Southern California, CA — As the final days of 2025 slip away, a familiar winter pattern is returning to the region. Another storm system is lining up to bring rain on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, raising questions for travelers, outdoor plans, and one of the state’s most iconic holiday traditions.
Forecasters say this will not be a single, quick-moving system. Instead, multiple disturbances are expected to influence weather conditions through the end of the workweek and into the opening weekend of 2026.
According to the National Weather Service, an area of low pressure developing to the south will be the primary driver of the incoming rainfall.
New Year’s Eve Day Starts With Scattered Showers
The first signs of wet weather arrive early Wednesday, New Year’s Eve Day. Scattered showers are expected to develop during the morning hours, initially impacting Ventura County and the High Desert before spreading into surrounding areas.
Rainfall during the first half of the day is expected to be spotty rather than continuous, with brief downpours possible. While totals look light early on, damp roads and reduced visibility could slow morning travel, particularly on major routes connecting coastal and inland communities.
Forecasters indicate there may be a temporary break from rain Wednesday afternoon, offering a brief window of drier conditions before the next round arrives.
Rain Returns New Year’s Eve Night
The more impactful phase of the system is expected Wednesday night, just as many people prepare to ring in the New Year. Moisture is forecast to increase after sunset, with showers becoming more widespread overnight and continuing into New Year’s Day.
For those planning evening celebrations, officials advise keeping rain gear handy and allowing extra time for travel. Wet roads and holiday traffic could combine to create slower-than-normal conditions across much of the region.
Rose Parade Weather: Rain Possible, Events Still On
Attention is also focused on Pasadena, where rain could fall during the Rose Parade on New Year’s Day. Despite the forecast, city officials say events are expected to proceed as scheduled.
According to the Pasadena Public Information Office, rain at the Rose Parade is rare, with the last rainy parade occurring in 2006. Still, organizers are preparing for the possibility.
Attendees should note that umbrellas are not allowed along the parade route. City officials recommend using ponchos or rain jackets instead to stay dry while complying with parade rules.
A Brief Lull, Then More Rain Ahead
While showers may ease temporarily after New Year’s Day, forecasters say the break will be short-lived. Another system is already forming in the Pacific, expected to dip south from the Gulf of Alaska and deliver additional showers to Southern California later in the week.
Read Also: Warm Weather and Breezy Skies Ahead for Phoenix This New Year’s Week
This means the region will likely experience multiple rounds of rain as 2025 transitions into 2026, rather than a clean return to dry conditions.
What This Means for Travel and Plans
While no major flooding or severe weather is currently expected, repeated rain can still create issues:
- Wet and slick roadways, especially during overnight and early-morning hours
- Reduced visibility during passing showers
- Slower travel for holiday traffic and parade-related road closures
- Potential for lingering damp conditions into the weekend
Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts, especially if attending outdoor events or traveling during peak holiday hours.
Looking Ahead Into Early 2026
As the calendar turns, Southern California appears set to remain under an active winter pattern. Forecasters will continue tracking storm timing and intensity, particularly as additional systems move in from the Pacific.
While the rain may disrupt some celebrations, it also contributes to much-needed seasonal moisture after a dry start to winter.
Whether you’re heading to a parade, hosting a gathering, or traveling to welcome 2026, staying weather-aware will be key.
Are you adjusting your New Year’s plans because of the rain, or embracing a wet start to 2026? Share how the forecast is shaping your holiday plans in the comments below.
