Storm Advisories Issued

As the rain descends in spurts, flood warnings have been issued for Santa Barbara County areas, lane closures near Solimar are being called on and off, and North County areas of Santa Barbara were warned this morning of possible tornado-like 50 mph gusts.

Near State Beaches at Solimar, heavy rain and flooding around 11 a.m. temporarily left only lane 3 (the slow lane) of the southbound 101 open. On the 101 northbound, only lane 1 (the fast lane) was open. All lanes are reported to be open again. Emma Wood State Beach has been closed with the Pacific Coast Highway there hit with debris and flooding. Ventura County’s emergency center reports heavy rainfall till about 1:45 p.m. could continue to affect highway traffic.

A deluge of rain hitting the foothills at San Marcos Pass, Summerland, and Nordhoff Ridge prompted flash flood warnings for downstream areas at 10:52 a.m. today, lasting through 1:45 p.m., reports the Santa Barbara County Office of Emergency Management. The office cautions of possible flooding from Summerland west to Vandenberg Village, also Figueroa Mountain and the highway through Gaviota. Drivers are advised to turn around if they encounter flooded roads.

The fast-moving storm may result in thunderstorms through noon, with wind gusts up to 60 mph heading west from Montecito, Santa Barbara County advises.