A powerful Pineapple Express storm is set to bathe Southern California in several inches of rain over the Christmas holiday, triggering a flood watch and city preparations for wet weather.
Storm Overview
The storm, classified as a Pineapple Express, is expected to dump several inches of rain across most of the region. A flood watch was issued beginning Tuesday afternoon for much of Los Angeles County and recent burn scar areas. The National Weather Service noted that the heaviest part of the storm will arrive late Tuesday, heading into Christmas Eve on Wednesday.
Rainfall Timeline
- Tuesday: Light to moderate showers with less than a half-inch of rain expected.
- Wednesday (Christmas Eve): Heavy rainfall begins early Wednesday, with “very strong wings,” according to the National Weather Service.
- Thursday (Christmas): Possible heavy rain, though the worst is expected on Wednesday.
- Friday-Saturday: Sporadic showers continue, with amounts under a quarter inch per hour.
Weather Impacts
The flood watch extends from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday evening, covering much of Los Angeles County. Mud and debris flows are possible across foothill and mountain areas, including recent burn scars. City officials began preparations on Friday. Monday’s high temperature is forecast at 67 °F in downtown LA, dropping gradually to 59 °F by Friday. Snow is not expected to be a major factor; elevation levels fall to around 7,000 ft Thursday and Friday. Hazardous mountain conditions and major travel disruptions are possible.
Tweet from NWS Los Angeles
On Dec 21, 2025, the NWS Los Angeles account posted: ‘Strong #SoCal storm over the Christmas holiday.- Rain Tue-Sat Heaviest Tue Night-Wed- FLOOD WATCH Tue Afternoon-Wed Evening All 4 counties * Debris flows and widespread urban flooding possible- Gusty SE winds Tue-Wed#CAwx’.
Key Takeaways
- Several inches of rain are expected across Southern California over the Christmas week.
- A flood watch and debris flow warnings cover much of LA County and burn scar areas.
- City officials are preparing for wet weather as temperatures drop from 67 °F to 59 °F.
Residents should stay alert to weather updates and heed local advisories as the storm progresses.
