Feb 6, 1998
An exceptionally strong westerly jet-stream aloft, and a deep upper-level trough of low pressure off the coast, steered a barrage of weather systems through southern California for several days. The action started off with high winds and then heavy rain on the sixth. Rainfall up to three inches caused widespread flooding, stranding motorists, and resulting in sporadic road closures. The most serious flooding occurred in Newport Beach and Irvine during the early afternoon. Several Newport s
Source: NOAA National Weather Service Storm Events Database (event 5631300). Narrative written by NWS staff at the time of the event.
This event is one of many recorded floods in Orange County. See the full FEMA flood zone map, NFIP claim totals, and disaster history for the area.