended actions:
- Consider changing plans and avoiding travel during severe weather
- Stay aware of the weather and your surroundings
- If you hear thunder, or see lightning or rapidly changing winds, go indoors and stay away from windows
- If you encounter a flooded road, turn around and find another route
- Avoid areas near or within creek or river channels
For the latest information on the storm, road closures, evacuations, and other emergency information, please visit READYSBC.ORG
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