Creeks Clear and Ready for Incoming Storm

The Santa Barbara County Flood Control District is ready for the incoming storm, but it doesn’t expect serious problems.

The weather system will bring 1.0 -3.0 inches of rain depending where it hits, and what kind of on shore flow gives the rain clouds a push.

Mission Creek in Oak Park is dry and clear as the storm approaches. It will take in runoff from upper elevations, and urban streets as it curves through Santa Barbara.

Street flooding is more likely than creek issues with this storm, depending on intensities.

The last solid storm was October 31 during Halloween celebrations.

Cachuma Lake is at 28 percent of its capacity and critically down from the spill gates at Bradbury Dam, along with the vital Tecelote Tunnel that brings water to communities including Goleta and Santa Barbara.

This storm will not be a “drought buster.” Santa Barbara County is in an exceptional drought crisis and will need in excess of 30 inches of rain to not only get saturation but also a substantial runoff to begin refilling Cachuma. Flood Control officials say back to back storms like the one that is coming would be a good start, but that is not in the forecast.

There’s still a chance of debris such as boulders and some crumbling hills, to be a problem on San Marcos Pass between Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez.

Many residents NewsChannel 3 spoke to said they have checked their properties to make sure they are ready for rain. Some cleared rain gutters, others picked up sandbags for an emergency need.

Drivers are also advised to have a well maintained car with reliable tires, and good wipers.