Rain and Snow Back in the Forecast for California Through the Weekend
Alexis Thornton
Last monthA weak disturbance is forecast to bring rain and snow to the higher elevations in California this weekend. Here is a look at what you can expect this weekend in the Golden State as well as throughout the rest of the West Coast.
First of Duo of Storms Pushing into California to Close Out the Week
Forecasters are predicting that a pair of storm systems will deliver much-needed moisture to California this weekend. While this storm will not be a major precipitation producer, any little bit of rain or snow will work to reduce the risk of wildfires.
The first storm of the pair will move into California on Friday and Saturday. This weather maker will usher in intermittent rain showers and cloudier conditions. Cooler temperatures will also filter in with this system. The latest forecast models call for temperatures to land 10 to 20 degrees lower on Friday and Saturday when compared to Wednesday and Thursday's warmer weather. For instance, Los Angeles will fall from a high of around 70 degrees on Friday to readings that struggle to break out of the low 60s by Sunday.
A second storm that is likely to be more organized and potent will push inland from the Pacific Ocean by the end of the weekend and into the early part of next week. This system will have a higher chance of producing more rainfall because the atmosphere will have already been primed. This will also translate to snow for the higher terrain across the Sierra Nevada.
This is not expected to be a major flooding event. However, enough moisture may fall across the northern and central portions of California to trigger moderate runoff and ponding on the roadways. The rain in Southern California will likely be limited to the coastal areas.
It could be a wet affair for those walking the red carpet on Sunday afternoon in Hollywood for the Oscars. The forecast for Los Angeles is calling for a chance of scattered rain showers throughout the day. Forecasters are also warning that a stray thunderstorm could impact the area. A storm igniting could also bring localized heavy rain. The bottom line is that you will want to keep an eye on the hourly forecast if you have outdoor plans on Sunday in Southern California.