Winter Storm — Santa Barbara County Mountains, California

2019-12-26 · Santa Barbara County Mountains, California

Event narrative

A strong winter storm brought winter storm conditions to the mountains of Santa Barbara county. Estimated snowfall totals ranged between 6 and 18 inches with the highest totals above 5000 feet. Additionally, strong winds with gusts to 55 MPH were reported.

Wider weather episode

A powerful winter storm brought significant rain, snow and wind to the area. Rainfall totals ranged from 1 to 2 inches across coastal and valleys areas with 2 to 4 inches in the foothills and mountains. With snow levels dropping to between 2500 and 3500 feet, significant snowfall was reported in the mountains (up to 1 to 2 feet) and even the Antelope Valley (4 to 8 inches). Numerous road closures due to winter storm conditions were reported, including Interstate 5 through the Grapevine as well as Highways 14 and 138. Additionally, thunderstorms generated a waterspout over the coastal waters as well as a very weak tornado over Ventura Harbor.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 863980. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.