Downtown Los Angeles gets one more warm, mostly sunny day Thursday before the weather takes a sharp turn. Temperatures will climb from the upper 50s early to about 81 degrees, but rain is expected after 10 p.m. and cooler, wetter conditions will linger into Saturday.
The shift is more dramatic than the warm, mostly dry outlook issued earlier this week. The National Weather Service now expects a pair of rain systems to move through Southern California, with the heaviest stretch arriving Friday night into early Saturday.
Thursday Stays Warm Before Clouds Move In
Thursday will be cooler, with southerly winds.
Rain chances rise quickly Thursday night, reaching about 80 percent after 10 p.m. Downtown Los Angeles should see a low near 59 degrees, with light rainfall amounts generally staying below a tenth of an inch during the first wave.
Friday Brings Rain And A Cooler Commute
Friday will be mostly cloudy and cooler, with a high near 74 degrees and an 80 percent chance of rain. Rainfall amounts could reach between a tenth and a quarter of an inch, while south to southeast winds run 5 to 10 mph.
A second round of rain is expected Friday evening into Saturday morning. Slick roads and slower travel could become the main headache for evening plans.
Weekend Weather Improves Then Turns Unsettled Again
Saturday starts with a 30 percent chance of rain before 10 a.m., followed by partly sunny skies and a high near 70 degrees. Sunday looks mostly sunny and mild, with a high around 71, offering a brief reset between storm systems.
Another round of unsettled weather may arrive Sunday night, with rain possible. Monday is expected to stay mostly cloudy with rain likely and a high near 69, while Tuesday turns mostly sunny but cooler, topping out near 67.
Air Quality Alert Remains In Effect Thursday
An air quality alert covering Downtown LA and nearby communities remains in effect through 11:59 p.m. Thursday because of harmful fine-particle pollution. Sensitive groups, including children, older adults, pregnant people and those with heart or lung conditions, should limit prolonged or intense outdoor activity.
Checking current air-quality readings and keeping windows and doors closed can help when pollution levels are poor. Running an air conditioner or air purifier can also help keep indoor air cleaner.
Beach Hazards Build Into Saturday
Along Los Angeles County beaches, elevated surf and dangerous rip currents are expected through Monday morning, with the largest impacts likely this weekend. Large surf and hazardous coastal conditions are possible along the coast.
Beachgoers should stay near staffed lifeguard areas, avoid rock jetties and never turn their backs on the ocean. With rain, wind and rough surf arriving together, Saturday is shaping up to be a better day for a jacket and a dry indoor plan than a casual beach outing.
