Storm Soaks Santa Maria: Safety Officials Warn Drivers to Slow Down in Wet Conditions

SANTA MARIA, Calif. — Santa Maria experienced consistent showers throughout the day on Thursday during this year's first major storm with only brief pauses.

The valley’s parched land has certainly received a much-needed dose of rain.

There were one or two brief lulls around midday, but the rain picked up again steadily with little delay each time.

By the end of lunch, reports surfaced of power outages in Guadalupe, though crews have been working to restore service.

With thick cloud cover, cool temperatures and high winds, the storm has been a notable one for the area.

City and safety officials have remained on alert for any issues caused by the unusually rainy weather.

California Highway Patrol officials say the most common mistake drivers make in these conditions is driving too fast. They emphasize that it is better to arrive late than not at all.

“Definitely. Hope everybody stays safe. Hope everybody just makes sure that we’re taking care of each other out here in our community,” said Lucio Medina, a Santa Maria resident.

“Just because the speed limit is 65 doesn’t mean you should go 65 in the rain. Slow down. There are potholes. There is flooding on the shoulders. You don’t want to hit that and hydroplane, so slow down and prepare yourself for the worst,” said Maria Barriga with the Santa Maria CHP.

According to CHP, if the posted speed limit is 65 mph but an officer is driving slowly in the rain and you pass them, you may be pulled over.

The storm also postponed the Santa Maria Business Expo and Job Fair.

The event is now scheduled for March 25 at the Santa Maria Fairpark.