Thunderstorms Roll Into Central Coast

Santa Barbara residents woke up to powerful rumbles in the sky from a thunderstorm making its way across the central coast.

Emergency crews were called out during the heavy rains to assist I several accidents plaguing the city during the early morning hours, and scanner traffic reported power outages in certain areas of the city.

The National Weather Service has issued an urban and small stream flood advisory for Santa Barbara County. The highest rainfall rates with the strongest storms have been between one half and three quarters of an inch per hour according to the National Weather Service.

Some street flooding occurred throughout the city and authorities strongly advise drivers to slow down and be mindful of all rules of the road. Residents are also urged to be prepared for any type of emergency. Have plenty of water, food, batteries, and a hand radio.

Light showers continued through the late afternoon but that did not deter people from flocking in numbers to Santa Barbara’s downtown, and business continues as usual.

Weather reports indicate a 60% chance of rain tonight with a possible rumble of thunder. Sunny skies follow for the next three days.

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