LOS ANGELES, Calif. – The calm before the rain is settling over Southern California this morning. Patchy fog drifts through the L.A. Basin and the San Fernando Valley, but all eyes are on the Pacific as a wet November storm approaches, promising the region’s first widespread rainfall in weeks.
According to the National Weather Service in Oxnard, Thursday will start partly sunny with highs near 67°F, but clouds will thicken by afternoon as a coastal trough pulls moisture inland. Showers are expected by late evening, with steadier rain arriving after sunset and continuing into Friday morning. Areas from Santa Monica to Pasadena could see a half inch or more by midday Friday, while foothill communities might catch higher totals.
Friday remains damp and breezy, with highs only in the low 60s. Forecasters expect rainfall rates to peak during the morning commute, potentially slowing traffic on I-5, I-10, and the 101 corridor. Motorists should allow extra time and watch for slick roads.
By Saturday, the storm’s trailing edge could deliver another round of moderate showers before tapering late in the day. Sunshine and mild conditions should return Sunday, offering a break just in time for early holiday errands or outdoor events.
While no flooding is expected at this time, localized ponding and gusty winds could accompany heavier showers. This system marks a clear “winter tease” for Los Angeles, hinting at stronger Pacific storms still to come as Thanksgiving week approaches.
And though the dazzling Northern Lights seen across much of the U.S. earlier this week have faded, minor GPS and communication disruptions remain possible across coastal California through early Thursday.
Five-Day Outlook for Los Angeles, CA:
Thu: 67/58 – Partly sunny; rain late evening.
Fri: 61/56 – Steady rain; breezy at times.
Sat: 62/54 – Showers tapering late.
Sun: 68/53 – Clearing; partly sunny.
Mon: 73/56 – Mild, dry, and bright.
