Brief dry spell is forecast before rain resumes late Thursday in Southern California
The spectacular thunderstorms with their accompanying downpours that boomed across Southern California are mostly gone, but don’t throw your umbrella or mittens into the back of the closet just yet — more rain and snow are expected Thursday night into Friday.
And then, what the National Weather Service is calling “a chance of showers” will follow late Saturday through Wednesday.
These new storms do not appear to be as powerful as the one that dazzled with its lightning. There were no flood, wind or winter weather advisories Wednesday night, although heavy rain was reported in some areas. High temperatures were forecast to be below normal in the next week: in the high 50s and low 60s.
The storm Tuesday and Wednesday led to a moderate amount of trouble beyond the usual spate of traffic collisions, including a rockslide that closed part of Malibu Canyon and the rescue of someone from a flood control channel near Ontario International Airport
Chain controls were in effect for a time Wednesday in the mountains. California Highway Patrol and Caltrans officials advised travelers there to be prepared by always carrying snow chains. They also suggest that drivers keep emergency supplies — such as extra food, water, clothing and blankets — in their vehicles just in case they become stuck for an extended period of time.
Here are some two-day rainfall totals from the weather service: Middle Fork of Lytle Creek, 3.12 inches; Wrightwood, 2.39 inches; Cucamonga Canyon, 1.65 inches; Pasadena, 1.25 inches; Santiago Peak, 1.18 inches; Whittier, 1.08 inches; Yorba Linda, 1.02 inches; Cal State San Bernardino, 0.98 inches; Fullerton, 0.95 inches; Riverside Municipal Airport, 0.70 inches; John Wayne Airport, 0.43 inches; Perris Cal Fire headquarters, 0.35 inches; Temecula, 0.16 inches.
A trace of snow was seen in many mountain communities. Snow levels may fall to between 4,000 and 4,500 feet Friday, and a few inches of snow are possible. More strong winds are forecast for the mountains and High Desert.