At a Glance
- Heavy rain, snow, and wind from a strong atmospheric river flooded California roads, triggered mudflows, and a flash flood warning until 6 p.m. Wednesday.
- Multiple freeways and local roads closed due to flooding and debris.
- Drivers urged extreme caution on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
A major winter storm rolled into California on December 23, bringing heavy rain, snow, and wind. The storm triggered flooding, mudflows, and a flash flood warning that remains in effect until 6 p.m. Wednesday. Drivers were warned to exercise extreme caution on roadways during Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Storm Impact on Roads
The storm caused widespread road closures. Key highways affected include the 5 Freeway, I-5, and local streets in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Flooded intersections and debris blocked lanes, forcing detours and emergency response.
- 5 Freeway in Sun Valley closed due to flooded lanes.
- I-5 near Monte Bonita Drive flooded in Eagle Rock.
- Several streets in Oxnard, Altadena, and Ventura Beach were submerged.
Flooding and Mudflows
Heavy rainfall produced mud and debris flows, especially in burn-scarred areas. Residents in Wrightwood were urged to shelter in place, while fire crews worked to clear affected neighborhoods.
| Area | Flooding Type | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Sun Valley | Flooded lanes | 5 Freeway closed |
| Eagle Rock | Flooded intersection | Evacuation order |
| Altadena | Mudflow | Cleanup crews on site |
| Ventura Beach | Debris accumulation | Evacuation order |
The storm also left a flash flood warning in place for most of Los Angeles County until 6 p.m. Wednesday.
Key Takeaways
- Heavy rain and snow caused widespread flooding and mudflows across California.
- Major freeways and local roads were closed, prompting detours.
- A flash flood warning remains in effect until 6 p.m. Wednesday.
The storm’s impact underscores the importance of staying informed and following official advisories during extreme weather events.
