ENVIRONMENT

Southern California Storms Cause Flooding, LAX Ground Stop

PUBLISHED Feb 16, 2026, 3:34 PM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 9

Center 67%

Right 33%

Sources: 9

LOS ANGELES. Federal and local agencies warned residents after a powerful winter storm moved across Southern California Monday, prompting a ground stop at Los Angeles International Airport and flash flood warnings. Officials issued evacuation warnings for burn-scarred neighborhoods and a wind advisory from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., while forecasts called for 1–3 inches of rain in coastal and valley areas and 2–5 inches in mountains with substantial mountain snow. Authorities reported flooded roads and several stalled vehicles; a second storm is expected Tuesday night into Wednesday and a third on Thursday. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Last year's deadly wildfires left burn-scarred slopes vulnerable to runoff and debris flows.
Monday: First and strongest storm moved through, prompting LAX ground stop and flash flood warnings.
Monday afternoon: NWS issued wind, high surf, and flood advisories; evacuation warnings for burn-scar areas issued.
Tuesday night–Wednesday: Second storm expected with flood watch in effect for parts of LA County.
Thursday: Third storm forecasted; models show tapering to a cooler, clearer weekend after storms.

News Intelligence

These storms can disrupt your daily routine. If you live in Southern California, expect possible road closures, flight delays, and power outages. Check your local news for evacuation warnings, especially if you're near burn-scar areas.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 9
Right Leaning:: 3
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6

Who Benefited

Emergency management agencies, weather services, and airport operators benefited by issuing warnings, coordinating responses, and reducing immediate risks to life and infrastructure.

Who Impacted

Residents in burn-scarred areas, commuters, air travelers, and motorists suffered displacement, travel disruptions, property damage risks, and stalled vehicles during heavy rainfall.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 9
Right Leaning:: 3
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 67%, Right 33%

Who Benefited

Emergency management agencies, weather services, and airport operators benefited by issuing warnings, coordinating responses, and reducing immediate risks to life and infrastructure.

Who Impacted

Residents in burn-scarred areas, commuters, air travelers, and motorists suffered displacement, travel disruptions, property damage risks, and stalled vehicles during heavy rainfall.