Rain Expected in Southern California This Christmas Weekend

LOS ANGELES, CA — Southern California is gearing up for a wet holiday season, with forecasts indicating that rain could arrive as early as this weekend, intensifying on Christmas Day. For those longing for a festive atmosphere, the local mountains may even experience a light snowfall, bringing the dream of a white Christmas to life.

Forecast Details: When Will It Rain?

Meteorologist Ryan Kittell from the National Weather Service (NWS) Los Angeles/Oxnard has indicated a significant probability of rain between December 23 and December 26, with the peak likelihood occurring around Christmas.

“In the spirit of the holiday season, here’s a gift for those who miss rain!” the NWS announced on social media. “All signs are pointing to a pattern shift with widespread rain across the region as early as next weekend, but more likely during the week of Christmas.” Although the overall pattern is clear, precise timing and rainfall amounts remain uncertain.

Rainfall Predictions

Kittell noted that residents should prepare for a wet Christmas, with anticipated rain totals ranging between 2 and 4 inches. While the specifics of the forecast will continue to evolve, he emphasizes that both light and heavy rain are possible.

Snowfall Possibilities in Local Mountains

As for snowfall, it’s still too early to definitively predict conditions in mountainous areas, such as Mount Baldy or Big Bear. However, any potential snowfall is expected to be limited to elevations of 7,000 feet or higher, according to Kittell.

Regional Insights and Weather Advisories

Kyle Wheeler, a meteorologist with the NWS San Diego, mentioned that counties like Orange, Riverside, and San Diego will likely see higher chances of rain as Christmas approaches. “I would say better chances than not that we will have some rain,” Wheeler stated, while acknowledging that uncertainty remains in the forecast as Christmas approaches.

Residents should expect clearer weather projections by the weekend. In the interim, San Diego and Orange counties are currently under a fog advisory until mid-morning Wednesday, warning of potentially hazardous driving conditions due to low visibility.

Wind Advisory in Los Angeles County

On the other hand, Los Angeles County is under a wind advisory, with gusts reaching up to 40 mph throughout the day. The NWS cautions that “gusty winds may blow around unsecured objects,” with the possibility of downed tree limbs and minor power outages.

Stay tuned for further updates as Southern California braces for a potentially rainy and festive holiday season. Check back for more information on the latest weather developments!