San Diego experienced historic flooding on New Year’s Day as 2.07 inches of rain fell in just a few hours, exceeding the previous January 1 record of 1.6 inches set in 1855. The deluge made the day the city’s 15th-wettest on record, delivering roughly a month’s worth of average precipitation in a short span.

Video footage shows severe urban flooding across major streets, including India Street, where vehicles became stranded in knee-deep water. Some vehicles were swept into barriers, highlighting the dangers the storm posed to drivers and the vulnerability of infrastructure in low-lying areas.

City officials urged residents to exercise caution, noting that the intensity of the rainfall overwhelmed drainage systems and created significant hazards for commuters and pedestrians. Emergency services were deployed to assist stranded motorists and respond to localized flooding incidents.

Meteorologists emphasized that while San Diego regularly experiences wet winters, the volume and rapid accumulation of rain on New Year’s Day was exceptional. The storm underscores the importance of preparedness for extreme weather events, especially in urban centers where drainage and traffic systems are easily stressed.

The record-breaking rainfall serves as a stark reminder of the city’s susceptibility to sudden, intense storms and the potential for urban flooding even in areas typically considered dry for extended periods.