High Surf and Strong Storm System to Impact Santa Barbara Through Tuesday

The County of Santa Barbara has issued a notice for a significant storm on November 16, 2025, following a National Weather Service (NWS) advisory. The system is expected to impact the region through Tuesday,  November 18, 2025. 

According to the NWS, steady rain is expected through midday Monday, followed by scattered showers continuing into Tuesday. Forecasters also note a 20% chance of thunderstorms, which may produce brief but heavy downpours.

Roadway flooding, small-stream flooding, and additional mud and rock slides are possible, particularly in burn scars and areas affected during previous storms. Snow levels may fall to 5,000-6,000 feet by Monday night, with one to three inches expected above 6,000 feet.

The County of Santa Barbara also reports the potential for heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and lightning. These conditions may lead to flooding in low-lying areas, along with mudslides, rockslides, and shallow debris flows. 

Los Padres National Forest gates and roads in burn scars and sensitive areas will be closed due to the storm and will reopen after safety inspections are completed.

Residents are urged to travel with caution during the storm as roads can be damaged or difficult to drive on. Highway 166, in particular, may experience debris flows, flooding and road closures. 

Officials say no evacuations have been issued at this time. However, residents who feel unsafe are encouraged to leave before rainfall begins rather than wait for an official order.

🌧️More rain is expected in #SantaBarbaraCounty tonight and thru Tues 11/18.
⚠️Brief, heavy downpours possible that may lead to additional flooding in roads and low-lying areas, minor mud/rock slides, and shallow debris flows in recent burn areas.
📍Info: https://t.co/YqDKvUy8WU pic.twitter.com/uYJAJYXUS7

— SBCountyOEM (@SBCountyOEM) November 16, 2025

NWS Issues High Surf Advisory

The NWS has issued a high surf advisory for the Santa Barbara County Central Coast beaches to be in effect from 2 p.m. on Monday through 10 a.m. Tuesday. 

Large breaking waves of 7 to 11 feet, with some sets up to 13 feet, may create dangerous rip currents and hazardous conditions for swimmers, surfers, and small boats. Beachgoers are urged to avoid the water and stay off rock jetties. 

The NWS warns that strong waves may wash people off rocks and beaches, and urges beachgoers to stay out of the water or to remain close to lifeguard towers. The agency also advised to avoid rock jetties due to the risk of being knocked into the ocean.

Safety and Preparedness

Officials urged the residents to monitor the weather, prepare their homes, and have a plan in case conditions worsen. Strong winds are anticipated, which could lead to power outages. 

If a flash flood Warning is issued, people should stay off roads and move to higher ground or the innermost room of their home. During a Tornado Warning, move to the lowest interior room away from windows.

Thunderstorms may develop at any time; if thunder is heard, move indoors and wait 30 minutes after it passes before going outside.