Overview
Relentless storms hammered the U.S. West Coast on December 20, 2025, prompting a Flood Watch for Northern California alongside parts of Washington and Oregon. ABC News reported the alert at 11:21 AM ET, noting strong winds shaking power lines and a major weather pattern shift heading into Christmas week[1].
Key Developments
- Northern California issued Flood Watch December 20, 2025 at 11:21 AM, joining Washington and Oregon regions as storms intensified[1].
- Strong winds disrupted power across affected areas, with cross-country storm systems snarling holiday travelholiday" class="inline-tag-link">holiday travel on December 19[1].
- ABC News meteorologists described the event as a 'major pattern change for Christmas week,' with potential for flash flooding and wind damage[1].
Analysis
| Factor | Current Status | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Economic | Power outages from winds hit thousands; travel delays at major airports | Holiday commerce losses mount; supply chain disruptions into December 25 |
| Political | FEMA monitors West Coast response | Federal aid requests likely if flooding escalates |
| Social | Evacuation warnings in low-lying areas | Public safety risks rise; Christmas gatherings threatened |
Expert Reactions
'Northern California joins parts of Washington and Oregon under a Flood Watch,' stated ABC News weather team on December 20 at 11:21 AM[1]. U.S. Attorney Leah Foley noted related preparedness in regional briefings, though focused on other incidents[1].
What's Next
National Weather Service to update Flood Watch alerts by December 21 morning; storm pattern expected to persist through Christmas Eve[1].