California are underwater now! Flash flooding in Santa Barbara and Santa Cruz due rain storm

The latest wave of strong winds and torrential rain to hit California in recent days caused severe flooding and significant damage along the state’s central coast. Several locations in the county had recorded between 9 and 11 inches of rainfall in the 24 hours.

The weather system, which forecasters warned was stronger than its predecessors, forced evacuations and major-highway closures from Monterey to Santa Barbara.

The local authorities warned of life-threatening flash flooding in Montecito and around Santa Barbara after torrents submerged roads and triggered mudslides. About half a foot of rain had fallen in Santa Barbara by Monday evening and nearly 13 inches at San Marcos Pass in the mountains to its northeast.

The Santa Barbara Airport was also closed due to flooding and commercial flights were canceled. Tens of thousands of people remained without power, and some schools closed for the day. Additionally, flash flood warnings have been issued throughout Santa Cruz County, urging people not to leave their homes unless absolutely necessary.