Southern California Braces for Weekend Shift: From Sunshine to Storms
Southern California is enjoying a brief respite of warm, dry weather, but a significant change is on the horizon. Forecasters predict a strong storm system will arrive Sunday, bringing with it the threat of thunderstorms, flooding, high winds, and dangerous coastal conditions.
Warm Weekend Gives Way to Mounting Concerns
An offshore flow is currently delivering sunny skies across the Los Angeles area through Friday, according to Ryan Kittell, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Oxnard office. A slight temperature drop is expected Saturday, but the real shift will occur Sunday night as the storm system moves in.
Evacuation Warnings Issued for Burn Scar Areas
The potential for debris flows is a major concern, particularly in areas recently affected by wildfires. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and L.A. Fire Department have already issued evacuation warnings, beginning Sunday night, for residents near the Palisades fire and Eaton fire burn scars. Residents are urged to prepare for potential mud and debris flows and be ready to evacuate if necessary.
Storm Timeline: What to Expect When
The most intense period of the storm is anticipated from late Sunday through Monday. Through Tuesday, heavy rainfall, severe thunderstorms, and damaging wind gusts are possible. Rainfall is expected to lessen by Tuesday night, becoming on-and-off. A brief break in activity is forecast for Wednesday, but more rain is expected Wednesday night through Friday.
Coastal Hazards: High Surf and Rip Currents
The storm isn’t just a threat inland. Forecasters are closely monitoring coastal conditions, with a strong possibility of a high-surf advisory being issued Monday through Thursday. Wave sets exceeding 10 feet are possible across all Southern California beaches, and there’s a 20-30% chance of damaging sets developing Tuesday night through Wednesday night. The highest waves are predicted for the Central Coast’s northwest-facing shores.
Snow Levels and Mountain Impacts
Snow levels are expected to remain above 6,000 feet for most of the storm, but significant accumulations are possible at higher elevations. Meteorologists anticipate moderate rain amounts and intensities across all areas, along with moderate mountain snow accumulations, particularly at resort levels.
Not as Severe as Last Year’s “Pineapple Express”
Even as this storm poses significant risks, forecasters note it’s not expected to be as severe as the atmospheric river event that impacted Southern California last Christmas. That storm set daily rainfall records and triggered widespread flood watches and evacuation warnings.
FAQ
What areas are under evacuation warnings?
Large areas of the Palisades fire burn scar and the Eaton fire burn scar are under evacuation warnings beginning Sunday night.
When is the storm expected to be at its strongest?
The strongest part of the storm system is expected to arrive late Sunday through Monday.
Will this storm be worse than the one last Christmas?
No, forecasters do not anticipate this storm will be as severe as the atmospheric river event from last Christmas.
What should I do to prepare?
Residents in burn scar areas should prepare for potential mud or debris flows and be ready to evacuate if necessary. All residents should stay informed about weather updates and exercise caution on roads.
Pro Tip: Stay updated on the latest forecasts from the National Weather Service and local news sources. Sign up for emergency alerts in your area to receive timely warnings.
Learn more about preparing for severe weather events at the National Weather Service website.
Have questions about this storm? Share them in the comments below!
