Severe flash flooding in one of California’s largest counties caused chaos during morning commutes in San Diego on Monday. The intense rainfall resulted in road shutdowns, power outages, and school closures.
This weather havoc is the latest in a series of extreme weather events that have affected the nation in the past week, including frigid temperatures, heavy snow, and occasional flooding.
Los Angeles County also experienced downpours on Monday, while southern and central Texas had flood warnings issued on Sunday. The National Weather Service declared a flood watch in San Diego County due to excessive rainfall, warning of potential flooding in poor drainage and urban areas.
They also cautioned that storm drains and ditches may become clogged with debris.
A low-pressure system entered Southern California and northern Baja, bringing along the rain.
Later in the afternoon, Mayor Todd Gloria of San Diego announced on X that he had officially declared a state of emergency in the city as a result of the heavy rainfall and subsequent flash flooding. Mayor Gloria urged residents to remain at home if feasible and emphasized the importance of avoiding flooded roads at all costs.
Multiple videos circulating on social media depicted the alarming sight of vehicles being swept away by powerful torrents. Numerous road closures were documented, including a heavily utilized off-ramp on Interstate 5 that provides access to the San Diego Airport, as confirmed by the weather service.
In response to the dire situation, the city promptly established sandbag distribution points for its residents. Additionally, the American Red Cross swiftly opened shelters to provide assistance, while a temporary homelessness shelter was also set up.
According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, this unusual and intense rainstorm was a result of Pacific moisture colliding with San Clemente Island before making its way to the coast of San Diego County.
National City experienced a staggering three inches of rainfall, while San Diego International Airport recorded two inches, as reported by the news organization.