2025-12-26T16:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE...A portion of Southwest California, including the following areas, Apple and Lucerne Valleys, San Bernardino County Mountains and portions of the northern Inland Empire adjacent to the San Bernardino County Mountains. * WHEN...From late tonight through Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Low-water crossings may be flooded. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Extensive heavy rainfall in the San Bernardino Mountains that resulted in instances of flash flooding and debris flow in the mountains and adjacent drainages in the northern Inland Empire and High Desert yesterday have saturated the soils and drainage banks. An additional 1-3 inches (and locally up to 4 inches) of rainfall is expected in the mountains tonight. While rainfall rates will be generally lighter than yesterday (closer to 0.2-0.5"/hr), the saturated soils and drainage banks will likely be more susceptible to flash flooding with the additional rainfall. Snow levels will generally be around 7500-8000ft for this secondary round of precipitation tonight and Friday. - Https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Summary
Spanning an area of approximately 160 square miles (414 square kilometers), the mountain offers a challenging yet rewarding mountaineering experience for enthusiasts. During the winter season, San Gorgonio receives a significant amount of snowfall, with snowpack depths ranging from 5 to 15 feet (1.5 to 4.6 meters) depending on the year. This makes it an ideal destination for winter mountaineering and backcountry skiing.
Several creeks and rivers are fed by the runoff from San Gorgonio's snowpack. The Whitewater and Santa Ana Rivers, as well as Vivian Creek and Mill Creek, are among the waterways that benefit from the mountain's snowmelt. These water sources provide essential freshwater supply to the surrounding regions and support a diverse ecosystem.
San Gorgonio takes its name from Saint Gorgonius, a Roman soldier who was martyred for his Christian beliefs. The mountain has also been referred to as "Old Greyback" due to its distinct gray appearance and prominence in the area. While there aren't significant legends or lore specific to San Gorgonio, its rich history includes being a sacred place for Native American tribes and serving as a training ground for World War II soldiers. Today, it remains an iconic peak for mountaineers seeking a challenging ascent and awe-inspiring views of the Southern California landscape.
Weather Forecast
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Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Mineshaft Flat
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High Creek Camp
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Big Tree
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Fish Creek Saddle
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Halfway Camp
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Red Rock Flat
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Mill Creek
Santa Ana River
Big Bear Lake