Tracking the Central Coast Storm
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. – Rain returns early Friday morning as a second cold front moves through the region, bringing cold temperatures and leading to rare snowfall in areas like Tepike Peak and Highway 154. The rain will taper off by Friday night, clearing skies and warming temperatures back into the 60s by the weekend.
Another storm system is expected by St. Patrick's Day, bringing light rain early in the morning before another dry period follows.
You can sign up for important city updates on ReadySBC.org, which includes resources on road closures, evacuation shelters, and animal evacuation assistance. Residents should prioritize safety, take proactive measures, and stay informed through official channels.
Wednesday
Heavy rain arrives from the north Wednesday evening. Rainfall rates could reach .5 to .75 per hour. Strong winds and mountain snow expected as well. About 1 inch of rain possible across the region by the end of the midweek storm. Skies hold mostly cloudy, winds gust to above advisory levels and heavy rain approaches. Expect this system to move fast and into the overnight hours.
Thursday
Thursday morning will be a messy one, as most of the storm has passed through leaving a soaking Central Coast. Travel safely as light lingering showers will be likely throughout the morning. Winds will die down as the bulk of the moisture moves into LA counties. Other than cool temperatures and lingering on and off rain, it will be a pleasant evening.
Friday
Rain returns early Friday morning as a second cold front moves through the region, bringing temperatures 10-20 degrees below average and lowering snow levels to around 3,000 feet, leading to rare snowfall in areas like Tepike Peak and Highway 154. Coastal areas are experiencing light to moderate steady rain, with occasional heavier downpours possible, while inland regions, including Santa Ynez, are seeing soaking conditions. Ventura County is expected to receive rainfall later in the morning. Winds remain breezy with gusts up to 40 mph, prompting a wind advisory, while higher elevations could see up to 6 additional inches of snow under a winter storm warning through early Saturday. The rain will taper off by Friday night as high pressure builds, clearing skies and warming temperatures back into the 60s by the weekend. Another storm system is expected by St. Patrick's Day, bringing light rain early in the morning before another dry period follows. Expect chilly temperatures in the 50s and 60s during the day and 30s to 40s overnight, so dress warmly and prepare for wet conditions before a sunnier weekend ahead.
Sandbag Resources
When pack properly, sandbags can act as a barrier between water and a private property to reduce water damage. Be prepared with your own shovels and gloves to fill bags. Please reach out to the jurisdiction with any questions. Sandbag Station Locations here:
Santa Barbara County:
The following Sandbag Station locations are open Tuesday, March 11 from 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.:
- Annex Yard: 401 East Yanonali Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
- City Fire Station 7: 2411 Stanwood Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
- Santa Barbara City College Lot 3: 801 Shoreline Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
- The Armory: 700 E. Canon Perdido Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Full list here. More information on SB County Sandbags here.
San Luis Obispo County:
Sandbags are also available to purchase from local hardware and home centers, find that list here.
- City Corporation Yard parking lot: 25 Prado Road, San Luis Obispo, CA
- Laguna Lake Golf Course parking lot: 11175 Los Osos Valley Road, San Luis Obispo, CA
Full list here
Ventura County:
- City Fire Station 54: 2160 Pickwick Drive, Camarillo, CA, 93010
- City Fire Station 26: 536 W. Main Street, Santa Paula, CA 93060
- City Fire Station 21: 1201 E. Ojai Avenue, Ojai, CA 93023
- City Fire Station 57: 3356 Somis Road, Somis, CA 93066
Full list here
