Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Rain and Gusty Winds to Start 2026 as California’s Central Coast Enters Multi-Day Wet Pattern

Saturated soils are driving elevated flood risk, with watches posted through New Year’s Day.

Overview

  • The National Weather Service has a Flood Watch in effect through 10 p.m. Jan. 1 for parts of the Central Coast.
  • A Wind Advisory runs through 3 p.m. Jan. 1, with southeast winds of 15–25 mph and gusts of 35–45 mph expected.
  • Forecasters expect isolated showers on New Year’s Day and into Friday, followed by additional bands of rain through the middle of next week.
  • Rainfall totals are projected to be lower than the last storm but to accumulate over several days, keeping localized flooding possible.
  • A brief lull is possible around the New Year’s Eve countdown, then a stronger band is forecast early New Year’s morning, with temperatures near seasonal levels.