Rain and Wind Comes to Santa Barbara This Week

A moderate to strong winter storm is expected to hit Southwest California, bringing periods of moderate to heavy rain and mountain snow. Travel may be impacted due to the rain, mountain snow, and gusty winds, with the possibility of delayed or hazardous conditions. Minor flooding and shallow debris flows are possible as a result of the storm.

Monday into Tuesday:

Following a warm and dry Sunday, the area will experience a slight cooling on Monday, although temperatures will remain above normal. Southern Los Angeles County, including Catalina Island, may see some light showers late Monday night into Tuesday, with rainfall amounts expected to be a quarter inch or less.

Tuesday will be mostly cloudy, with a slight chance of rain in southern Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, while the best chance of light rain will be in the morning for Los Angeles County.

Wednesday into Thursday:

All eyes are on Wednesday and the predawn hours of Thursday as a cold front approaches the region. The system is expected to bring heavy rain, with impressive moisture levels and strong winds enhancing rainfall rates.

There is the potential for 1-2 inches of rainfall in coastal and valley areas, with 2-4 inches in the foothills and mountains. Snow levels are forecast to drop to around 3000 ft, with significant snow accumulation expected in higher elevations.

Thursday:

Steady rain will transition to showers on Thursday, with snow levels dropping further to around 3000 ft. Lower elevation passes, such as the Grapevine, could see a few inches of snow. Maximum temperatures will be notably lower than normal, in the lower to mid-50s.

Friday and Saturday:

Forecast models show some uncertainty for Friday and Saturday, with a chance of post-frontal rain impulses in the area. The outlook for those days is partly to mostly cloudy with a chance of rain, and temperatures are expected to be warmer but still below normal.

Residents of Southwest California are advised to stay updated on weather alerts and take necessary precautions as the region prepares for the arrival of the winter storm.