URGENT UPDATE: Rescuers are actively responding to emergencies in Wrightwood, California, as heavy rains trigger mudflows and flash floods, rendering Highway 2 impassable. Firefighters from San Bernardino County are working tirelessly to evacuate motorists and residents trapped by rapidly rising waters.
The situation unfolded early on Wednesday morning, December 24, 2025, when authorities began receiving distress calls from residents unable to leave their homes. Fire Department spokesman Chris Prater confirmed that while there are no immediate reports of injuries requiring hospitalization, the exact number of individuals affected remains unclear.
As emergency crews navigate treacherous conditions, Highway 2 has been closed from 3.3 miles east of Newcomb’s Ranch to Highway 138. Prater stated that the incident commander has requested significant resources, including four-wheel-drive fire engines, swift-water rescue teams, and bulldozers, to assist in evacuations and clear debris.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has issued an evacuation warning for the area, urging residents to heed safety measures. A detailed evacuation map is available on their website, reflecting the urgency of the situation.
In a tweet, the San Bernardino County Fire Department emphasized the severity of the flooding, stating, “Battalion Chief 141 has assumed command for heavy debris flows & flooding. Hwy 2 is impassable. Requesting additional engines and swift water rescue units.”
As the heavy rains continue, the National Weather Service warns of increased risks for flash flooding throughout the day, with predictions of scattered showers on Christmas Day before another round of rain arrives on Thursday night.
In response to the storm’s impact, Gov. Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency across San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, and Los Angeles counties. This declaration enables state resources to be mobilized rapidly and authorizes Caltrans to seek federal assistance for road repairs.
Residents are advised to stay off the roads and refrain from driving through moving water. For ongoing updates and safety alerts, residents can sign up at prepare.sbcounty.gov.
As conditions evolve, authorities urge everyone to remain vigilant and prepared. The community’s safety is paramount as rescue operations continue amidst these challenging circumstances.
