An atmospheric river is forecast to hit the California coast starting with Northern California on Nov. 12 and moving down to Southern California the next day.
Rain showers, thunderstorms, and flooding could be in store for parts of the coast as showers are expected to last for about two days. With recent King Tides affecting the central and northern coast, road flooding has become a constant issue in the area.
Debris flows in mountain areas are still a danger, as it has been nearly a year since the Mountain Fire erupted in Ventura County, followed by the Palisades and Eaton Fires in Los Angeles County in January.
What is in store for residents along the California coast, and how can they prepare?
Northern California and the Bay Area
Wednesday, Nov. 12, will kick off the rainstorms in the Bay Area, according to the National Weather Service.
The atmospheric river will bring rain with a light chance of thunderstorms on Nov. 12 and 13. The storm is expected to continue into Nov. 14 with light rain showers.
Californians should also be wary of strong winds blowing debris and making driving more difficult.
A chart of expected weather by the National Weather Service for the California’s Bay Area starting Nov. 11, 2025.
Southern California and the Central Coast
Southern California is expected to see rain starting late Nov. 12.
San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties will experience the peak of the storm early on the morning of Nov. 13, and Ventura and Los Angeles counties will see the peak in the late morning. The storm is expected to persist into Friday, Nov. 14.
The storms could bring between 2 and 4 inches of rain to the mountains and hills, and between 1 and 2 inches to the lowlands.
A chart of expected precipitation by the National Weather Service for the Southern California coast starting Nov. 12, 2025.
Flood preparedness
Tips for driving when coastal streets are flooded, according to the National Weather Service:
Salt water can damage your vehicle
Driving around barriers is dangerous because they could be blocking unseen dangers
Swiftly moving water only inches deep can carry a vehicle away
Speeding through a flooded area causes wakes that damage property
If traveling along the coast, allow extra time for flooded road closures
California drivers should also be cautious of increased traffic congestion and a rise in road accidents resulting from rainstorms. For up-to-date delays and road closures, visit the California Department of Transportation’s Quick Map.
Homeowners near areas that have historically flooded should look for a sandbag station if available.
Ernesto Centeno Araujo covers breaking news for the Ventura County Star. He can be reached at ecentenoaraujo@vcstar.com, 805-437-0224 or @ecentenoaraujo on Instagram and X.
This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: California Coast Braces for Rainstorms, Flooding and Safety Tips