LOS ANGELES, December 26, 2025: Los Angeles was placed under a severe flash flood warning late Wednesday as a powerful Pacific storm brought heavy rainfall, widespread flooding, and mudslides across Southern California, severely disrupting Christmas Eve travel and prompting multiple emergency rescues. The National Weather Service issued multiple alerts across Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties as the slow-moving system dumped several inches of rain within hours. Forecasters said up to eight inches of total rainfall could accumulate in some areas through the weekend, with conditions expected to remain hazardous due to saturated ground and continued runoff. Flooded roadways, overflowing storm drains, and mud-covered streets were reported in parts of Los Angeles, Malibu, and Topanga Canyon, where hillside communities are particularly vulnerable to debris flows.
Emergency crews responded to numerous calls for stranded drivers and flooded homes after intense downpours caused street flooding and road closures. Sections of Pacific Coast Highway and portions of the 101 Freeway were temporarily shut down due to water accumulation and debris. The Los Angeles Fire Department said it conducted several swift-water rescues across the city as creeks and channels overflowed. Officials advised residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary and to monitor local alerts. Evacuation warnings were issued for neighborhoods located near recent wildfire burn scars, where heavy rainfall increases the likelihood of mudslides and debris flows. Strong winds accompanying the storm downed trees and power lines, leaving thousands without electricity in parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
Utility crews worked through the evening to restore power as emergency services cleared debris and responded to storm-related hazards. Coastal areas were also affected by high surf and strong rip currents, prompting beach closures and warnings from local lifeguards. Meteorologists identified the storm as an atmospheric river event, carrying a concentrated plume of tropical moisture from the Pacific Ocean into the region. The phenomenon has become increasingly associated with intense rain episodes along the U.S. West Coast, where narrow bands of moisture can deliver large volumes of rainfall over a short period. The current system marks one of the heaviest December rainfall events in Los Angeles in several years. The National Weather Service extended flood watches and high surf advisories across Southern California through Friday, warning that additional bands of rain could develop overnight.
Power outages spread as winds topple trees and poles
Snowfall was reported at higher elevations, including parts of the San Gabriel Mountains and the Sierra Nevada, where winter storm warnings were in effect. Travel through mountain passes such as the Grapevine along Interstate 5 was slowed by icy conditions and reduced visibility. Transportation officials reported significant travel disruptions across the region. At Los Angeles International Airport, dozens of flights were delayed or canceled as heavy rain and gusty winds affected operations. Major transit routes were congested, with authorities advising motorists to stay off the roads and allow emergency crews to clear blocked routes. The California Department of Transportation deployed additional resources to monitor landslides and flooding in vulnerable areas.
State and local agencies activated emergency operations centers to coordinate response efforts as the storm continued to impact multiple counties. Temporary shelters were opened for residents displaced by flooding or landslides, and sandbag distribution sites remained active throughout Los Angeles County. Officials urged the public to heed evacuation warnings and to remain alert to changing weather conditions. Forecasters said the core of the storm system would move inland by late Thursday, with lingering showers expected through the weekend. While rainfall totals were forecast to gradually decrease, the risk of flooding and slope instability was expected to remain elevated due to oversaturated soils. Additional rain bands from a separate weather system moving toward the Pacific Coast could bring further precipitation on Christmas Day, affecting parts of the western United States including California, Oregon, and Nevada.
Authorities assess storm impact and infrastructure damage
Emergency services across the region remain on high alert as crews assess damage and clear blocked infrastructure. Officials emphasized that residents should continue monitoring weather updates and adhere to all safety advisories while cleanup and recovery operations are underway. Authorities confirmed that assessment teams are inspecting bridges, culverts, and hillside stability zones to prevent further incidents as rainfall continues. Public works departments are coordinating with state transportation and utility crews to restore access to isolated neighborhoods and ensure essential services are maintained. Local shelters remain operational to accommodate displaced families, while health and emergency management agencies are providing logistical support for relief efforts. Residents are being urged to report hazards such as downed power lines, flooding, or landslides to local authorities to facilitate rapid response and reduce secondary risks associated with ongoing storm activity. – By Content Syndication Services.