Please take steps to prepare for rain and storm impacts beginning Tuesday, December 23 and lasting through the weekend. 

FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FOR ALL OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY 4PM TUESDAY THROUGH 10PM WEDNESDAY

FORECAST DETAILS 

According to the National Weather Service, rain will begin in Santa Barbara County on Tuesday, December 23. Peak storm impacts are expected on Tuesday evening into Wednesday (Christmas Eve) and again Wednesday evening into Thursday (Christmas Day). Rain is expected on and off through Saturday. 

The expected rain totals from Tuesday to Saturday are 4-6 inches at the coast and 6-12 inches for the mountains and foothills. Rain rates are anticipated to be generally 0.6-1.25 inches per hour.

Please prepare for potentially damaging winds. In the mountains and foothills, wind gusts of up to 50-70 mph are expected Tuesday through Thursday. Thunderstorms are also possible during this timeframe and may produce sudden heavy downpours and high winds. 

Given the current forecast information, evacuations are NOT being considered for Montecito.

Please prepare now for potential storm impacts. Gusty winds may cause downed trees and power lines, leading to isolated power outages. Be cautious of loose or falling rocks, mud, debris, and flooded roadways. If possible, avoid travel due to hazardous storm conditions. 

INFORMATION SOURCES

Listen to Montecito Fire Department’s AM1610 radio station for updates and follow @MontecitoFire on social media.

Register for ReadySBC Alerts at ReadySBC.org

SANDBAG INFORMATION

The sandbag filling station is available for community members at Lower Manning Park.