Heavy Rains and Snow Hit Southern California

Flood watches, wind advisories, and evacuation warnings issued as first wave of nearly week-long storm arrives

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The Presidents Day holiday began in Southern California with heavy rains, gusty winds, and the potential for mountain snow, with more precipitation expected for much of the week. Flood watches and wind advisories were issued in Los Angeles, and evacuation warnings were put in place for burn scar areas due to the threat of mud and debris flows. Forecasters predict 2 to 4 inches of rain in coastal and valley areas and 4 to 8 inches in the mountains and foothills by the end of the week.

Why it matters

The heavy rains and potential for flooding, mudslides, and debris flows pose a significant threat to public safety, especially in areas impacted by recent wildfires. The storm also has the potential to disrupt transportation, damage property, and impact daily life for residents across Southern California.

The details

The first of multiple storms expected this week brought cold temperatures and the potential for mountain snow, with the National Weather Service estimating 1 to 2.5 inches of rain in coastal and valley areas and more than double that amount in mountain and foothill communities through Monday. The NWS also warned of the possibility of 'small' or 'weak' tornadoes, although none had been reported as of Monday morning. Meteorologists said they expected more rain Tuesday and Wednesday, with totals that could reach 2 to 4 inches in coastal and valley areas and 4 to 8 inches in the mountains and foothills by the end of the week.

  • The first wave of the storm hit Southern California on Monday, Presidents Day.
  • More rain is expected on Tuesday and Wednesday.
  • By the end of the week, forecasters predict 2 to 4 inches of rain in coastal and valley areas and 4 to 8 inches in the mountains and foothills.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles, who urged residents to use caution and follow official guidance during the storm.

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What they’re saying

“It's going to be a very soggy, wet period over much of the week.”

— Mike Wofford, Meteorologist, National Weather Service (latimes.com)

“Again, this is likely to be another significant weather event that could cause high surf, flooded roadways, downed trees, and mud and debris flows that Angelenos need to take seriously.”

— Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles (latimes.com)

What’s next

Residents in burn scar areas are advised to check their evacuation plans, pack essentials, and be ready to leave if conditions worsen. Portions of Topanga Canyon Boulevard have been closed as a precaution, and the National Weather Service has issued multiple alerts for the Los Angeles area, including citywide flood watches and a wind advisory.

The takeaway

The heavy rains and potential for flooding, mudslides, and debris flows pose a significant threat to public safety in Southern California, especially in areas impacted by recent wildfires. Residents are urged to stay informed, use caution, and follow official guidance to ensure their safety during this multi-day storm event.