Orange County, California, December 22, 2025
A Flood Watch has been issued for Orange County and the Santa Ana Mountains due to excessive rainfall expected from December 23 to December 24. The National Weather Service warns of potential flooding, with forecasts predicting 2 to 10 inches of rain in various areas. Residents are advised to take precautions, especially around recent burn scars, and remain informed about changing weather conditions.
Flood Watch Issued for Orange County and Santa Ana Mountains
Orange County, California – A Flood Watch has been issued for Orange County and the Santa Ana Mountains, effective from 4:00 PM PST on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, through 10:00 PM PST on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. The National Weather Service (NWS) has raised concerns about potential flooding caused by excessive rainfall during this period.
Details of the Flood Watch
The NWS warns that heavy rainfall is expected to begin Tuesday evening, intensifying on Wednesday. Forecasts indicate:
- 2 to 5 inches of rain in valley and coastal areas, including Santa Clarita Valley.
- 5 to 10 inches of rain in foothills and mountains.
- Rainfall rates of up to 0.75 to 1.25 inches per hour.
These conditions may lead to urban flooding, rapid runoff, and mud-and-debris flows, especially near recent burn scars. Residents are advised to monitor local weather updates and take necessary precautions.
Impacted Areas
The Flood Watch encompasses the following regions:
- Orange County Coastal and Inland Areas
- Santa Ana Mountains and Foothills
- Inland Empire
- Coachella Valley
- San Bernardino and Riverside County Valleys
- San Bernardino and Riverside County Mountains
Residents in these areas should prepare for potential flooding and stay informed through official channels.
Historical Context
Orange County has a history of significant flooding events. Notably, the “Great Floods” of 1862 and 1938 caused extensive damage. The Santa Ana River, which flows through the county, has been a primary source of flooding during heavy rain periods. The Seven Oaks Dam, constructed to control runoff from the Santa Ana River, plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region.
Safety Recommendations
Residents should adhere to the following safety recommendations:
- Stay Informed: Regularly check updates from the National Weather Service and local authorities.
- Avoid Flood-Prone Areas: Do not drive or walk through flooded regions.
- Prepare Emergency Kits: Ensure you have essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and important documents.
- Secure Property: Bring in outdoor furniture and secure loose items that could become hazardous in strong winds.
By taking these precautions, residents can better protect themselves and their property during the upcoming storm.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Flood Watch Duration | 4:00 PM PST on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, through 10:00 PM PST on Wednesday, December 24, 2025 |
| Expected Rainfall | 2 to 5 inches in valleys and coastal areas; 5 to 10 inches in foothills and mountains |
| Rainfall Rates | Up to 0.75 to 1.25 inches per hour |
| Impacted Areas | Orange County Coastal and Inland Areas, Santa Ana Mountains and Foothills, Inland Empire, Coachella Valley, San Bernardino and Riverside County Valleys, San Bernardino and Riverside County Mountains |
| Historical Flooding | Notable events in 1862 and 1938; Santa Ana River as primary source of flooding |
| Safety Recommendations | Stay informed, avoid flood-prone areas, prepare emergency kits, secure property |
FAQ
What is a Flood Watch?
A Flood Watch means that conditions are favorable for flooding to occur. It does not guarantee that flooding will happen, but residents should be prepared and stay alert.
How much rain is expected during the Flood Watch period?
Forecasts predict 2 to 5 inches of rain in valley and coastal areas, and 5 to 10 inches in foothills and mountains, with rainfall rates up to 0.75 to 1.25 inches per hour.
Which areas are affected by the Flood Watch?
The Flood Watch includes Orange County Coastal and Inland Areas, Santa Ana Mountains and Foothills, Inland Empire, Coachella Valley, San Bernardino and Riverside County Valleys, and San Bernardino and Riverside County Mountains.
What should residents do during a Flood Watch?
Residents should stay informed by monitoring updates from the National Weather Service and local authorities, avoid flood-prone areas, prepare emergency kits, and secure property to mitigate potential damage.
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