Published on December 27, 2025
San Diego has now joined Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Shasta, Riverside, and Orange in experiencing widespread flooding due to a powerful storm sweeping through Southern California. This severe weather has led the Canadian government to issue a travel advisory for Canadian tourists heading to the US, advising heightened caution in these affected areas. The flooding, along with the risk of mudslides and road closures, is causing significant travel disruptions, making it essential for tourists to stay updated on local conditions and follow official warnings.
Travelers from Canada to the United States are being urged to take extra precautions following a new safety advisory issued by the Government of Canada on December 24. While the advisory recommends “normal security precautions” for most areas, special attention is required for those traveling to Southern California due to ongoing severe weather conditions.

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A powerful storm over the Christmas period has unleashed widespread devastation in California, causing catastrophic flooding, rockslides, and mudslides. Several regions, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Shasta counties, have been particularly hard-hit. With the situation worsening, local authorities have declared a state of emergency in multiple areas, prompting evacuations to protect residents and visitors.
Impacts of the Storm

The storm has severely affected major areas in Southern California, with some of the heaviest rain recorded in years. Flooding in these regions has led to significant disruptions, including road closures, evacuations, and extensive damage to infrastructure, such as bridges and highways. Several of the state’s busiest transportation routes are currently impassable, making travel within these areas particularly hazardous.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that flooding risks will escalate as additional rainfall is expected throughout the week. The NWS has stressed the importance of avoiding flooded roads and staying clear of creeks, streams, and low-lying areas that are prone to flash flooding. Travelers are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid becoming trapped or stranded.

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Service Interruptions and Travel Delays
In addition to the immediate risks posed by the storm, there are widespread concerns over the disruption of essential services. Power outages, water shortages, and damage to telecommunications infrastructure have been reported in affected areas, which could lead to significant interruptions in local services. Furthermore, the storm’s impact is expected to affect essential services such as emergency medical care, public transportation, and food and water supplies.
Travelers planning to visit California should be prepared for delays or cancellations at airports, as well as disruptions in other modes of transportation, including buses, trains, and car rentals. Given the uncertainty surrounding road conditions, travelers are strongly encouraged to check their flight status, monitor local weather reports, and make contingency plans in case of significant delays or service interruptions.
Safety Measures for Travelers
Canadian visitors currently in California or planning to travel to the affected regions should take additional safety precautions. The most critical recommendation is to avoid areas known to be at risk of flooding and landslides. Travelers should remain updated on local weather forecasts, listen to local news outlets for emergency updates, and follow evacuation orders if issued.
The Government of Canada advises that Canadian travelers should exercise caution in flood-prone zones and stay alert to potential dangers. Authorities have warned that floodwaters can rise quickly, making areas near streams and creeks particularly hazardous. Even a small amount of rain can exacerbate flooding conditions, so staying informed about the weather is essential.
Travelers should also pay attention to infrastructure disruptions, such as power outages, which could affect vital services like medical care, telecommunications, and emergency response teams. In some areas, these interruptions could last for several days, so it’s important to prepare for delays and difficulties in accessing essential services.
What You Should Know Before You Go
Though the advisory for the U.S. remains generally unchanged with a recommendation for “normal security precautions,” travelers heading to Southern California should take extra care in light of the ongoing storm. With potential flooding, mudslides, and further heavy rainfall expected, travelers must be prepared for sudden changes in conditions, including road closures, transportation delays, and infrastructure damage.
If you plan to visit California in the coming days, it’s critical to stay up-to-date on the latest weather warnings, local advisories, and the status of essential services. Keep a close watch on news sources and weather channels, and be ready to adjust your travel plans if needed. In the event of dangerous conditions, avoid non-essential travel and follow the guidance of local authorities.
Canadian travelers should also remain mindful of possible travel disruptions, particularly those traveling by air or road. Delays, cancellations, and limited access to essential services may affect the flow of travel, so maintaining flexibility and preparedness is key to navigating the challenges posed by this severe weather event.
San Diego has joined Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Shasta, Riverside, and Orange in widespread flooding due to a powerful storm, prompting a travel advisory for Canadian tourists heading to the U.S. to exercise caution in these affected areas.
As this storm continues to impact Southern California, Canadian travelers are strongly advised to take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The situation is fluid, and the Government of Canada will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

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Tags: Canada travel news, Los Angeles, travel alert, Travel News

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