Southern California is gearing up for a significant rainstorm expected to hit Los Angeles County starting Wednesday. Forecasters say this storm could signal the beginning of a wet March, which is crucial for the region that has experienced a very dry start to the rainy season.
Rain is projected to begin around noon on Wednesday as the storm travels down from the Central Coast. The heaviest rainfall is anticipated late Wednesday and could continue into early Friday. Robbie Munroe, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, noted that this storm follows one of the driest starts to the rainy season in recorded history, which has already contributed to a particularly destructive fire season.
As of now, downtown Los Angeles has received only 5.58 inches of rain since the water year began on October 1, falling short of the average of 11.08 inches for this time of year. Munroe emphasized that the area has been playing catch-up due to an extremely dry January and a February that was still below normal.
This week’s storm is expected to bring between a tenth of an inch and an inch of rain to coastal areas, while foothills and mountains could see between 1 to 2 inches. In higher elevations, snowfall is also expected, with 2 to 5 inches possible above 4,500 feet. Wind gusts may reach as high as 50 mph on Thursday.
Along with the rain, there is a chance of thunderstorms late Wednesday into Thursday. These storms could lead to heavy downpours, gusty winds, and even small hail. There’s also a slight risk of weak tornadoes, which adds another layer of concern.
While the rain is generally seen as beneficial for the parched landscape, too much too quickly could lead to debris flows, especially in areas affected by recent wildfires. Angela George-Moody from L.A. County’s Department of Public Works warned that there is a risk of mud flows and blocked streets in burn areas.
Preparations are underway, with local officials ensuring that flood control facilities are clear and ready for the storm. Residents are encouraged to take precautions, such as clearing drainage paths and using sandbags to protect their homes.
After this storm, Southern California may experience a brief dry spell before another system arrives on Sunday night, potentially bringing more rain. This ongoing wet weather could help improve the region’s snowpack, which is vital for water supply, and may delay the onset of the fire season later in the year.