A powerful storm system persisted in Southern California on Thursday, delivering bouts of “moderate-to-heavy” rain expected to extend into Friday.
The storm’s impact was most pronounced in Ventura County overnight, experiencing thunderstorms and a potential tornado, resulting in rainfall rates exceeding 3 inches per hour.
While Los Angeles County saw intermittent heavy rain, similar conditions were anticipated to persist on Thursday.
The National Weather Service highlighted ongoing mid-level instability, forecasting the possibility of thunderstorm development throughout the day and evening. Rainfall rates, ranging from 0.3 to 0.6 inches per hour, could potentially double during intense cloud bursts. Expected additional rainfall on Thursday is one to 3 inches, with the likelihood of higher amounts in thunderstorm or training cell areas, while some regions may experience less.
Showers are projected to linger in Los Angeles County on Thursday night and into Friday morning, with residual rain possible in eastern areas until Saturday morning. Conditions are expected to dry up by Saturday, continuing through the holiday weekend.
A flood watch is in effect for most of Los Angeles County until late Thursday night, while Orange County has a flood watch from Thursday evening through Friday evening. Los Angeles County Public Works raised the mudflow warning level in recent burn areas, particularly in Topanga Canyon, Agua Dulce, La Tuna Canyon, and Duarte.
Duarte city announced a “yellow alert” status for the Fish Fire burn area from 4 p.m. until 8 a.m. Friday, affecting around 25 homes. Parking restrictions are enforced, and residents are advised to relocate trash bins closer to their homes. In Topanga Canyon, an evacuation warning covers about 20 homes along Santa Maria Road north of Topanga Canyon Boulevard.
Six Flags Magic Mountain remains closed due to inclement weather for the second consecutive day.
Los Angeles County Lifeguards issued a caution for beachgoers due to heightened ocean activity.
County health officials warned against entering the ocean in the days following rain, citing runoff risks. Snow levels are anticipated to stay above 7,500 feet, with accumulations at elevations over 8,000 feet.
Los Angeles County officials emphasized coordinated efforts to ensure public safety and capture stormwater for future use.
