Atmospheric River Storm Brings Less Precipitation to Southern California
The atmospheric river storm that dumped record rain in Northern California is expected to bring much less precipitation to Southern California. According to Joe Sirard, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard, the storm has weakened and is now moving down the coast, with its last gasp expected to reach Los Angeles County by midday.
Rainfall Expectations
Los Angeles and Ventura counties are expected to see anywhere from a tenth to a third of an inch of rain, while San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties could see up to an inch in some areas. The Rocky Butte weather station in far northwestern San Luis Obispo County has already recorded over three inches of rain by 9 a.m.
Second Round of Rain Expected
A second round of rain is expected to begin on Sunday in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties and then move south, potentially reaching Los Angeles County by Sunday night or Monday. There is a 40% to 50% chance of more rain, with showers potentially lingering until Wednesday. There is also a slight chance of rain on Thanksgiving Day in San Luis Obispo County.
Rainfall Totals
The second storm system could produce rainfall totals of half an inch to an inch for San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, a third to a half an inch for Ventura County, and a tenth to a quarter of an inch for Los Angeles County.
Flooding and Traffic Concerns
Chances are low of dangerous flooding or any other significant issues in Southern California, but roads could become slick and snarl traffic. However, residents living near the Portuguese Bend landslide area in Rancho Palos Verdes are concerned about the impact of increased rainfall on the ongoing land movement.
Winterization Efforts
City officials are hopeful that extensive winterization efforts, including improving drainage and lining canyon walls, can help minimize the effect of any new rain. Many of these projects have been completed, but some remain underway. The goal is to "best prepare ourselves for the wet weather season ahead," said David Copp, the city’s deputy public works director.
Conclusion
The atmospheric river storm that brought record rain to Northern California is expected to bring much less precipitation to Southern California. While some areas may still see significant rainfall, the overall impact is expected to be minor. Residents are advised to be prepared for rain and potential traffic disruptions, but the risk of flooding or other significant issues is low.
FAQs
Q: What is the expected rainfall in Los Angeles and Ventura counties?
A: Expect 0.1 to 0.3 inches of rain.
Q: What is the expected rainfall in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties?
A: Expect up to 1 inch in some areas, with a second round of rain expected to bring additional 0.5 to 1 inch.
Q: Is there a risk of flooding in Southern California?
A: The risk is low, but roads could become slick and snarl traffic.
Q: What is the impact of the rain on the Portuguese Bend landslide area?
A: Increased rainfall could worsen the ongoing land movement, but city officials are hopeful that winterization efforts will minimize the effect.
