Storm Brings Chance of Thunderstorms, Weak Tornadoes to Southern California
Unsettled Weather Pattern Ahead
A storm system is moving down the coast, bringing rain to Southern California on Wednesday, along with a chance of thunderstorms and a “remote risk of tornadoes” by Thursday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
Rain and Thunderstorms Expected
“The rain will reach L.A. County around noon. Rain will turn to showers during the afternoon everywhere except L.A. County, where steady rain will linger into the evening,” the NWS said in its forecast discussion Wednesday morning.
Impacts to Expect
* 10 to 20% chance of shallow debris flows
* Small hail and gusty winds
* Possibly severe storms with a remote risk of tornadoes
Amount of Rain Expected
The NWS says the system will not be a significant rainmaker, producing only a third to two-thirds of an inch of rain. There is a 10 to 20% chance of thunderstorms with heavy downpours that could allow some local amounts to reach between 1 and 2 inches.
Weak Tornadoes Possible on Thursday
“Thursday there’s just enough instability in the atmosphere that we’re seeing isolated chances of thunderstorms and potentially even weak tornadoes,” said KTLA’s Kirk Hawkins.
Snowfall Expected
Snow totals should remain between 2 and 5 inches for elevations above the 4,500-foot mark.
Return to Dry and Clear Skies
Dry and clear skies are likely to return Friday afternoon through Sunday, before another series of storms arrives next week.
Next Week’s Weather
Light to moderate showers are forecast to return overnight Sunday through Tuesday, with a stronger storm bringing potentially heavy rain next Wednesday and Thursday.
Conclusion
The storm system moving down the coast will bring a mix of rain, thunderstorms, and a remote risk of weak tornadoes to Southern California. While the NWS expects only minor impacts, residents in burn areas should be prepared for possible debris and mud flows.
FAQs
* What is the chance of debris flows? 10 to 20%
* What is the amount of rain expected? A third to two-thirds of an inch
* Is there a risk of weak tornadoes? Yes, on Thursday
* When will the weather return to dry and clear skies? Friday afternoon through Sunday
