San Bernardino Daily Briefing: Storm Impacts, Deadly Crash, and Tax Scam Alert
San Bernardino, CA – February 18, 2026 – Winter storms snarl mountain travel, a deadly city crash is reported, and county officials warn residents about check fraud.
San Bernardino Daily Local Update
Heavy snow keeps San Bernardino Mountains under warning
A powerful winter storm continues to pound the San Bernardino Mountains, with a Winter Storm Warning still in effect and more snow and strong winds expected through Thursday. Forecasters report several inches to more than a foot of accumulation at higher elevations, with chain controls, whiteout pockets, and occasional road closures around Running Springs, Big Bear, and other mountain communities.
Drivers are being urged to avoid nonessential trips into the mountains, carry chains, extra supplies, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. County officials note that lower elevations, including the city of San Bernardino, are mainly seeing rain and gusty winds, but mountain travel remains hazardous.
Fatal crash on Kendall Drive claims life of local man
A San Bernardino man identified as Rafael Cruz Sr. was killed in a collision on Kendall Drive earlier this week. According to preliminary reports, the crash involved multiple vehicles and caused significant damage in the area near the north side of the city.
Investigators are still working to determine the exact cause of the incident, including speed and roadway conditions at the time of the crash. Residents in the neighborhood have expressed concern about frequent speeding along Kendall Drive and hope the investigation leads to safety improvements.
County warns of check fraud ahead of property tax deadline
As the next property tax deadline approaches, San Bernardino County is warning residents about new reports of check fraud and payment scams targeting taxpayers. County officials say some residents have reported altered or stolen checks and misleading payment instructions that appear to come from official sources.
Homeowners are being urged to use only verified payment channels, such as the county’s official online portal, in-person payments at county offices, or mailed checks sent to the address printed on their tax bill. Officials emphasize that taxpayers should be cautious about unsolicited calls, texts, or emails requesting financial information, and should contact the county directly if anything seems suspicious.
What residents should do today
City and county agencies recommend limiting mountain travel while the storm warning remains in place, monitoring local forecasts and road reports, and checking on neighbors who may be vulnerable to power outages or travel disruptions. Property owners preparing to pay upcoming tax bills are encouraged to double-check routing details and keep a close eye on bank statements to catch any irregularities quickly.
Sources
https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/snow-impacting-highways-san-bernardino-212535546.html
https://bosd3.sbcounty.gov/winter-storm-system-to-bring-heavy-mountain-snow-strong-winds-and-rain-through-thursday/
https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMirgFBVV95cUxNNThpWUI4S2RyTWI4Q1dZZWN1ZXJCOFpNSlRXT2JScmxFSzgxckF
https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMimwFBVV95cUxNdWFlUWlGNFFGSmlVQm5SR09hZnZHX3J4OElVbXB0d0t4NmdyM
https://main.sbcounty.gov/2025/09/25/county-officials-warn-taxpayers-of-property-tax-payment-scam/