Overview

This week, Southern California is bracing for rain that is expected to create slippery conditions, particularly during the Tuesday afternoon commute in Los Angeles County. The National Weather Service has provided forecasts indicating varying amounts of rainfall across the region.

Key details

  • Rainfall in Los Angeles and Ventura counties is expected to peak between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Tuesday.
  • Light rain is anticipated in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
  • Thousand Oaks and Santa Clarita may receive about one-fifth of an inch of rain.
  • Downtown Los Angeles and Los Angeles International Airport are forecasted to get one-tenth of an inch.
  • Long Beach is expected to see about one-twentieth of an inch of rain.
  • Orange County, the Inland Empire, and the San Diego County coast have a small chance of measurable rain.
  • Rain is expected to begin in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties as early as Monday night.
  • Santa Barbara could receive half an inch of rain, while San Luis Obispo may see nearly an inch.
  • Gusty winds are anticipated in the mountains and deserts of Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties.
  • These winds could lead to downed tree limbs and make driving high-profile vehicles challenging.
  • More substantial rain is expected in the San Francisco Bay Area, with forecasts of 1 to 1.5 inches in various cities.
  • Minor nuisance flooding is possible in urban and poorly drained areas if heavy rain showers or thunderstorms occur.

Context

The approaching storm is part of a broader weather pattern affecting California, with significant rainfall expected in northern regions, particularly the San Francisco Bay Area, where the impact will be more pronounced.

What happens next

As the storm progresses, motorists in the Sierra Nevada may face road challenges, including the need for tire chains, due to the expected conditions.

What we don't know yet

Specific details regarding the exact timing of rain in all areas, the potential for thunderstorms, and the extent of flooding in urban areas are not confirmed.