The Los Angeles area is bracing for its first rainstorm since the recent wildfires erupted, offering a mix of relief and concern. While the rain could help tame the still-active fires and aid in soil recovery, heavy rainfall could introduce a new set of problems, including the potential for dangerous debris flows.
The fire weather alerts have now been replaced by flood watches and winter storm warnings in the mountains, signaling the shift in weather patterns. Here’s what you can expect over the next few days.
The rain will begin gradually on Saturday, with sporadic showers, and then ramp up on Sunday and Monday. Expect widespread rainfall by Sunday, with the likelihood of snow in the mountains as temperatures drop.
By Sunday afternoon and evening, heavier showers are expected, with the possibility of thunderstorms. The main concern with the rain will be the potential for debris flows, particularly in areas that have been scorched by recent wildfires. While light rain might not have a significant impact, the combination of heavy rainfall and weak, fire-damaged soil could lead to hazardous debris flows in some areas.
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The National Weather Service has given a 10% to 20% chance of significant debris flows over the burn scars in Los Angeles County. These areas are under flood watch specifically due to the fire damage—if the fires hadn’t occurred, the rain this weekend would not typically warrant such warnings.
The burn scars currently under flood watch include the Eaton, Palisades, Franklin, Bridge, and Hughes scars. If the rain passes through without triggering major debris flows, it could ultimately benefit the drought-stricken region by replenishing water supplies.
In terms of rainfall, most areas can expect less than an inch, though parts of the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains might see between 1 and 1.5 inches. There is also a chance of lightning, which could result in heavier rain and potentially ignite new fires.
At higher elevations, snow is expected above 4,000 feet, with the San Gabriel Mountains possibly receiving up to 14 inches of snow, along with gusty winds reaching up to 45 mph. The rain is likely to persist intermittently through Sunday morning and into the afternoon, but by Tuesday, the skies should clear, bringing some sunshine to the region.
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