San Bernardino Daily Briefing: Storm Impacts, Safety Alerts, and County Warnings
San Bernardino, CA — February 17, 2026 — Winter storms snarl mountain travel as county officials warn residents about tax check fraud and a deadly local crash.
San Bernardino, CA — February 17, 2026 — A powerful winter storm is pounding local mountains, while county officials issue fresh safety warnings and investigators identify a man killed in a San Bernardino crash.
Heavy snow slams San Bernardino Mountains
A slow-moving winter storm continues to blanket the San Bernardino Mountains with heavy snow, making travel difficult on key routes into popular resort communities. Forecasters report several inches of accumulation at elevations above 5,000 feet, with totals potentially reaching well over a foot on the highest peaks through Wednesday.
Drivers heading toward Running Springs, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and nearby areas are facing chain controls, slick roads and periods of low visibility. Caltrans checkpoints are in place on major approaches, and motorists are urged to carry proper chains, pack emergency supplies and be prepared for long delays or sudden closures as the storm evolves.
The National Weather Service has a winter storm warning in effect for the San Bernardino County mountains through at least midday Wednesday, with strong winds and blowing snow expected to keep conditions hazardous.
County warns of check fraud targeting property tax payments
As the second installment of property taxes comes due next month, San Bernardino County officials are warning residents to be on guard against check fraud and other scams. County tax and treasury staff say they have seen attempts to alter or divert mailed payments, as well as fake notices and unofficial payment offers.
Homeowners are being encouraged to use secure payment options, such as the county’s official online portal, in-person payments at authorized offices or carefully addressed mailed checks. Residents are also urged to scrutinize any notices that appear to demand immediate payment, and to verify details directly with county offices before sending money or sharing personal information.
Anyone who suspects they have been targeted by a property tax or real estate scam is asked to report it to county authorities so investigators can track patterns and pursue potential criminal cases.
Victim identified in fatal Kendall Drive crash
Investigators have identified the man killed in a recent crash on Kendall Drive in San Bernardino as Rafael Cruz Sr. According to early reports, the collision involved multiple vehicles and left Cruz with fatal injuries despite emergency response at the scene.
Authorities are continuing to review evidence and witness statements to determine what led up to the crash, including factors such as speed, weather and driver impairment. Family members and friends are mourning Cruz as they wait for a fuller account of the circumstances.
Police are asking anyone who may have seen the collision or has dashcam footage from the area around the time of the crash to contact investigators to help complete the timeline.
Staying prepared
With storms still moving through the region and tax deadlines approaching, county leaders are urging residents to check emergency kits, sign up for local alerts and use only trusted channels for financial transactions with public agencies.
Sources
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/snow-impacting-highways-san-bernardino-212535546.html
- https://www.sbsun.com/2026/02/15/winter-storm-warning-for-san-bernardino-county-mountains-from-monday-to-thursday/
- https://www.vvng.com/san-bernardino-county-warns-of-check-fraud-ahead-of-property-tax-deadline/
- https://californiainjuryaccidentlawyer.com/rafael-cruz-sr-killed-in-crash-at-kendall-drive-in-san-bernardino/