Southern California is set to experience a dramatic shift in weather just in time for Christmas. After a stretch of unusually warm December temperatures, a powerful atmospheric river storm is expected to bring widespread heavy rain, gusty winds, and mountain snow across the region during Christmas week.
Meteorologists warn that parts of SoCal could become one of the wettest regions globally during this period, raising concerns about flooding, travel disruptions, and hazardous conditions.
Overview: Atmospheric River Targets SoCal for Christmas Week
A cooling trend will begin over the weekend, followed by the arrival of a strong atmospheric river early next week. This system is expected to deliver several days of rainfall, with the heaviest precipitation arriving on Christmas Eve.
Rain chances will remain high through the end of the week, with lingering showers possible into the following weekend.
Christmas Week Storm Timeline in Southern California
🌧 Sunday Night to Monday
- The atmospheric river begins moving into Southern California
- Early periods of brief but intense downpours possible
🌧 Tuesday Afternoon to Evening
- Rain may begin as early as Tuesday afternoon
- Initially light and scattered showers
- Rain intensity increases by Tuesday evening
🌧 Christmas Eve (Wednesday)
- Heaviest rainfall of the week expected
- Highest risk for flooding, especially in low-lying and burn-scar areas
🌧 Christmas Day (Thursday)
- Additional rain likely, though slightly lighter than Christmas Eve
🌧 Friday Through Weekend
- Rain continues through Friday
- Light showers may linger into Saturday and Sunday
Regional Weather Forecast Breakdown
Los Angeles & Orange Counties
- Saturday: Mostly sunny
- High: 70°F | Low: 53°F
- Rain expected Tuesday through Friday
- Estimated rainfall totals: 0.5 to 2 inches
Valleys & Inland Empire
- Saturday: Sunny and warm
- High: 75°F | Low: 49°F
- Heaviest rain on Christmas Eve, potentially around 2 inches
Coastal & Beach Areas
- Saturday: Partly cloudy
- High: 64°F | Low: 52°F
- Rain chances peak midweek
- Estimated rainfall: around 1 inch
Mountain Communities
- Saturday: Partly cloudy
- High: 61°F | Low: 32°F
- Snow expected at higher elevations once storm arrives
- Travel impacts likely in mountain passes
Desert Areas
- Saturday: Sunny and warm
- High: 73°F | Low: 46°F
- Palm Springs could reach 80°F
- Storm may bring strong winds along with rain
Potential Impacts to Watch
- Localized flooding and ponding on roads
- Mudslides and debris flows near burn scars
- Snow-covered mountain roads and chain controls
- Gusty winds causing power outages or travel delays
Residents are advised to monitor forecasts closely and prepare for changing conditions throughout the holiday week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When will the heaviest rain hit Southern California?
The heaviest rainfall is expected on Christmas Eve, with widespread rain across most regions.
Will it rain on Christmas Day?
Yes, rain is likely on Christmas Day, though amounts may be lighter than Christmas Eve.
How much rain is expected in SoCal?
Most areas can expect 0.5 to 2 inches of rain, with locally higher totals in the Inland Empire and foothills.
Will there be snow in Southern California?
Yes, snow is expected in higher mountain elevations once the storm system moves in.
How long will the storm last?
Rain is expected from Tuesday through Friday, with possible light showers continuing into the weekend.
Final Outlook
This Christmas week storm marks a significant weather shift for Southern California. While the rain will help drought conditions, residents should stay alert for flooding, wind impacts, and travel hazards, especially during peak holiday travel days.
Stay weather-aware and plan ahead to ensure a safe and smooth holiday week across SoCal.
Leave a Reply