Powerful Christmas Week Storm System to Slam Southern California With Flooding Rain, Damaging Winds, and Possible Tornado Activity
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — A major storm system rated at the highest intensity level by regional forecasters is set to hammer Southern California from December 24 through December 28, bringing flood emergencies, high wind warnings, and the potential for severe thunderstorms and isolated tornadoes across multiple counties. Officials warn that this Christmas period could produce some of the most significant weather impacts the region has seen in years.
Flood Emergency Issued as Atmospheric Lift Targets Metro Areas
Forecasters report that strong low-level southerly flow will create powerful orographic lift over coastal and metro zones, dramatically increasing the risk of flooding across Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Diego, and the Inland Empire. Rainfall projections show widespread totals of 3–6 inches, with over 7 inches possible in foothill and mountain regions.
These totals meet criteria for a Flood Emergency, with officials warning that additional rounds of rain could trigger rapid rises in creeks, urban flooding, and road closures.
Motorists are being urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways, especially at night, when rising water is harder to detect.
High Winds Expected to Down Trees and Damage Infrastructure
A High Wind Warning has also been issued, with the storm expected to produce widespread damaging wind gusts strong enough to bring down trees and powerlines. According to the Raiden Storm Wind Gust Intensity Scale, the incoming system is capable of:
- Category 6–7 impacts, meaning trees may be uprooted, structural damage is possible, and high-profile vehicle rollovers are likely.
- Gusts strong enough to topple trees onto homes and vehicles, especially in densely populated metro areas.
The combination of saturated soil and strong gusts makes tree-related hazards one of the top concerns heading into Christmas Eve.
Threat of Severe Thunderstorms and Possible Tornadoes
Forecasters are also monitoring the potential for severe thunderstorms embedded within the storm band. The atmospheric environment may support rotating cells capable of producing:
- Damaging straight-line winds
- Isolated tornadoes
- Sudden bursts of intense rainfall
Given these conditions, residents are urged to stay updated on real-time alerts as the storm evolves.
Storm Timeline: December 24–28
- December 24 (Christmas Eve): System enters Southern California, bringing heavy rain and building winds by afternoon.
- December 25: Widespread rain continues; strongest wind gusts expected.
- December 26–27: Additional storm waves bring more rain to already saturated areas.
- December 28: Gradual tapering, though lingering flooding concerns may continue into the morning.
Forecasters stress that the multi-day duration of this event will significantly increase flood risk.
Officials Urge Caution and Preparedness
Authorities are advising residents to prepare now by:
- Securing outdoor items
- Avoiding parking under large trees
- Preparing for potential power outages
- Monitoring local emergency updates
- Staying off mountain and desert roads during peak wind periods
Given the storm’s strength, officials say extra precautions are warranted.
Southern California residents should follow guidance from local agencies and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions throughout the holiday week. For more updates on major weather events affecting communities nationwide, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
