Flash Flood in Santa Barbara County, California

Flash Flood January 3, 2026 · Santa Barbara County, California

Where the report was made, with tornadoes recorded within 15 miles over the years.

What the National Weather Service wrote

Heavy rainfall generated flash flooding and a mudslide across all lanes of Highway 101, near Gaviota State Park.

The wider storm

A powerful winter storm brought heavy rain to Southwestern California. Widespread rainfall totals between 2 and 5 inches were reported. With the heavy rain, there were numerous reports of flash flooding and mud/debris flows.

Began near Lento Station (34.4743, -120.1463).

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event 1311183. Narratives are written by the National Weather Service forecast office that issued the report.

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