Floods at Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo

Historical Flood Events

Yes, Mission San Carlos Borromeo (Carmel Mission) experienced significant flooding:

• January 1820 – The mission was inundated.
• July 1821 – Exceptional rains submerged this and every other California mission.

Why Missions Were Flood‑Prone

Spanish missionaries often chose sites near rivers for water‑powered gristmills and irrigation, placing them in natural floodplains. Seasonal torrents and inadequate drainage led to repeated damage.