Cold Weather Pushes Into Southern California, Coachella Valley

A cold storm system that will drop the snow level to an unusually low 2,000 feet could leave more than a dusting in some parts of Riverside County, a weather forecaster said today.

The center mass of the fast-moving storm is expected to reach the Inland region late tonight and will include periods of heavy rain through Saturday, along with gusty winds and temperatures 20 to 25 degrees below average for this time of year, according to the National Weather Service.

“It’s going to be quite cold,” said NWS meteorologist Mike Watkins. “You’re looking at a couple of inches of snow possible Saturday at 2,000 feet, 6 to 12 inches at 5,500 feet.”

He said wintry conditions could make travel difficult in and around the San Bernardino and San Jacinto mountains. A winter storm watch for the mountains is in effect from tonight through Saturday night.

The temperature is expected to peak at 45 degrees in Riverside tomorrow – – 25 degrees below normal.

A flash flood warning is in effect throughout the Inland Empire from 10 tonight to early Saturday morning.

Forecasters predict 1 to 2 inches of rain, with periodic heavy downpours. Rapid runoff could trigger flooding on low-lying streets, and people were urged to take precautions.

According to Watkins, as the storm front sweeps to the east, high winds will follow. He said gusts could reach 50 mph in some areas.

There was also a possibility of thunderstorms behind the unstable air mass.

Watkins said the inclement weather should clear off completely by Sunday afternoon.