Rain Increases Crashes On I-15 Through Temecula: CHP

California Highway Patrol warns drivers to slow down and check their tires during wet weather conditions.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:56pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, depicting a rain-soaked highway cutting through a vast, fog-shrouded valley, with the road barely visible and dwarfed by the overwhelming scale of the natural elements.Wet weather conditions on major highways like I-15 can create treacherous driving environments, requiring extra caution from motorists.Temecula Today

The California Highway Patrol responded to numerous crashes on Interstate 15 in the Temecula area on Sunday due to heavy rain. CHP officials advised drivers to slow down, check their tires, and ensure their windshield wipers are working properly to avoid hydroplaning and other weather-related accidents.

Why it matters

Wet weather conditions can significantly increase the risk of car accidents, with over 860,000 crashes nationwide each year happening on wet pavement. The Temecula area of I-15 is a major thoroughfare, so any increase in crashes there can have widespread impacts on traffic and public safety.

The details

According to CHP Officer Brian Seel, auto accidents jump over 203% when it rains because drivers don't adjust their habits. Wet pavement can cause vehicles to hydroplane, especially if tires have worn tread. CHP advised drivers to slow down by about 1/3 on wet roads and check that their windshield wipers are in good working condition to maintain visibility.

  • The CHP responded to the crashes on Sunday, April 13, 2026.

The players

California Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling California's highways and responding to traffic incidents.

Brian Seel

A CHP officer who provided safety tips and statistics about weather-related crashes.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Don't become a part of the splash zone. Slow down, folks. Wet pavement can be a slip-n-slide at higher speeds.”

— CHP

“Wet weather causes more than 860,000 crashes nationwide each year, with 75% of weather-related crashes happening on wet pavement.”

— Brian Seel, CHP Officer

“Drive like your grandma's watching (and she's judging your tread depth). Stay safe out there — arrive alive.”

— Brian Seel, CHP Officer

What’s next

CHP will continue to monitor conditions on I-15 and provide updates to the public about any further weather-related incidents.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of drivers adjusting their behavior during wet weather conditions to avoid accidents. By slowing down, checking their tires, and ensuring their wipers are working properly, drivers can significantly reduce their risk of being involved in a weather-related crash.