LOS ANGELES (CNS) – The Southland could be in for a “significant” soaking of rain over the next few days, although forecasters were still uncertain Wednesday exactly how much precipitation will fall and which areas might get the brunt of the downpours.
“What we are certain about is it’s going to rain between Thursday and Saturday, and potentially into Sunday morning, and there will be periods of moderate to heavy rain,” according to the National Weather Service. “But exactly where and how much has become a little bit fuzzy again.
“As usual, it’s best to be over-prepared than under prepared,” the NWS advised. “Check to make sure your gutters are cleared, your windshield wipers are secure, and try to make alternate plans if your Thursday through Saturday activities are supposed to be held outdoors. During the rain, do not drive through flooded roads, as only a few inches of water can move a car, and make sure to go indoors if you hear thunder. Listen to any instructions local authorities tell you, and lastly, make sure you have multiple ways to receive weather related alerts.”
The region began experiencing a change in the weather Wednesday, with increasing clouds leading to cooler temperatures, which were expected to top out in the 60s and 70s.
The exact timing of the rain was a little uncertain, with forecasters saying the most recent models suggest precipitation beginning along the Central Coast by late Thursday morning, eventually reaching Ventura and Los Angeles counties Thursday night to early Friday morning.
Overall, coastal and valley locations are expected to see 1 to 2 inches of rain, but mountains and foothills could see 2 to 5 inches.
“With the available moisture being transported into the region, this brings flooding concerns across the region, especially those south-southwest facing mountain slopes,” according to the NWS.
Forecasters said rain could fall at a rate as high as 0.75 inches per hour, although higher rates are possible if any thunderstorms develop.
The forecast again prompted the NWS to warn of possible debris flows in and around recent burn areas.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department issued a statement Wednesday urging people to be prepared, offering a series of tips:
— Drive carefully, slow down and allow extra stopping distance;
— avoid flooded roads, turn around, wait it out;
— prepare your property by gathering sand bags, and checking gutters and drains; and
— check the condition of your vehicle and replace windshield wipers and tires if needed.
Sheriff’s officials urged people to use websites like http://Ready.Lacounty.gov to stay up to date on road closures, weather alerts, and emergency notifications.
“Our deputies will be out monitoring conditions and ensuring community safety,” according to the department. “Let’s all do our part to stay safe during the storm.”
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