Weather

Heavy Flash Flooding Strikes Redding, California as Atmospheric River Dumps Torrential Rain Across Northern Region

BySaluda Standard Sentinel Team December 22, 2025December 22, 2025

CALIFORNIA — A powerful atmospheric river brought severe flash flooding to Redding on Wednesday, overwhelming roads, parking lots, neighborhoods, and major intersections across Shasta County.

Roads Submerged and Vehicles Stranded

Multiple low-lying streets and freeway ramps in and around Redding were quickly overtaken by fast-moving floodwaters, leaving several vehicles stranded and prompting emergency crews to respond to numerous rescue calls.

Officials confirmed that water levels rose rapidly in some neighborhoods, cutting off access and forcing motorists to abandon their cars as conditions deteriorated.

Officials Urge Residents to Stay Off Roads

Authorities are warning residents to avoid all flooded areas, stressing that water can rise and shift suddenly. One official cautioned, “We’re urging everyone to stay off flooded roads and never try to drive through standing water. Conditions can change fast.”

Flooding has already covered large portions of downtown streets, with images showing homes, businesses, and vehicles surrounded by debris-filled rushing water as the storm continues.

More Rain Expected as Atmospheric River Remains Over Region

Meteorologists warn that additional rounds of heavy rainfall are expected through the evening. With the ground already saturated, any additional downpour could lead to rapid flash flooding, landslides, and hazardous travel across Northern California. Emergency managers say the risk will remain high as long as the atmospheric river continues to funnel moisture into the state.

Community on Alert as Storm Intensifies

Local officials encourage residents to monitor alerts, avoid unnecessary travel, and remain prepared for changing conditions.

This event marks one of the most significant flooding episodes in Northern California so far this season, and crews are expected to work through the night as more rain moves in. Stay updated with the latest breaking news at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.

Saluda Standard Sentinel Team

The Saluda Standard-Sentinel Team represents the collective voice of our newsroom — covering urgent updates, official notices, and stories compiled by multiple reporters. Rooted in the South and committed to trusted local journalism, our team brings timely, community-first reporting to readers across South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia.