Powerful Winter Storm Triggers Extended Flash Flood Warnings in LA and Ventura Counties Amid Holiday Chaos
Los Angeles and Ventura counties are under severe threat from a powerful winter storm bringing heavy rain, fierce winds, and life-threatening flash flooding, with warnings extended into Christmas Eve as saturated soils exacerbate dangers across Southern California.
Highest Risk Level Issued by National Weather Service
The National Weather Service (NWS) has escalated to the highest flash flood risk for parts of Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties through Wednesday, December 24, 2025. Officials warn of imminent life-threatening flooding, urging residents to stay vigilant even during holiday celebrations.[1]
A powerful storm system is moving onshore after days of prior rainfall have left soils saturated, priming the region for dangerous flash floods, mudslides, and debris flows. Peak rainfall rates are forecasted at 0.2 to 0.6 inches per hour in coastal and valley areas, escalating to 0.9 to 1.5 inches per hour on south-facing mountain slopes.[2]
Flash Flood Warnings Extended
Ventura County’s Emergency Services reports a Flash Flood Warning remains in effect until 6:00 PM on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, for most of the county. Initially issued at 6:35 AM, the warning covers additional areas and highlights ongoing risks from the intensifying storm.[2]
In Los Angeles, similar extensions apply to vulnerable zones, with the NWS predicting 3 to 5 inches of rain in the LA Basin and even higher amounts in elevated terrains. Additional hazards include downed power lines, river and bed swelling, and potential road closures in flood-prone areas.[1][2]
“As we gather to celebrate with our loved ones, I encourage you to stay aware of areas that could be shut off.”
— Los Angeles Officials, via FOX Weather[1]
Multi-Day Storm Threat Looms
The current system is just the beginning. Follow-up storms are expected from Christmas Day through Friday, December 26-27, 2025, delivering another 0.5 to 1.5 inches to coastal and valley regions, and up to 1.5 to 5 inches in foothills and mountains. Overnight Thursday peaks could see intensities of 0.02 to 0.40 inches per hour, with totals reaching 0.75-1.25 inches coastside and 1.0-2.0 inches in higher elevations.[2]
Safety Measures and Impacts
- Evacuation and Alerts: All prior storm advisories and evacuation warnings from November 15 were lifted, but new Hazardous Weather Advisories cover from December 23 at 6:00 PM through December 24 at 6:00 PM. Residents in affected areas receive VC Alert notifications.[2]
- Travel Disruptions: Holiday travel faces major risks with flooded roads, potential mudslides, and power outages. Authorities advise avoiding travel unless essential.[1]
- Real-Time Monitoring: Ventura County provides an incident dashboard and map for live updates on affected zones.[2]
| Region | Current Storm (inches) | Additional Storms (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal/Valleys | 0.75-1.25 | 0.5-1.5 |
| Mountains/Foothills | 1.0-2.0 | 1.5-5.0 |
| LA Basin | 3-5 | TBD |
Regional Response and Historical Context
Los Angeles officials are bracing for the worst, echoing concerns from recent atmospheric river events that have pummeled California. The combination of holiday timing and extreme weather has heightened urgency, with calls for residents to monitor NWS updates and local alerts closely.
Ventura County emphasizes preparation: clear drains, avoid low-lying areas, and heed evacuation orders if reissued. No major injuries reported yet, but emergency services are on high alert.[2]
Looking Ahead
As the storm persists into the holiday weekend, communities from Santa Barbara to LA must balance festivities with safety. The NWS forecasts mountain snow alongside rain, potentially compounding debris flow risks in burn scar areas from prior wildfires.
Residents are advised to check Ventura County Emergency Dashboard and NWS sites for the latest. With more rain inbound, the threat of prolonged flooding remains critical through Saturday morning.[1][2]