An early season storm is expected to move through Southern California late Monday through Tuesday, prompting flashflood watches for recent burn scars, according to the National Weather Service.
The storm system, approaching from the Pacific Northwest, was expected to bring gusty winds to Santa Barbara County as early as Sunday night as it tracks southward through Tuesday morning and then shifts eastward.
“This cold and dynamic system will bring increasing south winds to much of the area, unseasonably low snow levels around 6,000 feet, rainfall totals ranging from 0.75 inch to 3.5 inches, and widespread thunderstorm chances,” NWS reported. “There is a risk of strong thunderstorms developing at times, with heavy downpours, strong gusty winds and hail.”
Coastal and valley regions could see rainfall totals between 0.75 and 1.5 inches, while the mountains and foothills may receive between 1.5 to 3.5 inches.
Flash flood watches are in effect for recent burn scar areas, with forecasters predicting the potential for significant mud and debris flows caused by rain.
Likely the most significant October storm in 10 years, according to Colin McCarthy at U.S. Storm Watch, it is possible that it will end fire season across most of the state.
Temperatures for Los Angeles are forecast for as low as 51 degrees with highs reaching only about 70 degrees through Wednesday.
Dryer conditions along with a warming trend are expected to take hold Thursday through Saturday.
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