Southern California residents are bracing for a heavy rain and wind-filled storm that begins Tuesday night, peaks Wednesday, and returns on Christmas Day, with evacuation warnings already in effect for the Palisades and Eaton fire zones.
Storm Overview
The multi-day storm will start Tuesday evening with scattered showers, reach its peak on Wednesday, and deliver another wave on Christmas Day. Rain is expected to continue into Saturday.
Timeline
Tuesday
- Scattered showers begin around 7 or 8 p.m.
- High wind warnings and wind advisories are in effect from midday through Thursday afternoon.
Wednesday
- Heavy overnight rain moves from west to east.
- Thunderstorms are possible with rainfall rates of 1 inch per hour at times.
County-specific timing
- Ventura County: Midnight to 7 a.m.
- Los Angeles County: Midnight to 4 p.m.
- Orange County and Inland Empire: 3 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Wind Threat
High wind warnings and wind advisories go into effect at midday and continue through Thursday afternoon. Sustained winds of 30 to 50 mph are possible with potentially damaging gusts of 70 to 80 mph in the mountains and foothills. Strong winds coupled with soaked soil increase the risk for downed trees.
“We are tapping into some tropical moisture, and atmospheric river,” said NBC4 meteorologist Belen De Leon. “We have pretty much a firehose that is aimed toward California.”
Evacuation Warnings
Homes in Pacific Palisades at risk of being affected by potential mudslides have been given evacuation warnings as the storm makes its way to the region. Residents in Altadena burn-scar areas are under evacuation warnings.
Flash Flood Watch
A flash flood watch will be in effect through Thursday evening for much of Southern California. The persistent rainfall forecast led to evacuation warnings that go into effect Tuesday for recent burn-scar areas, including residences near the January Eaton and Palisades fires in Altadena and the Palisades. The warnings urge residents to prepare for possible evacuation orders due to the threat of debris flows.
Conclusion
With heavy rain expected to continue into Saturday, Southern California residents should remain vigilant. The combination of sustained rain, high winds, and the threat of debris flows in recent burn-scar areas makes this a serious weather event.
Key Takeaways
- The storm peaks on Wednesday and returns on Christmas Day.
- Wind gusts up to 80 mph are forecast in the mountains and foothills.
- Evacuation warnings are in place for Palisades, Eaton fire zones, and Altadena burn-scar areas.
