The first of three incoming storms is expected to reach the Southland late Sunday or early Monday, ushering in colder winter weather, steady rainfall across coastal and inland communities, and snow in the mountains, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters say this initial system will likely be the strongest, bringing the highest rainfall totals. Coastal and valley areas could receive 1 to 3 inches of rain, while mountain communities may see 2 to 5 inches by late Monday.
A wind advisory will be in effect from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, and a flood watch has been issued for much of Los Angeles County from Monday morning through the evening. Officials warned of possible rock and mudslides near steep hillsides and debris flows in burn scar areas.
The City of Los Angeles has issued evacuation warnings for residents living near recent burn scars. Mayor Karen Bass urged those communities to stay alert and prepare for potential emergency notifications.
“Ahead of heavy rain forecasted this week, first responders, Public Works crews, and City personnel are taking action to keep Angelenos safe and will be ready to respond to any potential impacts,” Bass said Saturday. “This is likely to be another significant rain event. All Angelenos — especially those in burn scar areas — should follow official guidance, use caution on the roads, plan ahead, and stay informed.”
Meteorologists also cautioned residents in flood-prone neighborhoods to be ready to act if conditions worsen.
Rain is expected to taper off Monday night into Tuesday, though scattered showers may continue as colder air settles into the region. Snow levels are forecast to drop from around 6,500 feet at the start of the storm to near 5,000 feet by Tuesday.
A second system is projected to move in Tuesday night through Wednesday, bringing additional cold temperatures, rain and mountain snow. Snow levels could fall to between 2,500 and 3,000 feet at times, potentially creating hazardous travel conditions in higher elevations. Forecasters estimate another 1.5 to 3 inches of rain during that period, with mountain totals possibly reaching 3 to 6 inches.
Temperatures will decline sharply beginning Monday, with daytime highs staying in the mid-50s across much of Los Angeles and Orange counties throughout the week. Highs may dip into the low 50s and upper 40s in the Santa Clarita and Antelope valleys. Overnight lows will generally remain in the 40s, but could fall into the 30s in mountain areas, the Santa Clarita Valley and the high desert from Tuesday through Friday.
Strong winds, thunderstorms and rough seas may also create hazardous marine conditions early in the week.
A third storm could arrive Thursday, though meteorologists say its strength and moisture levels remain uncertain.
Residents can monitor local emergency updates through the city’s NotifyLA system.
