Los Angeles, CA – Southern California residents are experiencing a lingering atmospheric river, bringing several days of rain and thunderstorms following Christmas, but forecasters say a sunny weekend is on the horizon. Authorities are urging drivers and residents to remain cautious as wet conditions continue through Friday and into early Saturday.
Christmas Week Storm Timeline
After some brief breaks in rainfall on Thursday, another round of showers and thunderstorms is expected Thursday evening and overnight. Areas across Southern California will wake up on Friday to widespread and scattered rainfall, with light but steady showers lingering into the afternoon.
A slight chance of rain remains in many locations on Saturday morning, but meteorologists anticipate a clear and sunny weekend before the next round of precipitation arrives for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Friday Forecast by Region
Los Angeles and Orange Counties
- High: 59°F
- Low: 51°F
- Rainfall: About ½ inch expected
- Saturday: 50% chance of morning showers
Valleys and Inland Empire
- High: 59°F
- Low: 40°F
- Rainfall: Up to 1 inch expected
- Weekend Outlook: Chilly overnight lows in the upper 30s and low 40s
Beaches
- High: 59°F
- Low: 56°F
- Rainfall: About ½ inch expected
- Saturday: 50% chance of rain in the morning
Mountain Communities
- High: 41°F
- Low: 16°F
- Forecast: Continued rain with snow likely in high-elevation areas
Desert Areas
- High: 55°F
- Low: 39°F
- Rainfall: About ½ inch expected
- Notable: Palm Springs is expected to reach 66°F
Travel and Safety Tips
Forecasters emphasize that even light rainfall can create slick roads and hazardous driving conditions. Residents are encouraged to:
- Drive cautiously on wet roads
- Be aware of possible flash flooding in low-lying areas
- Prepare for snow in mountain regions if traveling to higher elevations
While Southern California will see a sunny and dry weekend, meteorologists advise planning ahead as more rain and storms are expected around the New Year holiday.
How are you preparing for the rainy conditions in Southern California? Are you planning to travel or stay local this weekend? Share your plans and tips for staying safe in the comments below.
