Flash Flood — Santa Barbara, California

2026-01-03 · near Orella, Santa Barbara, California

Event narrative

Heavy rainfall generated flash flooding and debris flows at the intersection of Refugio Road and Calle Real. One vehicle was caught in the flooding.

Wider weather episode

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.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (34.4670, -120.0683)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1311186. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.