High Wind — Santa Barbara County Inland Central Coast, California

2023-01-04 to 2023-01-05 · Santa Barbara County Inland Central Coast, California

Event narrative

Strong southerly winds impacted the Inland Central Coast of Santa Barbara county. Some peak wind reports from the local mesonet include: Purisima Hills (gust 61 MPH) and Divide-Cabrillo (gust 58 MPH).

Wider weather episode

A winter storm brought strong winds, moderate to heavy rainfall and high elevation snowfall to the area. Overall, rainfall totals ranged from 2 to 4 inches across coastal and valley areas with 4 to 8 inches across the foothills and mountains. Rainfall intensities were moderate, resulting in widespread nuisance urban flooding. Snow levels remained very high, above 6000 feet, with the resort level receiving 8-16 inches of snowfall. Along with the rain and snow, gusty southerly winds were reported with gusts up to 87 MPH.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1079255. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.