San Diego Underwater: Heavy Rains Lead to Flash Floods Across the United States

Flash floods wreaked havoc across California, from San Diego to Guerneville, as torrential rain lashed the region, inundating homes, overturning cars, and prompting evacuations. 

The onslaught began in Guerneville, north of San Francisco, where a creek overflowed following more than 4 inches of rain in 24 hours, forcing the cancellation of local classes.

The storm intensified in Southern California, causing severe flooding in San Diego. Vehicles were swept away, and multiple neighborhoods, including Mountain View, Shelltown, and Southcrest, faced significant water levels. The torrential downpour led to dangerous conditions on highways, including Interstate 15.

San Diego resident Eddie Ochoa described a sudden and drastic transformation, with his sister’s car washed away within an hour, leaving parts of the city submerged. The region received an unusually high amount of rain, with 3 inches falling in National City over three hours, exceeding the typical monthly average of 2 inches.

Swift-water rescues were conducted in Spring Valley and Casa de Oro, with residents forced to wade through waist-high water to safety. 

San Diego Mayor Declares State of Emergency

 

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria declared a state of emergency, establishing shelters for displaced residents, while the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management issued evacuation warnings due to potential mud or debris flow.

In Texas, San Antonio faced flooding concerns, with firefighters investigating the possible displacement of five homeless individuals camping in drainage tunnels. 

Despite extensive searches, no individuals were found. Parts of San Antonio received up to 5 inches of rain, contributing to the broader weather pattern affecting Houston, Dallas, and various parts of north and east Texas. 

As the storm system extends its impact, freezing rain has gripped Arkansas, with forecasters warning of up to half an inch of ice coating parts of the state. 

Ice storm warnings are in effect for the Ozark Mountains and cities like Fayetteville and Fort Smith, while a small part of northeastern Oklahoma is also under an ice storm warning. 

The severe weather underscores the nationwide challenges posed by a combination of flooding, freezing rain, and extreme conditions.