Flash Flooding and Thunderstorms Possible as a Winter Storm Comes to the Area

Authorities raised a flash flood watch Tuesday morning over much of Southern California due to heavy rainfall associated with an approaching thunderstorm as a cold front pushes through the region.

The National Weather Service said the warning would remain in effect until 10 p.m. Tuesday. The NWS also issued a wind advisory that’s in place until noon, as the agency predicted southeast to south winds from 15 to 30 mph and gusts up to 45 mph which could make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Drivers are advised to “check the latest road conditions before departing for your destination,” the NWS said, as the storms could cause numerous road closures and traffic delays.

As the storm pushes slowly across the region, it could result in higher rainfall totals in some areas. The flash flood watch covers Los Angeles County Coast including Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles County Mountains, Los Angeles County San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles County San Gabriel Valley, Santa Clarita Valley, and the Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area.

Showers are expected Tuesday night with the possibly a thunderstorm before 10 p.m. Lows will be around 43 with a west northwest wind of about five mph later in the evening.

By Wednesday, high pressure starts to build, resulting in dry weather and clear skies over Pasadena and the rest of the region. Highs will be near 66 with a calm wind becoming west southwest around five mph in the afternoon.