Major Storm to Hit Santa Barbara County This Week

Santa Barbara County residents are bracing for a major storm expected to arrive on Monday, October 13, and continue through Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

In an X post on October 13, 2025, ReadySBC.org stated, “A major storm is expected in #SantaBarbaraCounty (10/13 – 10/15).”

It also warned of possible flooding in low-lying areas.

🌧️ A major storm is expected in #SantaBarbaraCounty (10/13 – 10/15).
📢 Be prepared for possible flooding in low-lying areas, strong winds, hail, lightning, dangerous flash flooding, and shallow debris flows in and near burn areas.
📍 Info: https://t.co/iGQy84pGay.#ReadySBC pic.twitter.com/ztMWYUNslq

— SBCountyOEM (@SBCountyOEM) October 13, 2025

According to the National Weather Service, the following conditions are possible countywide:

• Hail and lightning
• Brief, heavy rainfall
• Dangerous flash flooding
• Flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds
• Shallow debris flows for locations in and beneath recent wildfire burn areas, including the Gifford Fire and Lake Fire.

Starting the afternoon of October 13, a cold front will move into the Central Coast, bringing clouds that will soon turn to rain. The storm is expected to reach northern San Luis Obispo County early in the afternoon, KSBY reported. The highest rainfall totals are expected over the high peaks and ridges of the Santa Lucia Mountains and Los Padres National Forest, with significant rain expected across the entire region.

Although no evacuation orders have been issued, the National Weather Service advises that anyone who feels unsafe or anticipates hazardous conditions should leave before the rain starts, rather than waiting for an official notice.

This comes a few weeks after Edhat reported on September 24, 2025, that a thunderstorm with lightning strikes hit Santa Barbara and much of the Central Coast.

Goleta Readies Infrastructure Ahead of Rainy Weather

Meanwhile, the City of Goleta’s Public Works team has stepped up preparations ahead of the rainy season.

In an X post on October 13, 2025, the City of Goleta said, “As October arrives and the first signs of fall begin to show, our dedicated team is already preparing for the rainy season — long before the first drops hit the ground.”

🌧️ Public Works in Action!
Public Works is hard at work across Goleta, keeping our City safe, maintained, and moving forward. As October arrives and the first signs of fall begin to show, our dedicated team is already preparing for the rainy season — long before the first drops… pic.twitter.com/JVAnvCkGAQ

— City of Goleta (@CityOfGoleta) October 13, 2025

The post further added that crews are clearing storm drains, culverts, and catch basins, grading ditches, and setting up erosion-control barriers.

Officials said these proactive measures are being carried out to prevent flooding and help Goleta run smoothly through the rainy season.

Precautionary Measures and Safety Tips

According to the National Weather Service, residents should take the following precautions:

• Stay away from rivers, creeks, streams, recent wildfire burn areas, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations.
• Move to high ground immediately during a flash flood warning.
• In a Tornado warning, go to an interior room on the bottom floor and stay away from windows.
• Avoid driving at night or during heavy rain.
• Stay away from beach areas as the storm could trigger erosion along bluffs in the county.
• Charge critical electronic devices in case an unexpected power outage occurs.
• Secure outdoor items such as umbrellas, sports equipment, and furniture.
• Help those who may need assistance, including the older people, children, and pets.
• If you hear thunder, go indoors. Wait 30 minutes after the storm has passed before resuming outdoor activities.

Residents should remain vigilant as conditions can change quickly. Residents are encouraged to:

• Monitor the weather
• Prepare and protect their home now
• Plan evacuation routes and identify safe destinations
• If you feel unsafe during the rainfall, shelter in place in your home by gathering your family and pets in the innermost room of your house, preferably on the top floor if you live in a multi-story home.
• Do not attempt to drive at night or while it is raining, as roads may be damaged or your car may be swept away by moving water or debris.

Public safety officials are monitoring the incoming storm in coordination with the National Weather Service. They will continue to assess whether protective actions, such as an evacuation warning, evacuation order, or shelter in place, are necessary.