A storm system moving into Southern California on Wednesday will bring rain to most of the region through New Year’s Day, prompting evacuation warnings for the recent burn scar areas.
Light showers were already falling in some areas, including South Gate in southeast Los Angeles County, early Wednesday morning. Forecasters expect the light rain to continue into the afternoon.
“So, here’s the deal. The heaviest rain begins just after midnight and is expected to continue through noon Thursday,” KTLA’s Kirk Hawkins said.
During the peak of the storm, the highest amounts in the valleys will occur near the foothills, with rainfall rates expected to range from 0.25 to 0.50 inches per hour. Rates up to 1 inch per hour are possible during the peak of the storm and under any thunderstorms that may form, according to the National Weather Service.
A flood watch will be in effect for much of Southern California from Wednesday evening through Thursday evening, when excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations.
A storm is headed for Southern California on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day 2025. (National Weather Service)
Predicted rain accumulation through 11 p.m. Thursday:
Big Bear City 1.05 inches
An evacuation warning will be in effect on Wednesday for recent burn scar zones across Los Angeles County, including the Palisades, Eaton, Agua Dulce, Franklin, Lidia, Bridge, Kenneth and Canyon fire areas. More evacuation information, including an interactive map, can be found on Los Angeles County’s emergency alerts website.
“Scattered showers in the afternoon Thursday will drop off and become mostly cloudy, but we will see late Friday and early Saturday the showers returning,” Kirk said.
Warmer temperatures associated with this system will keep snow levels relatively high at around 8,500 feet.
The wet weather may continue into early next week, according to the National Weather Service.
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