Big Sur Highway 1 Faces New Closures Amidst Renewed Storms
Carmel-Cambria route, recently reopened after three years of repairs, is again impacted by landslides and debris flows as another atmospheric river hits California.
BIG SUR, CA – February 17, 2026 – Just weeks after celebrating the full reopening of Highway 1 through Big Sur, California residents and travelers are once again facing disruptions as a new storm system brings heavy rainfall and landslides to the region. A section of the iconic highway closed Monday due to rockslides leaving “debris in the roadway at multiple locations,” according to the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).
Recent Reopening and Current Challenges
Highway 1, a vital economic corridor and scenic route connecting Carmel and Cambria, had fully reopened on January 14, 2026, nearly three months ahead of the initially projected March 30th date. Governor Gavin Newsom announced the reopening, highlighting the restoration of full travel access and a crucial lifeline for local businesses. The reopening followed extensive repairs to Regent’s Slide, which had been closed since January 2023 due to a major landslide triggered by atmospheric rivers. Further damage occurred in subsequent years, including a lane collapse near the Rocky Creek Bridge.
However, the respite was short-lived. The current storm, bringing a fresh wave of heavy showers and thunderstorms, has led to new rockslides and debris flows, forcing the closure of a portion of the highway.
Widespread Closures and Flood Watches
The impact extends beyond Big Sur. A stretch of Topanga Canyon Road in Los Angeles County remains closed due to at least eight debris flows. Much of Southern California is under a flood watch, with the National Weather Service forecasting continued torrential rains and the risk of flash flooding, rock and mudslides, and burn-scar debris flows.
Winter storm warnings are also in effect for mountainous areas, including the Grapevine along Interstate 5 and the Highway 14 corridor, where up to 12 inches of snow are possible at higher elevations.
Rainfall Totals and Forecast
As of Tuesday morning, February 16, 2026, most of Southern California had received over an inch of rain, with some locations exceeding 3 inches. Rocky Butte in San Luis Obispo County recorded the highest rainfall with 3.94 inches, followed by Stunt Ranch in Calabasas and Topanga Fire Station with 3.2 inches each. Downtown Los Angeles received 1.97 inches, while other areas reported varying amounts.
Forecasters predict total rainfall could reach up to 4 inches in coastal and valley areas and 8 inches in the mountains and foothills by the end of the week. Meteorologist Mike Wofford with the National Weather Service described the forecast as a “very soggy, wet period.”
Ongoing Monitoring and Updates
Caltrans crews are on scene assessing the damage and working to clear debris. Travelers are advised to check current road conditions before traveling and to be prepared for potential delays. The Big Sur Chamber of Commerce provides updates on Highway 1 conditions.