UPDATE (8:15 p.m.) - Highway 166 near Wasioja has been reopened after closing in both directions because of flooding and mudslides, according to the California Highway Patrol.
A large amount of rain in a short period of time sent debris down natural water channels off the side of the roadway.
The debris clogged a culvert running under 166, causing the highway to flood.
Caltrans responded to the issue and the road is now open, but a flash flood warning is in place through the area.
Crews have put up cones to caution drivers of a lack of shoulder.
Caltrans says workers will be out on Friday to make repairs.
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ORIGINAL STORY (4:47 p.m.) - The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for far southeastern San Luis Obispo and far north-central Santa Barbara counties.
As of 4:30 p.m., flash flooding was reported from thunderstorms in the Cuyama Valley area. The California Highway Patrol was reporting flooding in the area of Highway 166 and Wasioja Road with multiple vehicles stuck.
The National Weather Service reports that between two and four inches of rain have already fallen with an expected rainfall rate of one to two inches in an hour.
Flash Flood Warning continues for San Luis Obispo County, CA, Santa Barbara County, CA until 7:00 PM PDT pic.twitter.com/lT6GrOEPMW
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) September 19, 2024
The Flash Flood Warning is in effect until 7 p.m.
CHP and Caltrans were closing Highway 166 between Highway 101 and Highway 33.
A Flash Flood Advisory is also in effect for north-central San Luis Obispo County.
Visit KSBY's Microclimate Weather section for the latest forecast.
