Rain falls steadily at the Santa Barbara Mission on Dec. 25. The region has had two major storms already and a New Year's storm pushed the city over 100% of its normal annual rainfall amount, with 19.37 inches as of Jan. 1.
Rain falls steadily at the Santa Barbara Mission on Dec. 25. The region has had two major storms already and a New Year's storm pushed the city over 100% of its normal annual rainfall amount, with 19.37 inches as of Jan. 1. Credit: Peter Hartmann / Noozhawk photo

The New Year’s Eve storm caused some soggy celebrations in Santa Barbara County, but no major incidents were reported.

Santa Barbara — with 19.37 inches — surpassed 100% of its normal water-year rainfall total with this latest storm, and the county overall hit 94% as of Thursday.

The latest rainfall totals as of Thursday morning were: 0.92 inches in Buellton, 0.6 inches in Carpinteria, 1.09 inches in Goleta, 0.58 inches in Lompoc, 1.15 inches in Santa Barbara, 0.46 inches in Santa Maria, and 0.63 inches in Santa Ynez. 

Some foothill and mountain areas, including San Marcos Pass, had more than 2.5 inches.

Estimated rainfall timing for Thursday through Monday.
Estimated rainfall timing for Thursday through Monday. Credit: National Weather Service photo

A flood watch ended early Thursday as skies started to clear over the county. NWS forecasters expect a break in the rain until late Friday, when another storm hits the region. 

The chance of rain goes from 10% Friday night to 80% on Saturday and Sunday, the NWS said. 

Even minor storms could cause flooding, downed trees and other impacts now since the ground is so saturated, National Weather Service officials warn. 

New Year's Eve revelers bring umbrellas to Solvang's Copenhagen Countdown event Wednesday afternoon.
New Year’s Eve revelers bring umbrellas to Solvang’s Copenhagen Countdown event Wednesday afternoon. Credit: Rebecca Caraway / Noozhawk photo

Beach Hazards Statement 

The NWS issued a beach hazards statement for Santa Barbara County through Sunday afternoon, with a forecast of dangerous rip currents and breaking waves due to elevated surf. 

“There is an increased risk of ocean drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Waves can wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore,” the NWS says. 

Peak high tides were expected between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. on Thursday, shifting to 7 p.m.-11 a.m. by Sunday, the NWS says. Coastal flood advisories could be issued for the weekend due to swells on top of high tides. 

Check the latest weather-related forecasts and alerts from the NWS here.

The Green Flash sailboat lies grounded in the surf at Santa Barbara’s East Beach early on Jan. 1.
The Green Flash sailboat lies grounded in the surf at Santa Barbara’s East Beach early on Jan. 1. Credit: Veronica Juarez photo

Noozhawk executive editor Giana Magnoli can be reached at gmagnoli@noozhawk.com.