Thunderstorms and Temperature Drops Ahead

Residents of Southern California should prepare for a shift in weather conditions this weekend, as the National Weather Service warns of impending thunderstorms and a noticeable drop in temperatures.

Low-Pressure Systems at Play

Following a week marked by mild weather, a low-pressure system that arrived on Thursday is expected to progress eastward into Arizona. This movement may lead to increased instability and elevate the risk of showers and thunderstorms, particularly in the mountainous areas.

The weather service highlights that flash flooding and debris flows are significant concerns, especially in regions affected by previous wildfires.

Anticipated Rainfall and Snow

A second low-pressure system is anticipated to impact the area on Saturday, potentially thickening the marine layer. Coastal regions are likely to experience light rain or drizzle, especially during the Saturday morning hours and into Sunday.

• Highest precipitation expected in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
• Rainfall accumulations are forecasted to remain under a tenth of an inch.
• Mountain areas may receive 0.50 inch of rain and 2 to 5 inches of snow at elevations around 5,500 feet.

Wind and Temperature Expectations

Gusty winds are predicted, with speeds reaching 25 to 45 mph along coastal areas, particularly affecting the Central Coast and southwestern Santa Barbara. Inland valleys, mountains, and desert regions may experience gusts up to 35 mph.

By Sunday, temperatures are expected to decline to a 60- to 70-degree range, approximately 10 degrees below the seasonal average.

Long-Term Weather Outlook

As reported by Scott Handel, a forecaster at the federal Climate Prediction Center, an upper-level trough will keep temperatures cooler than usual in California until at least mid-May. “The flow is cut off from the main storm track, which is why we’re seeing this kind of unsettled weather reach deeper into California than usual for May,” he explained to the San Francisco Chronicle.