Irvine Daily: Police Warning, Storm Impacts, and Camp Planning

Irvine, CA – February 19, 2026 – Here is a quick look at what’s happening around the city today, from public safety alerts to community events at the Great Park.

Police warn families about ‘senior assassin’ game

Irvine police are urging parents and students to be cautious about a popular high school game known as ‘senior assassin.’ The game involves students trying to ‘tag’ one another using water guns and gel blasters, some of which closely resemble real handguns.

Officers say the concern is not the game itself, but the realistic look of many of the toy weapons. In a public message, the department highlighted how easily a bystander or responding officer could mistake a toy for a firearm, especially at night or from a distance.

Police are asking families to talk with teens about choosing brightly colored toys, avoiding public spaces where the game could alarm others, and listening if officers issue commands during any misunderstanding. Local schools are also being encouraged to remind seniors that end-of-year traditions should not put anyone at risk.

Overnight storms roll through Irvine area

Residents across Irvine woke up to reports of severe weather after a strong band of thunderstorms moved through northern Orange County early Wednesday morning. The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning that included Irvine and several neighboring cities.

Meteorologists reported wind gusts up to about 60 miles per hour in parts of the region, with the line of storms tracking southeast from the Los Angeles–Orange County border. The system brought brief heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds that had the potential to damage trees, power lines, and roofs.

City crews and utility workers spent much of the day checking for localized impacts. Residents are being reminded to secure outdoor furniture, keep gutters clear, and pay attention to future weather alerts as the winter storm pattern continues.

Great Park gears up for Irvine Camp Fair

Looking past the storms, many Irvine families are turning their attention to summer planning. The Irvine Camp Fair is scheduled to return to the Great Park this weekend, offering a one-stop showcase of day camps, overnight camps, and specialty programs from across the region.

The free event is set to take place at Hangar 244 in the Great Park, with dozens of camp providers expected. Organizers say the idea is to let parents and kids meet camp staff in person, compare options, and ask questions about programming, safety, and financial aid.

Parking and admission are free, but attendees are encouraged to reserve a spot in advance because space can fill up quickly. The Camp Fair is part of a broader push to make the Great Park a hub for family activities as new amenities and entertainment venues come online over the next few years.

Sources

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-02-19/why-irvine-police-are-warning-about-senior-assassin-grad-game
https://kesq.com/weather/alerts-weather/2026/02/18/severe-thunderstorm-warning-issued-february-18-at-126am-pst-until-february-18-at-230am-pst-by-nws-san-diego-ca/
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/irvine-camp-fair-at-irvine-great-park-tickets-1866047611639
https://www.unation.com/event/irvine-camp-fair-at-irvine-great-park-63142460/