The latest rain hits the South Coast catching some people off guard

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — A midday round of rain hit the South Coast on Wednesday, leading to an immediate increase in vehicle crashes.

Just before noon, a collision on the Mesa left two cars blocking Cliff Drive and Flora Vista. No serious injuries were reported.

Minutes later, a tree service truck towing a wood chipper overturned on the freeway on-ramp at Calle Real, across from the Earl Warren Showgrounds. The two occupants escaped without injury.

The truck narrowly missed the slow lane of the freeway, but the incident still caused traffic backups. California Highway Patrol officers and firefighters responded quickly, containing leaking fluids. A heavy-duty tow truck was called to right the vehicle.

A multi-vehicle crash was also reported on southbound Highway 101 at Garden Street near the on-ramp.

As the rain continued, attendees of the ongoing Santa Barbara International Film Festival arrived at theaters, some prepared with umbrellas and others caught off guard without hats or adequate jackets.

“I’ve done this before, so I keep extra stuff in my car—enough to go back and change into,” said Margaret Morrison. “I have fresh socks, and I bought this umbrella yesterday.”

Jonathan Gartner, however, was slightly underprepared.

“A down jacket, which is not the best for this weather, no brim on my hat,” he said. “But we’ll be inside soon, warm and dry, so no problem here.”

Meanwhile, some runners were spotted braving the rain in lightweight clothing, leaping over puddles.