UPDATE: Emergency responders are actively rescuing stranded motorists and residents in Wrightwood, California, as mudflows and fast-moving water have completely cut off access via Highway 2. The situation escalated early Wednesday morning, December 24, 2025, prompting immediate action from San Bernardino County Fire crews.
Chris Prater, a spokesperson for the Fire Department, confirmed that there are currently no reported injuries requiring hospitalization. However, the exact number of individuals affected remains unclear, raising concerns over their safety as they remain trapped in their homes. Residents have been calling 911 for assistance, with reports of significant debris obstructing roads.
Highway 2 is officially closed from 3.3 miles east of Newcomb’s Ranch to Highway 138, according to the Caltrans website. The incident commander has requested specialized rescue resources, including four-wheel-drive fire engines, swift-water rescue teams, bulldozers, and urban search-and-rescue units, indicating the gravity of the flood conditions.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has issued an evacuation warning for the area and provided evacuation maps on its website. As the flooding situation evolves, Battalion Chief 141 has taken command of operations, focusing on heavy debris flows and flooding that have rendered Highway 2 impassable.
“Crews are assisting with evacuating homes that are being immediately impacted,”
Prater stated, emphasizing the urgency of the rescue efforts.
The National Weather Service warns of continued moderate to heavy rain, which is expected to increase the risk of flash flooding in the region. Rainfall intensity is projected to decrease by Wednesday night, but scattered showers will persist into Christmas Day, with another round of rain anticipated Thursday night into Friday.
In response to the ongoing storm, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, and Los Angeles counties. This declaration mobilizes state resources and authorizes Caltrans to seek federal assistance for repairs to damaged infrastructure.
Residents and travelers are urged to avoid driving through moving water and to stay informed by signing up for alerts at prepare.sbcounty.gov. As rescue efforts continue, the situation remains fluid, with emergency personnel working tirelessly to ensure the safety of all affected individuals.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The situation is critical, and immediate action is being taken to address the ongoing challenges posed by the severe weather conditions.
