Winter storm brings flooding to Southern California
A winter storm is bringing a 30% to 40% chance of thunderstorms and widespread minor flooding to Southern California from Wednesday late morning to Thursday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. The incoming weather system carries rain probabilities reaching up to 95% in cities like Anaheim, Irvine, and San Clemente by Wednesday evening.
The Los Angeles-Oxnard office of the National Weather Service identified the Santa Monica Mountains as the area at highest risk for flooding and debris flows across L.A. and Ventura counties. Precipitation chances on Wednesday morning sit at 53% in Irvine and Anaheim, 46% in San Clemente, 44% in Ontario, and 40% in Riverside. Those percentages climb sharply Wednesday evening into Thursday morning, with Anaheim, Irvine, and San Clemente reaching 95%, Ontario at 92%, Riverside and Lake Elsinore at 91%, and San Bernardino at 88%.
Coastal Hazards and Beach Warnings
Coastal areas face significant wave action alongside inland precipitation. Surf ranging from 3 to 6 feet is expected through Thursday night on south- and southwest-facing beaches across Los Angeles County and the Oxnard region, with tides projected between 5.5 and 6.2 feet.
The National Weather Service’s San Diego office issued a beach hazard warning covering Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, and San Diego counties. That notice remains in effect until 11 p.m., cautioning residents about dangerous rip currents capable of pulling swimmers out to sea. The agency advises the public to remain out of the water to avoid hazardous swimming conditions and warns that breaking waves can wash people off beaches and rocks while capsizing small boats near the shore.
Winter Storm Dynamics Across Regional Outlets
While the National Weather Service’s Los Angeles-Oxnard office anticipates only minor impacts for most communities, the system brings both rain and mountain snow potential to the wider region.
Which areas face flooding and surf risks?
Which specific areas face the highest risk of flooding?
The Santa Monica Mountains represent the zone of highest concern for flooding and debris flows in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, according to the National Weather Service.
What are the expected surf heights along the coast?
South- and southwest-facing beaches in Los Angeles County and the Oxnard region expect surf between 3 and 6 feet through Thursday night, paired with tides ranging from 5.5 to 6.2 feet.
When does the heaviest precipitation arrive?
Rain chances increase significantly on Wednesday evening and continue into Thursday morning, with precipitation probabilities hitting 95% in Anaheim, Irvine, and San Clemente.