Los Angeles, California – Rain taps steadily on rooftops before sunrise, leaving streets dark, shiny, and slow. Wet pavement greets early drivers as a strengthening Weather Alert takes hold across Southern California, setting the tone for post-Christmas travel into the weekend and toward Monday.
According to the National Weather Service and the Weather Prediction Center, a plume of Pacific moisture is driving periods of moderate to heavy rain across Los Angeles County and much of Southern California. A Flood Watch remains in effect through Friday afternoon, with the greatest concern for urban flooding, small streams, and burn scar areas. Gusty winds add to the mess, occasionally pushing umbrellas sideways and knocking leaves onto already slick roads.
Rain remains steady at times today, with highs near the low 60s downtown. Travel may slow on major routes including I-5, U.S. 101, and surface streets prone to pooling water. Plan extra time if heading out later today or Friday, especially during peak travel hours. To be fair, rainfall may ease briefly, but showers quickly redevelop into Friday night.
Looking ahead, the broader storm system keeps California unsettled into Saturday. Light showers linger Friday night before tapering Saturday, while cooler air settles in. Snow continues to pile up in the Sierra Nevada, complicating mountain travel and reinforcing a winter mindset for anyone returning home after the holidays.
By Sunday, skies trend brighter across Los Angeles, with cooler mornings and clearer afternoons. Highs rebound into the low to mid-60s, while overnight temperatures dip into the mid-40s. Early next week looks quieter, though meteorologists continue tracking additional systems that could bring more rain later in the week.
For now, expect wet roads, slower travel, and changing conditions. Keep rain gear handy, avoid flooded streets, and stay alert for updates as the Weather Alert remains in effect through Friday.
