Christmas Storm Update: SoCal Faces Multiple Rain Waves and High Winds

Incoming Storm System

• 🌧️ Southern California is experiencing the first round of a powerful Christmas storm, with more moisture expected throughout the week.
• 🎯 The heaviest rainfall from the initial wave moved through this morning, primarily impacting the Santa Clarita region, northern San Fernando Valley, and coastal areas like Palisades, Malibu, and Santa Monica.
• ⚠️ Intense rainfall is currently being indicated by yellow on satellite and radar, particularly affecting areas with recent burn scars like Aladino.

Multiple Rain Waves Expected

• 🌊 The storm system consists of three distinct waves, with the most intense activity occurring early this morning (Wave 1).
• 🗓️ Wave 2 is forecast to arrive tomorrow afternoon and continue through the night, with expectations of heavier rainfall.
• 💨 Wave 3 is predicted for Friday, expected to be lighter in nature but with periods of rain continuing throughout the day.
• 💧 Rainfall is not expected to completely cease between waves, with lingering moisture anticipated.

Flood and Wind Alerts

• 🚨 A flood watch is currently in effect and will extend through the end of the week, covering all highlighted green regions.
• ⚠️ While flood risk has seen some improvement, a moderate risk of flooding (Level 3 out of 4) remains for the Los Angeles area and surrounding regions.
• 🌬️ High wind warnings are in place for specific areas, with potential gusts up to 70 mph or higher, while wind advisories cover the LA basin and Orange County, with gusts up to 55 mph.
• 🚗 High-profile vehicles may face issues on corridors like I-5 near Frasier Park due to strong winds.

Temperature and Snow Levels

• 🌡️ Current temperatures are in the 50s and low 60s, with cooler temperatures in the 40s in northern areas like Frasier Park and Big Bear.
• 📉 High temperatures for today are expected to fall short of seasonal averages.
• ❄️ Snow levels are projected to drop to approximately 6,000 feet by Friday.

Storm Impact and Outlook

• 📈 Accumulated rainfall through all three waves could range from 3 to 6 inches for coasts and valleys, and up to 10 inches in mountains and foothills.
• ⛰️ Mudslides and debris flow are significant concerns, especially near recent burn scars.
• ⚡ Thunderstorms have occurred, with a tornado warning issued for Alhambra; continued monitoring for such events is necessary.
• 🌐 The West Coast remains impacted by this atmospheric river, with preparations underway for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.