Santa Barbara County is expected to experience winter weather conditions from February 23 to February 25, with the possibility of extreme cold temperatures, snow at higher elevations, continued wind, localized flooding, and isolated thunderstorms throughout the county. However, evacuations are not currently being ordered, and public safety officials will continue to monitor the situation closely to determine if any protective measures are necessary.
The National Weather Service has released several weather statements for Santa Barbara County.
- A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the county's interior mountains from 4 a.m. on February 22 until 4 a.m. on February 24.
- A Winter Weather Advisory is in place for the Cuyama Valley and the Santa Ynez mountain range from February 23 until 10 p.m. on February 24.
- The county's interior mountains are under a Blizzard Warning from 4 a.m. on February 24 until 4 p.m. on February 25.
- Furthermore, several Flood Watches have been issued for the county's interior mountains, the Santa Ynez mountains, and coastal areas from Point Conception through Carpinteria, which are generally in effect from 4 a.m. on February 24 to 6 p.m. on February 25.
It is important to note that during winter storms, road conditions can quickly become hazardous, making travel difficult or impossible. Drivers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel if possible.