Southern California Braces For December Storms

PALM SPRINGS -Wet and cold weather is likely in Riverside County this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

The agency said the first of two storms will bring mostly light rain and snow to the region Sunday and into early Tuesday. The second storm, which is forecast to be stronger, is expected Thursday and Friday.

“These storms will bring the potential for strong winds, significant rain and snow, and large surf along the coast by the second half of the week,” according to the Weather Service.

Officials at the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway on Mt. San Jacinto are looking forward to the possibility of snow, said spokeswoman Lena Zimmerschied.

“We’re keeping our fingers crossed we’re going to get some,” she said.

Once there is enough snow pack, the tramway’s mountain station offers cross country skis and snow shoes to visitors for rent, Zimmerschied said. Sleds are also for sale.

Major areas of concern include Los Angeles foothill suburbs below the steep slopes of the San Gabriel Mountains, where a summer wildfire burned away 250 square miles of forest vegetation.

The U.S. Geological Survey has warned that storms could unleash huge flows of water laden with mud, rocks and other debris into the communities. Flood control authorities have installed concrete barriers and cleared accumulations of debris from catch basins in preparation for rain.