Triple Threat Storms to Batter California This Week

Flooding, mountain snow, and damaging winds forecast across the state

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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More than 16 million people in California are under flood watches as a trio of storms is set to bring heavy rain, feet of mountain snow, and powerful winds to the state this week. The storms could trigger mudslides, road closures, and power outages across the region.

Why it matters

The storms come at a critical time for California's water supply, as the state's snowpack is currently at just 53% of normal levels. The heavy mountain snow could help replenish the state's water reserves, but the flooding and high winds pose risks to public safety and infrastructure.

The details

The first storm system is expected to move through California today and into Monday, bringing 1 to 3 inches of rain to coastal valleys and 2 to 5 inches in the mountains. Forecasters warn of a high risk of mudslides in recent burn scar areas. A winter storm warning is also in effect through Thursday, with several feet of heavy snow expected in the eastern San Gabriel Mountains and northern Ventura County mountains, leading to road closures. Wind advisories are up through Monday evening for the coasts and valleys, with gusts up to 55 mph expected.

  • The first storm system is expected to move through California today and into Monday.
  • A winter storm warning is in effect through Thursday morning.
  • Wind advisories are up through Monday evening.

The players

NOAA's Weather Prediction Center

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and analysis.

California Department of Water Resources

The state agency that manages California's water resources, including the Sierra Nevada snowpack.

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What they’re saying

“We actually have at least a couple of systems that are going to be impacting California in particular, with the first system coming through today and going into the overnight hours.”

— Andrew Orrison, Meteorologist (9news.com)

“Those are the areas where you do have some of these burn scars that have occurred in recent years. And so they're very sensitive to heavy rainfall.”

— Andrew Orrison, Meteorologist (9news.com)

What’s next

Residents in affected areas should closely monitor weather forecasts and be prepared to take action if flooding, snow, or high winds threaten their communities.

The takeaway

The triple threat of storms hitting California this week highlights the state's vulnerability to extreme weather events, which are expected to become more frequent and severe due to climate change. Effective disaster preparedness and resilience planning will be crucial for protecting Californians in the years ahead.