California is grappling with severe flash flooding and widespread disruption as a powerful winter storm battered the state from Christmas Eve through Friday, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and dangerous road conditions across multiple regions.
Authorities confirmed evacuations in high-risk areas, major road closures, and travel chaos as emergency crews responded to flooding and mudslides.
Flood Alerts Issued Across California
The National Weather Service warned that a “strong atmospheric river” is impacting California, delivering intense rainfall, snow in higher elevations, and damaging winds.
Officials urged residents to exercise extreme caution, particularly on Christmas Eve, as flash flood warnings were issued for large portions of Los Angeles County and surrounding areas.
Cities affected by warnings included Lancaster, Palmdale, Long Beach, Downtown Los Angeles, Inglewood, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and nearby communities.
ALERT | Standing Flood Water on I-5
A vehicle is stuck in high water at an underpass on the freeway. Avoid the area. Stay safe and updated with Citizen #ProtectTheWorld📍Sun Valley, California pic.twitter.com/18VBHGTs7J
— Citizen (@CitizenApp) December 24, 2025
Los Angeles, San Bernardino Face Severe Flooding
In Los Angeles, multiple major streets were inundated. Images from Interstate 5 showed vehicles stuck in traffic, while videos from Sun Valley revealed portions of the freeway submerged under water.
San Bernardino County officials reported flooding in neighborhoods near rivers, with water entering streets and homes. Rescue teams worked through the evening as residents were evacuated from high-risk zones.
Major Roads Closed Due to Flooding and Mudslides
Several key roadways were shut down as conditions worsened. Highway 166 was closed between Maricopa and Old River Road due to flooding beginning around 2:20 p.m.
In Malibu, officials closed Tuna Canyon Road, Malibu Canyon Road, and sections of Topanga Canyon Boulevard after mud and debris covered the roads. Authorities said some closures are expected to remain in effect through Friday.
Governor Declares State of Emergency
California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a statewide emergency, activating additional resources to support local response efforts.
“California is acting early and decisively to do all we can to get ahead of dangerous winter storms,” Newsom said, adding that the state has pre-positioned emergency resources and is coordinating closely with local agencies.
Holiday Travel Disrupted
The storm severely impacted holiday travel, with flooded roads, flight delays, and cancellations reported across the state. Officials warned that conditions could remain dangerous as rain continues and runoff increases.
Emergency services remain on high alert as the storm system continues to move through California.
