Weather
Los Angeles, CA Storm Alert Oct. 21-22: 3 Inches, Tornado Risk
LOS ANGELES, CA – A storm system approaching Southern California is expected to bring widespread rainfall, potentially dangerous thunderstorms and hazardous driving conditions Wednesday, October 21, t
By Mara Ellison · 2026-10-20T23:46:28.239Z
LOS ANGELES, CA – A storm system approaching Southern California is expected to bring widespread rainfall, potentially dangerous thunderstorms and hazardous driving conditions Wednesday, October 21, through Thursday, October 22, with some mountain and foothill communities facing up to 3 inches of rain.
According to the National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard, rain could begin late Tuesday night before spreading southward across the region. The heaviest activity is expected from late Wednesday morning through late Thursday morning.
Forecasters anticipate widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches south of Point Conception, including portions of Los Angeles and Ventura counties. South facing mountains and foothills could receive 1.5 to 3 inches.
Areas north of Point Conception are expected to receive approximately 0.5 to 1.5 inches.
The forecast map shows approximately 1.61 inches near downtown Los Angeles, 1.53 inches around Oxnard, 1.75 inches near Ojai and 1.77 inches near Santa Barbara. Actual totals may vary depending on storm development.
The weather service also estimates a 30% to 40% chance of thunderstorms, with potential hazards including cloud to ground lightning, heavy downpours, small hail and gusty winds.
Forecasters noted the possibility of isolated waterspouts and a very small chance of a brief tornado.
Although the tornado potential remains low, thunderstorms could develop rapidly and create localized hazardous conditions.
Drivers throughout Southern California should prepare for slick pavement, reduced visibility and possible ponding of water along low lying roads.
Heavy downpours could make Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning travel particularly challenging, especially along major commuter routes and in areas with poor drainage.
Residents should avoid driving through flooded roadways and allow additional travel time during periods of heavier rainfall.
The National Weather Service encourages residents to monitor updated forecasts as the storm moves across Southern California