A second wave of powerful winter storms moved into California late Tuesday and into Christmas morning, prompting emergency officials to issue rare “high risk” alerts for flash flooding and mudslides across parts of Southern California. Meteorologists warned that saturated ground and unstable hillsides significantly increased the danger as heavy rainfall returned to regions still recovering from recent wildfires.
The National Weather Service placed several counties under its highest flood risk category, citing rainfall rates capable of overwhelming drainage systems in a short period of time. Emergency managers said the second storm system followed closely behind an earlier round of heavy rain, leaving little opportunity for soil to absorb additional moisture.
Local authorities reported widespread impacts as the storm intensified overnight. More than 130,000 residents experienced power outages as high winds and flooding damaged electrical infrastructure. Utility crews worked throughout the night, though officials cautioned that restoration efforts could be delayed in areas where access roads were blocked or conditions remained unsafe.
Swift water rescue teams were deployed in multiple communities after vehicles became trapped in fast-moving floodwaters. Fire departments and sheriff’s offices urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, warning that even shallow water posed serious risks. Several rescues involved drivers attempting to cross flooded intersections or roadways despite posted closures.
Mudslides were a particular concern in burn scar areas, where vegetation loss has left slopes vulnerable to collapse. Officials reported debris flows near canyon roads and hillside neighborhoods, prompting temporary evacuation advisories in some locations. Emergency crews conducted door-to-door notifications in high-risk zones as rainfall intensified.
Transportation disruptions continued through Christmas morning. Portions of major highways were closed due to flooding, fallen debris, or standing water, affecting commuter traffic and holiday travel. Transit agencies reported delays and rerouted services as crews assessed damage and cleared roadways.
State and local officials emphasized that the threat remained ongoing as the second storm system moved slowly through the region. Residents were advised to monitor emergency alerts, heed evacuation warnings, and avoid flood-prone areas. Authorities stressed that conditions could change rapidly, particularly overnight when visibility is reduced.
Governor’s office representatives said coordination remained active between state emergency services, local governments, and utility providers. Resources, including rescue teams and equipment, were pre-positioned in areas forecast to receive the heaviest rainfall.
Forecasters indicated that while rainfall totals varied by location, the combination of back-to-back storms significantly increased the likelihood of dangerous flooding. Even areas that avoided major impacts during the first storm were considered at risk due to cumulative rainfall.
As of Wednesday morning, damage assessments were still underway, and no updated timeline had been provided for full power restoration. Emergency officials said they would continue issuing public safety advisories until conditions stabilized and the storm system moved out of the region.
Residents were urged to remain cautious through the remainder of the storm period, with authorities reiterating that flooding and mudslides remain among the most dangerous winter weather threats facing California during heavy rain events.
