A winter storm has struck the state of California, USA, bringing heavy snow, torrential rain, and strong winds. The state governor declared a state of emergency in multiple counties after at least four people died and widespread damage occurred.
On 26 Dec 2025 GMT+7, foreign news agencies reported that a major winter storm continued to batter many areas of California, USA, causing heavy snow, heavy rain, and strong gusty winds. Authorities had to close parts of California State Route 267 after multiple vehicles lost control in accidents.
The U.S. National Weather Service reported that in Nevada County, snowfall accumulation within 24 hours reached between 7 and 24 inches. A winter storm warning was issued until 10:00 p.m. local time. Areas above 4,500 feet are expected to receive an additional 8 to 12 inches of snow along with strong gusty winds.
Meanwhile, southern California faced heavy rain from an "Atmospheric River" phenomenon, with some areas receiving up to 8 inches of accumulated rainfall. Several locations previously burned by wildfires earlier this year issued evacuation warnings due to risks of landslides and mudslides. Officials went door-to-door ordering evacuations in over 380 at-risk homes. The resort town of Wrightwood, northeast of Los Angeles, issued evacuation notices due to mudflows reaching the roads.
In northern California, flash floods have been reported, causing at least four fatalities. Airports in San Francisco and Los Angeles experienced delays for some flights. Additionally, more than 5,000 households in Monterey were affected by power outages caused by damaged utility poles.
California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in several counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Shasta, to expedite resource mobilization for disaster response.
Meteorologists warned that the weather could worsen as multiple waves of winter storms move into California during the busiest travel week of the year.
Source: AP / The Guardian