Los Angeles, CA – Southern California is heading into a stormier-than-usual pattern from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook showing above-normal precipitation across the region and temperatures leaning slightly above normal. While valley snow is unlikely, this setup favors heavy rain, gusty winds, and significant mountain snow heading into Christmas Eve.
According to NOAA, Southern California mountain regions—including Big Bear, Wrightwood, Idyllwild, and the San Bernardino and San Gabriel ranges—are poised for accumulating snow, especially from December 19–23. Several systems may drop moderate to heavy snow, impacting major mountain passes including Cajon Pass (I-15), Highway 18, Highway 38, and Angeles Crest Highway (SR 2).
Across the Los Angeles Basin, including Los Angeles, Long Beach, Anaheim, and Inglewood, temperatures remain too warm for snow. Instead, expect periods of heavy rain, especially during December 20–22. Urban flooding, ponding water, and reduced visibility may affect major routes such as I-5, I-10, I-405, and U.S. 101.
In the Inland Empire—Riverside, San Bernardino, Corona, Murrieta—steady rain may mix with brief freezing drizzle in higher foothill elevations late at night between December 19–21, though impacts should remain isolated.
Along the Southern California coast, including Ventura, Orange County, and San Diego, widespread rain, strong onshore winds, and high surf may cause coastal flooding, especially December 21–23.
The desert regions—Palm Springs, Coachella Valley, Victorville, and the High Desert—will see rain and gusty winds, with snow possible on higher passes such as Highway 138, Highway 18, and the I-15 corridor near Cajon Pass.
Travel across major routes—including I-5, I-15, I-10, SR 91, U.S. 101, and I-405—may face delays, flooding, mountain snowpack, and chain requirements, especially December 21 through Christmas Eve.
