Southern California is bracing for its first significant rainfall in months this weekend, bringing both relief and potential risks.
Following a period of critical fire weather conditions fueled by gusty Santa Ana winds, rain is expected to arrive and provide much-needed moisture to the parched region. Up to half an inch of rain could fall in coastal areas and valleys, with foothills and mountains potentially receiving more than an inch, according to AccuWeather.
Why This Matters
Southern California’s drought conditions have worsened in recent months, with almost 70 percent of the state classified as abnormally dry and 40 percent experiencing drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Rainfall will help replenish dry vegetation and improve air quality by clearing ash and particulates, but it also introduces risks in areas where wildfires have destroyed vegetation that typically anchors soil.
What To Know
Rainfall is expected to begin this weekend in California, with the heaviest precipitation likely occurring on Sunday.
In addition to the rain, snow levels are forecast to drop to 4,500 feet on Saturday and could fall as low as 4,000 feet by Saturday night.
This weather event brings both relief and risks as the rainfall may exacerbate challenges in areas devastated by recent wildfires, leading to hazardous conditions.
The Palisades and Eaton fires, the largest of the wildfires, have burned more than 37,000 acres and claimed at least 28 lives. The heavy rain could trigger mudslides and debris flows in burn scar areas, posing new risks to lives and property.
What People Are Saying
California Governor Gavin Newsom wrote on X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday: “Crews are working right now to guard against possible debris flows and mudslides in Southern California. These winter storm events are even more destructive over wildfire-scarred terrain.”
Crews are working right now to guard against possible debris flows and mudslides in Southern California.These winter storm events are even more destructive over wildfire-scarred terrain. pic.twitter.com/mqhNCjwGSY
— Governor Newsom (@CAgovernor) January 22, 2025
In a statement sent to the media, AccuWeather senior meteorologist Heather Zehr said: “Southern California is exceptionally dry right now. The region has barely seen any rainfall since October, when the wet season started. Too much rain falling too quickly in burn scar areas could cause serious problems. People near burn scar areas need to be aware of the threat that dangerous debris flows and mudslides are possible.”
What Happens Next
Fire crews are still battling to put out flames in Los Angeles. As of 8:55 a.m. local time, the Hughes Fire was 56 percent contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
As the rain approaches, residents near burn scar areas have been advised to remain vigilant and prepared for potential evacuations. Drivers should be cautious of slick roads, especially near wildfire zones, where ash and debris could make conditions hazardous.
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