California Slammed by Winter Storm with High Winds, Heavy Rain and Snow

Millions face flash flood warnings as storm wreaks havoc on roadways across the state

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A powerful winter storm pummeled California on Monday, bringing treacherous thunderstorms, high winds, and heavy snow in mountain areas. Millions of Los Angeles County residents faced flash flood warnings, and people in some wildfire-scarred areas were under evacuation warnings due to the potential for mud and debris flows. The storm caused major disruptions to roadways, with traffic halted on I-80 and a large tree toppling onto US-101 in Santa Barbara County.

Why it matters

This winter storm is the latest in a series of extreme weather events that have impacted California in recent years, highlighting the state's vulnerability to the effects of climate change. The heavy rain, snow, and high winds have the potential to cause significant damage and disrupt the lives of millions of Californians.

The details

The storm brought up to 8 feet of snow to the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, northern Shasta County, and parts of the state's Coast Range, making travel conditions dangerous to near impossible. Emergency crews and city departments were put on alert to respond to any problems caused by the storm, which also prompted evacuation warnings for some areas scarred by last year's wildfires due to the risk of mud and debris flows.

  • The storm hit California on Monday, February 16, 2026.
  • The storm is expected to continue through late Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles, who ordered emergency crews and city departments to be ready to respond to any problems caused by the storm.

Kashawna McInerny

A realtor in the mountain community of Wrightwood, about 80 miles northeast of Los Angeles, who was still dealing with the aftermath of previous storms that had caused significant damage to her property.

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What they’re saying

“It has seemed 'spring-like' for a large part of 2026, but winter is set to show it's not quite done yet.”

— Shasta County Sheriff's Office (Social media post)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.