August 25, 2025 Imperial County, California, USA A severe thunderstorm hit Imperial County Monday afternoon, bringing gusty winds, lightning, and a flash flood threat to several communities. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for the southwestern portion of the county, including El Centro, Brawley, Imperial, Houltville, Westmoreland, and Sealy. The heavy rains caused flash floods and destructive flooding on State Route 86 near Desert Elmore Ranch, near the Salton Sea, California's largest salt lake in the Colorado Desert. Multiple motorists were stranded as cars sank and mudslides swept through the area. Emergency crews reported dramatic scenes at the scene. Due to high water levels and large amounts of debris, Highway 86 is completely closed in both directions between Allen Road and State Route 78. - @ksenaaga