A powerful winter storm brought treacherous conditions to California on Monday, impacting areas from Sonoma County to the Sierra Nevada. Millions of Los Angeles County residents were under flash flood warnings as rain fell, and evacuation warnings were issued for communities previously scarred by last year’s wildfires due to the risk of mud and debris flows.
Roadway Disruptions and Travel Concerns
The storm caused significant disruptions to travel. Traffic was temporarily halted on Interstate 80 near the Nevada state line due to spinouts and crashes, according to the California Department of Transportation. In Santa Barbara County, a fallen tree blocked southbound lanes of US-101.
Forecasters predict up to 8 feet (2.4 meters) of snow could accumulate in the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, northern Shasta County—including portions of Interstate 5—and parts of the state’s Coast Range through late Wednesday. The combination of heavy snow, wind, and low visibility could make travel conditions dangerous.
Regional Impacts and Emergency Response
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass ordered emergency crews and city departments to prepare for potential problems. California’s Office of Emergency Services is positioning fire and rescue personnel in areas at highest risk for flooding and debris flows.
The storm’s impact extended beyond California. Parts of eastern Colorado, Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas were under red flag warnings due to a combination of high temperatures, gusty winds, and dry conditions.
The storm arrives during a snow drought across much of the American West, with snow cover at its lowest levels in decades. However, California experienced heavier rainfall in December than most other states.
“It has seemed ‘spring-like’ for a large part of 2026, but winter is set to show it’s not quite done yet,” the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are under evacuation warnings?
People in areas of Los Angeles County previously scarred by last year’s wildfires are under an evacuation warning through Tuesday due to the potential for mud and debris flows.
What is the forecast for snowfall?
Forecasters predict up to 8 feet (2.4 meters) of snow could fall in the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, northern Shasta County—including portions of Interstate 5—and parts of the state’s Coast Range through late Wednesday.
What other states are experiencing severe weather?
Parts of eastern Colorado, Texas, New Mexico, and Kansas are under red flag warnings due to a combination of high temperatures, gusty winds, and dry conditions.
As the storm continues to move through the region, will communities be able to effectively manage the risks associated with flooding, mudslides, and hazardous travel conditions?
