Archive · 28 Dec 2025
California Storms Bring Deaths, Damage Ahead of New Year
California has been hit by very strong storms that brought lots of rain and wind.
These storms caused four people to die, many homes to lose power, and even an avalanche at a ski resort.
The storms also made roads and airports very busy and caused mudslides.
While the weather is better for the weekend, more rain is expected starting on New Year's Eve.
The storms are especially bad in areas that had big fires last year because the ground can't absorb water well, making mudslides more likely.
The mountains got the most rain, and some places had over 17 inches.
The winds were also very strong, reaching over 100 miles per hour in some areas.
The storms are expected to be weaker for New Year's, but the rain could still cause problems.
California experienced severe storms over the past week, causing four deaths and widespread damage.
Heavy rainfall and strong winds led to flash floods, mudslides, power outages, and an avalanche at Mammoth Mountain.
Over 50,000 homes and businesses lost power, with the number decreasing to about 17,000 by Saturday morning.
Areas affected by wildfires last year are at higher risk for landslides due to hydrophobic soil.
More rain is expected starting New Year's Eve, though it is forecasted to be weaker than previous storms.
- Who
- Residents and visitors in California, including four fatalities and two injured ski patrollers
- What
- Severe storms causing flash floods, mudslides, power outages, and an avalanche
- When
- Over the past seven days, with a brief reprieve over the weekend and more rain expected starting New Year's Eve
- Where
- Across California, with significant impacts in Los Angeles, Northern California, and mountain areas
- Why
- Atmospheric rivers brought heavy rainfall and strong winds, exacerbated by recent wildfires and vulnerable soil conditions
- Deaths
- 4
- Rainfall
- More than 17 inches in some areas
- Wind Speeds
- Up to 110 mph
- Power Outages
- 50,000+ homes and businesses at peak
- Avalanche Injuries
- 2 ski patrollers hospitalized
- Snowfall at Mammoth Mountain
- 38 inches
- Snowfall at Heavenly Lake Tahoe
- 58 inches
- Upcoming Rain
- Up to 1.5 inches on New Year's Day