Pleasant & Mild Until Widespread Rain Arrives Christmas Eve

Enjoy our last few dry and pleasant days as we start the workweek with mild temperatures and upper-level clouds. A moderate-strength atmospheric river will set its sights on Southern California starting tomorrow. There are already a number of flood watches spanning virtually the entire region in anticipation of the wet weather. The Flood Watch for the Coachella Valley will take effect at 4 PM tomorrow (Tuesday) and remain in place through 10 PM Wednesday (times subject to change). Expect cloudy conditions and a small chance for light showers on Tuesday.

The bulk of the wet weather will move into Southern California on Wednesday, Christmas Eve. Heavy rain will move in throughout the morning and will continue into the afternoon as well. There will likely be a few lingering rain showers throughout the day on Thursday (Christmas Day). There is a lot of spread in the models in terms of rainfall totals. Most estimates have Palm Springs receiving between .75 and 1.5 inches of rain. Other areas in the valley are likely to receive different amounts. These numbers are only an estimate!

A First Alert Weather Alert will be in place for Wednesday and Thursday as we track an incoming atmospheric river. All hazards are on the table with this event. Expect snow in the mountains and the potential for flooding locally. Skies will stay cloudy into next week with occasional chances for more rain. Temperatures will stay cool as well.