The recent extreme weather conditions in California have brought forth a rare threat: tornadoes. On December 25th, 2025, a tornado warning was issued for areas in Los Angeles County, including San Bernardino and Wrightwood, as heavy rains and thunderstorms continue to batter the region.
The National Weather Service has extended a tornado warning for the area, urging residents to stay weather-ready, listen to local news, and tune into a NOAA Weather Radio for updates. The warning follows a series of severe thunderstorms that have been sweeping across the state, bringing with them the potential for flash floods and mudslides.
The threat of tornadoes in California is rare, especially during the winter months, but the current weather patterns have created conditions favorable for their formation. A small chance of tornado development was reported in parts of Southern California, particularly in areas like Alhambra, Pasadena, and San Gabriel.
The tornado warning for Santa Cruz County, which includes Scotts Valley and Capitola, has been in effect since Thursday at 12:19 p.m. and is expected to last until 1:00 p.m. This warning is part of a broader weather pattern that has seen severe thunderstorms with radar-indicated rotation heading north at 35 mph towards these coastal communities.
In addition to the tornado warnings, the region is grappling with significant rainfall, which has led to flash floods and isolated mudslides. The storm is expected to persist through the holidays, with forecasters warning that the heavy rain could be deadly.
This event highlights the increasing severity of weather events in California, which is experiencing a mix of flash floods, isolated tornadoes, and mudslides. The ongoing tornado threat underscores the importance of staying vigilant and prepared during such extreme weather conditions.
Residents and authorities are advised to remain weather-ready, continue listening to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay updated about any tornado watches and warnings, and follow safety guidelines to protect themselves and their properties.
As the weather continues to be unpredictable, it is crucial for residents in affected areas to stay informed and prepared. The combination of heavy rain, potential tornadoes, and the risk of flash floods and mudslides poses a significant challenge for the region.
