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 forced the closure of Santa Barbara International Airport. All flights were cancelled.

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 La Patera (34.4321, -119.8583).

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event 1311188. Narratives are written by the National Weather Service forecast office that issued the report.

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