Los Angeles, California – Wet pavement, low clouds, and steady rain are setting a soggy tone across Southern California as 2026 begins, with flooding concerns already in play for parts of Los Angeles County. Streets that usually drain quickly are filling faster this morning, and drivers are encountering standing water in low spots as rain continues to fall.
According to the National Weather Service office in Los Angeles/Oxnard, a Flood Watch remains in effect through this evening, with a Flood Advisory posted for urban areas early today. Rainfall totals of up to a half inch or more are possible during heavier bands, enough to overwhelm storm drains after recent holiday rains saturated the ground.
The greatest impacts are expected in low-lying neighborhoods, near creeks, and along poor-drainage roads from Downtown Los Angeles through Hollywood, Van Nuys, and toward the foothills. Minor flooding is possible near normally dry washes, while canyon roads face an elevated debris-flow risk. Drivers should slow down on slick stretches of I-5, US-101, and surface streets where visibility drops during heavier rain.
Rain continues through today with temperatures holding in the mid-60s, followed by a brief lull before additional chances return late Friday and into the weekend. Pavement stays wet, and cooler nights may allow water to linger into early mornings.
More alerts could be issued as the next system approaches. Traveling today or this weekend? Share what road conditions look like in your area.
Five-Day Outlook for Los Angeles, California
• Today (New Year’s Day): Rain likely, high near 65°F. Flood Watch in effect.
• Friday: Partly sunny, high near 65°F.
• Friday Night: Chance of rain late, low near 55°F.
• Saturday: Rain likely, high near 63°F.
• Sunday: Rain likely, high near 62°F.
