California wakes to damp air, low clouds, and the uneasy calm before a soaking storm. Pavement already holds a dull sheen, and by midweek, rain could fall hard enough to overwhelm streets, creeks, and hillsides across Southern California.
According to the National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard, a Flood Watch is in effect from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday evening as a strong atmospheric river targets the region. Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding in urban areas, along roadways, and near burn scars, with debris flows possible in foothill and canyon communities.
Los Angeles begins Monday relatively quiet, with partial sunshine and highs climbing into the upper 60s. Conditions change quickly Tuesday. Showers develop by afternoon, then intensify into Tuesday night as moisture deepens and winds increase. Rainfall rates may become heavy at times, especially near coastal slopes and foothills.
By Wednesday, steady rain continues across Los Angeles County, Ventura County, and parts of Santa Barbara County. Low-lying roads, underpasses, and normally dry washes could flood fast. Drivers should avoid non-essential travel during heavier bursts, especially during the Wednesday commute. Routes like U.S. 101, I-5 through the Grapevine, and canyon roads may see closures or slowdowns.
An Air Quality Alert also remains in effect due to stagnant conditions and fine particles. Residents are urged to avoid wood burning and limit outdoor exertion when rain eases and pollution lingers.
Christmas Day stays unsettled, with lingering showers and cloudy skies. While temperatures remain mild, wet ground and runoff will keep hazards elevated even after the heaviest rain ends.
Residents should clear storm drains now, prepare for power disruptions, and monitor alerts closely. Traveling for Christmas? What are road conditions like where you are today?
Five-Day Outlook for Los Angeles, California
- Monday: Partly sunny, calm; high near 68°F
- Tuesday: Showers developing by afternoon; high near 64°F
- Wednesday: Heavy rain at times; high near 63°F
- Christmas Day: Showers, cloudy; high near 62°F
- Thursday: Continued showers; high near 61°F
