Good morning, Ventura.

Grocery stores statewide are changing holiday hours as many close early today and will be closed on Christmas; Albertsons, Ralphs, and Vons will stay open until 10 p.m. today (with limited pharmacy access) while Target and Trader Joe’s also alter hours (check local listings for precise times).

The Ventura County Emergency Office ordered an evacuation for Ventura Beach at 6:00 p.m. today because of upcoming storms and issued warnings for the Mountain Fire burn scar, Matilija Canyon, and nearby areas + a hazardous advisory for Creek Road until 6:00 p.m. Christmas Eve.

Light rain began Tuesday in Santa Barbara where holiday shoppers enjoyed the winter feel.

Big Wave Daves will bring remaining trees — a boost for last-minute buyers — to their Ventura location near Pacific View Mall for Christmas Eve while first responders urge drivers to avoid wet roads.

Eight years after the Thomas Fire destroyed hundreds of homes, Ventura residents have slowly rebuilt their properties with records showing 81%+ of city homes now restored.

Survivors like Kat Merrick finally received permits to move back, though empty lots in rural areas still mark ongoing delays.