Storm Advisory and Flood Watch Through Thursday Morning

By the edhat staff

Another storm is causing a flood watch for the Central Coast from Wednesday through Thursday morning.

On Tuesday morning the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Flood Watch for San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties. The watch is expected to take place on Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning.

“Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible within the entire Watch area, with the greatest threat near and below the Alisal burn scar and in urban areas,” the NWS states.

Significant flash flooding and debris flows are possible, especially in and below the Alisal burn scar. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of creeks, streams, and urban areas. While the risk of main stem river flooding is low, water flowing through normally dry rivers may be a threat to some homeless communities, the NWS reports.

An atmospheric river is pushing through the region Wednesday night into Thursday morning with support periods of heavy rainfall with rates up to around an inch per hour. This has prompted concern for flooding and flash flooding across the region.

Rainfall totals of 2-4 inches will be common with 4-8 inches expected in the mountains, highest across the Santa Lucia mountains and Santa Ynez mountains east into south facing interior Santa Barbara mountains.

“You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepare to take action should flooding develop,” the NWS reports.

Additionally, a beach hazards alert is also in effect from Wednesday through Friday along the Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles county coastlines.

High surf is expected for all beach areas Thursday and Friday, with the potential for a warning level surf along the Ventura Coast. Surf heights of 8 to 12 feet are possible for the Los Angeles and Ventura coasts, with potential for sets to 15 feet near Ventura Harbor. Surf heights of 6-10 feet are possible along the Santa Barbara South Coast as well.

The large surf along the Ventura Coast may result in minor coastal flooding, especially late Thursday and Friday.

There is an increased risk of ocean drowning in these conditions. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea, waves can wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore.

The NWS asks everyone to remain out of the water due to hazardous swimming conditions, or stay near occupied lifeguard towers. Rock jetties can be deadly in such conditions, so stay off the rocks.

Advisory: Message from the Santa Barbara County Office of Emergency Management:

Heavy rain is expected countywide Wednesday, January 4th and Thursday January 5th, 2023. The heaviest rainfall is expected on the South Coast including the Alisal Burn Scar, Thomas Fire Burn Scar, and the Cave Fire Burn Scar. The most significant rainfall is expected from 10PM January 4th through 10AM January 5th.

Damaging winds could blow down large objects such as trees and outdoor furniture. Unplanned power outages are possible.

Current forecasts indicate this storm may cause significant flooding countywide. Residents should remain vigilant as conditions can change quickly.

Before the Rain:

If you live in a burn scar area and are concerned that this storm may cause unsafe conditions to your home, leave the area before rain starts. Do not wait for an official evacuation notification to leave.
Information about sandbags and protecting your home from flooding can be found at: https://www.readysbc.org/576/Storm-Readiness

During Rain:

If you feel unsafe during the rainfall, shelter in place in your home by gathering your family and pets in the inner most room of your house, preferably on the top floor if you live in a multi-story home.
Do not attempt to drive at night or while it is raining, as roads may be damaged and your car may be swept away by moving water or debris.

After the Rain:

Following a storm, roads may be impacted and immediate access in or out of the area cannot be guaranteed.
Crews will clear roads of mud and rock slides when it is safe to do so.
Residents must be prepared to stay in or away from their home for multiple days during and after rain events.

Public safety officials are keeping a close eye on the incoming storm and working closely with the National Weather Service. Officials will continue to work together to further assess if protective actions, such as an evacuation warning, evacuation order, or shelter in place are necessary.