Gavin Newsom Declares State of Emergency in California Due to Winter Storm on Christmas

California Declares State of Emergency

Winter Storm Causes Evacuations

Massive Deployment of Resources

California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency this Wednesday in multiple areas of the state due to the impact of a powerful winter storm affecting several regions.

The measure aims to accelerate the response to extreme weather conditions that are already causing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and a significant increase in risks to the population.

State of Emergency in California Due to Winter Storm

FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY Declared Across Southern California

Eight Southern California counties are under a state of emergency as relentless heavy rain triggers flash flooding, evacuations, and life-threatening conditions, with flood warnings issued for Los Angeles and surrounding… pic.twitter.com/mHXlXFMFJV

— JohnTitor17 (@JTitor17) December 25, 2025

Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency in the counties of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Shasta, according to an official statement released by his office.

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In the message, the governor emphasized that the state is acting proactively to reduce potential damage and protect the most exposed communities.

Winter Storm in California Causes Alert Across Multiple Counties

RESCUE MISSION: Emergency response teams in Northern California rescued a stranded driver on Wednesday night after the recent storm flooded the roads. It is expected that parts of Northern California will see an additional 3 to 5 inches of rain. pic.twitter.com/4wEydxlwRi

— FOX Weather (@foxweather) December 25, 2025

“California is acting early and decisively to get ahead of these dangerous winter storms,” Newsom said in the statement.

The governor noted that his administration is working in close coordination with local authorities to keep residents in affected areas safe.

Southern California is facing intense rainfall and strong winds, increasing the risk of flash flooding, landslides, and the rapid swelling of streams and rivers.

These conditions have led authorities to activate emergency protocols and reinforce monitoring in high-risk areas.

Risks From Rainfall and Prior Wildfires

NOTICE
A powerful “atmospheric river” has been hitting California since yesterday. Millions of people were forced to rethink Christmas Eve travel plans. Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for several Southern California counties due to the storm’s impact… pic.twitter.com/1NPGfU5GMB

— Geól. Sergio Almazán (@chematierra) December 25, 2025

Areas affected earlier this year by wildfires face additional threats due to persistent rainfall.

According to the statement, there is an increased risk of mudslides and debris flows in locations where soil was weakened by previous fires.

Given this situation, local authorities issued evacuation orders for homes located in vulnerable zones.

Residents were also advised to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel while hazardous conditions persist.

Deployment of Resources and Call to the Public

Newsom ordered state agencies to deploy emergency response resources throughout California.

Mobilized resources include 55 fire engines, ten swift-water rescue teams, and more than 300 personnel to support communities and local governments.

The state of emergency declaration allows for the rapid mobilization of state resources and the possible deployment of the California National Guard if needed.

The governor urged residents to follow emergency officials’ guidance and avoid flooded roadways.

The winter storm—driven by a series of atmospheric rivers—is shaping up to be one of the strongest to hit during the Christmas period.

The system has already impacted Northern California, where one death linked to flooding has been reported, and risks are expected to increase in the San Francisco Bay Area and the Central Coast as the week progresses.