Southern California is bracing for a series of storms beginning Sunday, bringing colder temperatures, significant rainfall, and mountain snow. The City of Los Angeles issued evacuation warnings Saturday for areas near recent burn scars, anticipating potential debris flows.
Evacuation Warnings and Road Closures
Evacuation warnings are in effect from 9 p.m. Sunday through 9 a.m. Tuesday for residents near the Palisades, Hurst, and Sunset fire zones. Caltrans announced the closure of Topanga Canyon Boulevard (State Route 27) from PCH near Topanga Beach to Grand View Drive, beginning at 10 p.m. Sunday, due to the risk of flooding and debris flows.
Storm Forecast
The first storm is expected to be the most intense, with 1 to 3 inches of rain forecast for coastal and valley areas, and 2 to 5 inches in the mountains by late Monday. A flood watch has been issued for Los Angeles County from Monday morning through Monday evening, with the possibility of rock and mud slides near steep terrain.
Rainfall intensity is expected to decrease Monday night into Tuesday, though scattered showers may continue as colder air moves into the region. Snow levels will drop from around 6,500 feet early in the storm to near 5,000 feet Tuesday.
Additional Storms and Temperature Drop
A second storm system is anticipated Tuesday night into Wednesday, bringing additional rain and mountain snow. Snow levels could fall as low as 2,500 to 3,000 feet, potentially creating hazardous travel conditions. An additional 1.5 to 3 inches of rain is likely, with up to 6 inches possible in the mountains.
Temperatures will decline sharply beginning Monday, with daytime highs in the mid-50s throughout most of Los Angeles and Orange County for the week. The Santa Clarita and Antelope valleys will notice highs in the low 50s and upper 40s. Overnight lows will be in the 40s, dropping into the 30s in the mountains, Santa Clarita Valley, and the high desert from Tuesday through Friday.
Early next week, thunderstorms, strong winds, and rough seas could create dangerous marine conditions. A third storm system is expected Thursday, though the amount of moisture remains unconfirmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are under evacuation warning?
Evacuation warnings have been issued for areas near the Palisades, Hurst, and Sunset fire zones, effective from 9 p.m. Sunday through 9 a.m. Tuesday.
When is the flood watch in effect?
A flood watch is in effect for a wide swath of Los Angeles County from Monday morning through Monday evening.
How low will the snow levels drop?
Snow levels are forecast to drop from around 6,500 feet early in the storm to near 5,000 feet Tuesday, and potentially as low as 2,500 to 3,000 feet later in the week.
As these storms approach, will residents heed evacuation warnings and prepare for potential disruptions to travel and daily life?
