Downtown Los Angeles woke up to a cold, soggy Thursday on Feb. 19, with steady rain, temperatures stuck in the low to mid 40s, and slick pavement across the core. Drivers are already seeing slower travel times, and low spots and ramps could collect enough water to cause brief ponding.
Rain And Gusts Through Thursday
A passing cold front will keep the rain going through the morning and into early afternoon, with most of the city looking at about one tenth to one half inch of new rainfall and a few heavier pockets in spots. South winds will ramp up to around 5 to 25 mph, with gusts near 40 mph possible in the basin. Interior valleys and mountain corridors could feel it even more, with stronger, potentially damaging gusts. The National Weather Service expects the main band of the storm to slide east by late afternoon, with advisories still in effect.
Mountain Travel And Chain Rules
The toughest conditions will be in the higher elevations. Snow is forecast mainly above roughly 4,000 feet, with heavier accumulation above 6,000 feet and a light dusting to about an inch possible around the Grapevine and Tejon Pass. Drivers should be ready for sudden bursts of snow, slow-moving traffic and short-term closures over the passes. Check chain controls and real-time highway conditions before heading out through Caltrans.
Coast, Commutes And Safety
Out at the beaches, a large west-northwest swell will keep surf rough on west-facing shores through Friday. Minor coastal flooding and tidal overflow are possible during high tides, so it is a good day to stay off jetties and away from low-lying waterfront spots. Around town, commuters should brace for slick roads, downed branches and slower or delayed drives. If you can, build in extra travel time and do not attempt to drive through flooded streets. The National Weather Service has a Wind Advisory in effect, with pockets of High Wind Warning and a Winter Storm Warning in the mountains through 7 a.m. Friday, Feb. 20.
Quick Tips
Tie down or bring in loose outdoor furniture, push off any nonessential mountain trips, and carry chains or other traction devices if you must cross a pass. For background on rain, rough surf and rowdy winds expected this week, keep alerts turned on and be ready for conditions to change fast.
Legal Implications
Caltrans can require chains and screen trucks at approach points, and vehicles that do not have the needed traction devices may be turned around at checkpoints. Follow directions from Caltrans or CHP personnel and be prepared for detours or temporary closures if the weather worsens.
