LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Streets are slick, palm fronds glisten, and traffic lights glow through sheets of rain as southern California wakes to a soaking storm this morning. The National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard has issued a Flood Watch until 7 a.m. Friday, with a Flood Advisory in effect until 3 a.m. for Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara Counties.
Forecasters warn of localized flooding, especially in urban and low-lying areas, where rain totals could reach 0.5 to 1 inch, with locally higher amounts near foothills. The heaviest downpours are expected through the early morning commute, when visibility will drop quickly and minor roadway flooding could occur on I-5, U.S. 101, and the 405 corridor.
Residents should avoid flooded intersections and allow extra travel time. Even shallow standing water can hide debris or slick oils from the first major rain of the season. Gusts up to 15 mph could also accompany thunderstorms, bringing scattered power outages or tree limb damage in exposed areas.
By mid-morning, showers will taper off from west to east, giving way to gradual clearing and warmer air through the weekend. Highs are expected to rebound into the upper 60s and low 70s by Saturday, offering a sunny reset for holiday travelers preparing for Thanksgiving week.
Nationally, forecasters continue to monitor a developing cold-weather pattern expected to shift eastward before Thanksgiving, possibly bringing early snow to the Rockies, Plains, and Midwest between Nov. 25 and Dec. 3. For now, southern California’s stormy morning marks the first real taste of November rain — a seasonal sign that winter isn’t far behind.
Five-Day Outlook for Los Angeles, CA:
Fri: 63/52 – Showers early, clearing late.
Sat: 71/50 – Mostly sunny.
Sun: 67/50 – Sunny, mild.
Mon: 67/49 – Mostly sunny.
Tue: 72/50 – Dry, pleasant.
