A fast-moving storm brought significant rainfall to Los Angeles County overnight and into Wednesday, prompting a flash flood warning in a local burn scar area, according to the National Weather Service.
Storm Impacts Across Southern California
Ojai, in Ventura County, experienced the highest rainfall totals with over 1.5 inches recorded. Downtown Los Angeles received nearly three-quarters of an inch of rain, while the Angeles National Forest saw rainfall rates approaching .75 inches per hour, with some areas reaching close to an inch per hour.
The storm’s rapid movement, traveling east at approximately 15 mph by 6 a.m. Wednesday, resulted in higher rainfall rates than initially anticipated, according to Ryan Kittell, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard. While no major issues were reported, minor flooding occurred in some areas.
Rainfall and Wind Totals
Rainfall across L.A. County generally ranged from .25 to just over an inch in coastal and valley areas, and 1 to 2 inches in the foothills and mountains. Several inches of snow fell in higher elevation mountain areas, though precise measurements were unavailable. Winds were strong, reaching 30 to 40 mph in the Santa Monica Mountains and 50 to 70 mph in the San Gabriel Mountains and Antelope Valley. A weather station in Sandberg, in the Antelope Valley, recorded a wind gust of 71 mph.
The storm caused flooding on several freeway lanes overnight, including the 5 Freeway near Dodger Stadium, the 110 Freeway near the 105 Freeway, and all lanes of the 710 Freeway south of Cesar Chavez Avenue.
Looking Ahead
The rain is expected to continue intermittently throughout Wednesday before diminishing in the afternoon. Conditions are forecast to be dry through Saturday. However, another storm pattern is expected to arrive on Sunday, potentially bringing multiple storms and rainfall through Wednesday or Thursday of next week. Forecasters are currently working to predict the expected rainfall amounts and timing. These upcoming storms are anticipated to be colder, with snow levels dropping to between 4,500 and 5,500 feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas received the most rain?
Ojai, in Ventura County, received over 1.5 inches of rain. The Angeles National Forest saw rainfall rates approaching .75 inches per hour.
How did the storm’s speed affect rainfall rates?
According to Ryan Kittell, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard, the storm moved faster than anticipated, which resulted in higher rainfall rates.
What is the forecast for the rest of the week?
Conditions are expected to remain dry through Saturday. Another storm pattern is expected to arrive on Sunday, potentially bringing multiple storms through next week.
How will residents prepare for the possibility of additional storms arriving next week?
