US: Flooding-related disruptions ongoing across parts of Santa Cruz County, CA, as of late Dec. 23

Evacuations are ongoing in Santa Cruz County, California, late Dec. 23 due to high surf and potential flooding. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued coastal flood and high surf warnings across the county. Evacuation orders are in effect for the Rio Del Mar, Beach Drive, and Las Olas areas; authorities are urging people to stay away from cliffs, the Santa Cruz Harbor, Santa Cruz Wharf, Capitola Wharf, and other low-lying coastal areas. The Capitola Village and Wharf are closed; officials have advised residents in the Venetian Court apartments to evacuate any water-facing units, and village residents in the 100 blocks of Esplanade and Monterey Avenue to shelter in place or voluntarily evacuate. Part of the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf has collapsed. Emergency crews have rescued two people. The Santa Cruz Harbor, Santa Cruz Boardwalk, and all surrounding beaches are closed until further notice. Several roads are closed due to significant flooding, including East Cliff Drive between 26th Avenue and Palisades Avenue, Marina Avenue at Aptos Beach Drive, Moosehead Drive, and Rio del Mar at Aptos Beach Drive.

Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying and riverine areas.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or landslides, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.