Southern California Storm Coverage: Rain, Snow, and Mudslide Risks - Feb 17, 2026

Second Winter Storm Impacts Southern California

• 🌧️ A second powerful winter storm is impacting Southern California, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and snow to local mountains.
• ⚠️ Residents are bracing for potential mudslides, flooding, downed trees, and power lines, especially after recent heavy downpours.

Overnight Storm Intensification and Mountain Snow

• ⚡ The rain is expected to intensify overnight, with thunderstorms bringing heavy downpours, gusty winds, and a possibility of hail.
• ❄️ Significant snowfall is anticipated in the mountains, with the I-5 corridor (The Grapevine) expected to receive 2-4 inches of snow.
• 💨 Winds are predicted to be strong, ranging from 20-30 mph with gusts up to 55-60 mph, creating dangerous driving conditions.

Road Conditions and Closures

• 🚗 Heavy rain is causing slick roadways and standing water, particularly in areas like the San Fernando Valley and Ventura County.
• 🚧 Road closures are in effect for areas near burn scars, including a 3-mile stretch of Topanga Canyon Boulevard, due to fears of mud and debris flows.
• ⚠️ Drivers are urged to slow down and avoid driving through flooded intersections.

Storm Impact and Public Preparedness

• 🌲 Storm-related damage includes a massive tree falling and crushing a car in Woodland Hills.
• 📢 Local officials are reminding residents to sign up for emergency alerts and notifications to stay informed about ongoing storm impacts.
• 🏔️ Despite the weather, some skiers and snowboarders headed to Wrightwood to take advantage of fresh powder, bracing for wind gusts.

Future Forecast and Perspective

• 🌦️ The current rain is expected to continue through at least 6 AM Wednesday, with an additional 1 to 1.5 inches possible, though more rain is on the way by Thursday.
• ☀️ A brief break in the rain is expected Wednesday afternoon before more precipitation arrives.
• 🗽 Visitors from New York found the Southern California weather relatively mild compared to their home state's conditions.