Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Santa Barbara Area

Storms could bring 60 mph winds and potential for tornado, flash flooding

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for the Santa Barbara, California area until 5:06 PM on February 16th. Severe thunderstorms with 60 mph wind gusts are moving through the region, posing risks of damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Residents are advised to remain alert for a possible tornado development and to take shelter in an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. The storms are also bringing heavy rainfall that could lead to flash flooding, so drivers are warned not to attempt crossing flooded roadways.

Why it matters

Severe thunderstorms can cause significant property damage and pose a serious threat to public safety, especially with the potential for tornadoes and flash flooding. The Santa Barbara area is particularly vulnerable given its coastal location and history of extreme weather events.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the severe thunderstorms were detected along a line extending from 16 miles northeast of Santa Maria to Isla Vista, moving east at 35 mph. Radar indicated the storms are capable of producing 60 mph wind gusts, which can result in roof, siding, and tree damage. Residents in the impacted areas, including Santa Ynez, Isla Vista, Goleta, Lake Cachuma, and the Santa Barbara Airport, are advised to take shelter immediately.

  • The Severe Thunderstorm Warning was issued at 9:04 AM PST on February 16, 2026.
  • The warning is in effect until 9:30 AM PST on February 16, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

The National Weather Service is the primary source of weather data, forecasts and warnings for the United States.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the severe thunderstorms and provide updates on the threat level and any changes to the warning area.

The takeaway

Residents in the Santa Barbara region should heed the Severe Thunderstorm Warning, seek shelter immediately, and avoid unnecessary travel until the storms have passed to ensure their safety. Preparing for extreme weather events is crucial for coastal communities like Santa Barbara that are vulnerable to the impacts of severe thunderstorms.