Rain Threatens Rose Parade as Southern California Braces for New Year’s Storm

Southern Californians recovering from record-breaking christmas rains may face more wet whether as the new year approaches – including a high probability of rain during the Rose parade.

The last time the parade was drenched was in 2006, when sheets of rain soaked the floats and marching bands as they passed poncho-clad spectators along the five-and-a-half-mile route in Pasadena.

Before that,rain hadn’t fallen on the parade as 1955 – and only eight other times since the traditionally flower-decorated floats began rolling in 1890,typically on New Year’s Day,except when January 1st falls on a Sunday.

The New Year’s storm won’t be as severe as the one that created a muddy mess last week,spawning a small tornado in Boyle heights and contributing to five fatalities.

Though, it could dampen the Rose Parade, starting with spectators camping along Colorado boulevard on New Year’s Eve to secure a good viewing spot.

Rain is expected to begin that night, with up to a tenth of an inch, and another half-inch on New Year’s Day, according to Rich Thompson, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.

“People camping out New Year’s Eve for the parade will likely get a little wet,” he said. “During the parade itself, it should be raining, but nothing like what we just experienced – not even in the same ballpark.”

Conditions should remain dry in the meantime, with Santa Ana winds expected through tuesday.

Pasadena Tournament of Roses Assn. officials are remaining optimistic, avoiding “the word that begins with an R.”

“History shows us the sun tends to show up right on time,” said David Eads, the association’s chief executive.”But no matter the weather, we’re prepared. The Rose Parade will be magical, and the Rose Bowl game will be extraordinary.”

If rain occurs, the convertibles in the parade will have their tops up, Eads said. He added that rain is “actually really good for the flowers, which do better in cooler weather.”

This year’s parade theme is “The Magic in Teamwork,” and basketball legend and entrepreneur Earvin “Magic” Johnson is the grand marshal.Interestingly, the 2006 parade theme was also magic-related.

With so much recent rain, officials are monitoring ground saturation and potential impacts on float construction and the parade route.