TL/DR –
A powerful storm caused extensive flooding in Ventura County, California, leading to a brief tornado warning and the necessity for some residents to evacuate their homes. The National Weather Service reported over 3 inches of rain falling in one hour at the Oxnard Civic Center and over 1.54 inches at the Ventura Auto Center within 15 minutes. Forecasters warned residents in the region to be on guard for debris flows, flash flooding, general flooding and overflowing rivers, with the storm expected to bring heavy rain, thunderstorms and further flooding.
Ventura County Storm Floods Roads, Triggers Tornado Warning
Severe flooding hit Ventura County due to a powerful storm which triggered a brief tornado warning, and more rain is predicted in the forecast until Friday. Neighborhoods in Oxnard and Ventura experienced heavy flooding, leading to submerged streets and intersections. The Oxnard Civic Center recorded over 3 inches of rain in one hour and the Ventura Auto Center saw 1.54 inches of rain in 15 minutes.
Despite early morning tornado warnings for several areas, no tornado activity was confirmed. Flash flood warnings were issued, with special notices for potential waterspouts and high winds in specific locations. The Oxnard Fire Department urged residents to avoid city streets due to flood risk. Multiple areas, including Hueneme Bay Club in the city of Port Hueneme, experienced significant flooding resulting in evacuation orders.
Forecast
The National Weather Service warned of a moderate risk of flooding in coastal regions of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties, as well as the Santa Monica Mountains. The slow-moving storm may cause heavy rain, thunder, and flooding in the coming days.
Timing
Thursday forecasts indicate heavy showers with a chance of thunderstorms. Friday and Saturday will see moderate to light showers, with Sunday and Monday bringing partly cloudy skies and slightly warmer temperatures.
Conditions
Special marine warnings were issued due to the potential for waterspouts and strong winds. Flood watches are in effect for much of Southern California, with warnings for debris flows, flash flooding, general flooding, and overflowing rivers. Rainfall rates could reach an inch per hour in some coastal ranges, with other areas expecting 0.30 to 0.60 of an inch of rain per hour.
Concerns
Flooding is expected to continue through Thursday, with the weather service advising drivers to avoid underwater roads. There is a risk of flash and urban flooding, with possible debris and mud flows. The weather service warned residents in its social media channels to ‘Turn around, don’t drown!’.
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