Santa Barbara, CA – Drivers across Santa Barbara County face continued flooding concerns early Friday as steady, heavy rainfall pushes through the region ahead of the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service, a Flood Advisory remains in effect until 6 a.m. PST for areas stretching from Gaviota north and eastward, including Santa Barbara, Goleta, Solvang, Carpinteria, Montecito, and the Santa Ynez Valley. Forecasters say moderate to heavy rain bands have persisted overnight, creating hazardous travel conditions.
At about 2:58 a.m. PST, radar and rain gauges showed widespread totals between 0.50 and 2 inches, with isolated pockets nearing 3 inches. According to meteorologists, minor flooding is already occurring—or is expected to begin shortly—in low-lying areas, poor-drainage zones, and along small creeks and normally dry arroyos. Water over roadways has also been reported in multiple locations.
The advisory covers a wide stretch of Santa Barbara County, including Highway 101 through Gaviota State Park, Highway 154 over San Marcos Pass, Isla Vista, Buellton, Los Alamos, and areas near El Capitan State Beach and Refugio State Beach. Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded areas overnight, as ponding and sudden rises in creeks may be difficult to see in the dark.
Forecasters say showers will continue early this morning before gradually tapering later in the day. Travelers should expect slowdowns, slick roadways, and possible detours.
