A powerful winter storm swept into Ventura County early on December 24, bringing intense downpours, flash flood warnings, and dangerous wind conditions ahead of Christmas Eve. Emergency officials are urging residents to remain on high alert as the system continues to move through the region.
Heavy Rainfall and Damaging Winds Impact the Region
The storm delivered widespread rainfall across Ventura County, with some areas experiencing rapid flooding and hazardous driving conditions before sunrise. Forecasters warned that the heaviest rainfall and strongest winds are expected to continue through at least midday on Christmas Eve, creating the potential for more flooding, road closures, and debris flow.
Meteorologists say the region could see another strong burst of rain on Christmas Day, and showers are expected to linger through Saturday.
Evacuation Warnings Issued for High-Risk Areas
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services issued evacuation warnings ahead of the storm, particularly for communities near the Mountain Fire burn scar and other flood-prone zones. Officials emphasized that erosion and unstable ground in burn scar regions significantly increase the risk of mudslides and debris flow during heavy rainfall.
Authorities are urging residents in these areas to be prepared to leave quickly if conditions worsen.
Officials Urge Residents to Stay Alert
Emergency personnel warned that weather conditions could change rapidly throughout the day. Residents are encouraged to:
- Monitor alerts and warnings from local officials
- Avoid flooded roadways
- Have evacuation plans ready
- Stay indoors during periods of strong wind or intense rain
The Sheriff’s Office emphasized that safety should come first, and that residents should not hesitate to evacuate if they feel at risk.
More Rain Expected Through the Week
The storm system is expected to continue affecting Southern California through Saturday, bringing periods of heavy rain, wind, and potential flash flooding. Officials say updated advisories will be issued as conditions evolve throughout the holiday week.
Summary
Ventura County remains under storm-related alerts as heavy rain and winds impact the region, prompting evacuation warnings and safety reminders from emergency officials. Residents are urged to stay vigilant as additional storm activity is expected in the days ahead. Stay updated with real-time storm coverage and the latest emergency developments at HonkNews.com.