Downtown Los Angeles is starting Wednesday on the damp and dreary side, with leftover showers keeping streets wet and knocking down visibility in a few spots before things slowly improve. There is still a slight chance of light rain through mid-morning, and temperatures will struggle to get out of the low 60s. Out over the water, large and hazardous surf is running along the coast, so beach plans are better off pushed to another day.
This Morning and Afternoon
According to the National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard, a fast-moving front left behind scattered showers that should taper off by late morning, with about a 30% chance of light rain before 10 a.m. and new rainfall totals generally staying under a quarter inch. South-southeast winds around 5 to 10 mph will turn to the southwest later in the day, keeping skies mostly cloudy into the afternoon. Drivers are urged to ease off the gas on on-ramps and through low-lying areas where ponding could sneak up on you.
Thursday–Friday Warmup and a Weak Santa Ana
Dry weather is expected to take over on Thursday and Friday, with afternoon highs climbing into the upper 60s on Thursday and close to 72°F on Friday as offshore flow briefly strengthens. Forecasters describe this as a weak Santa Ana event, which means breezy conditions in the hills and valleys but nothing like the strongest wind events the region sees. Look for sunnier afternoons and a few inland gusts. Outdoor chores should be no problem, but it is not a bad idea to secure lightweight patio furniture on Friday in more exposed neighborhoods.
Weekend Soaker and Falling Snow Levels
Clouds are forecast to thicken on Saturday with a chance of afternoon showers, and rain becomes more likely on Sunday after 10 a.m. and through Sunday night, according to the NWS forecast discussion. The discussion calls for 2 to 4 inches of rain along the coast and 3 to 6 inches in the mountains from Sunday night through midweek, with snow levels potentially dropping toward 4,000 feet by Tuesday or Wednesday. That could mean increased runoff for lower-elevation foothill communities. Officials urge residents to keep tabs on watches and warnings, since timing and totals can shift as the system gets closer.
Coastal Hazards and Commute Tips
High surf advisories and rough, small-craft conditions remain in effect for west-facing beaches and offshore waters, so do not let a quick jog on the sand turn into a call for help. Stay clear of jetties, rocks, and rip currents. On the roads, slow down on wet ramps, build in extra time for the commute, and watch for fallen branches or other debris in wind-prone corridors. Anyone working on or near the water should check marine advisories before heading out and secure loose gear on boats and decks to keep it from becoming a hazard.
