A trio of storms are expect to move across the Southland as early as Sunday, with snow likely at higher elevations, according to the National Weather Service.
“Sunday will be a transition day as a potent storm system approaches from the northwest,” the NWS said.
This first storm is expected to be the heaviest and produce the greatest overall rainfall totals, with forecasts calling for about 1 to 3 inches in coastal and valley areas and 2 to 5 inches in the mountains by Monday, forecasters said.
The best estimates are calling for 1 to 1.2 inches of rain regionally on Monday, with an added 1.5 to 3 inches of rain likely on Tuesday and Wednesday, and a possibility of 3 to 6 inches of total rain in the mountains, according to the NWS meteorologists.
“Monday has the highest chance for debris flows in the burn areas,” according to the weather agency.
Rainfall is expected to decrease in intensity Monday night into Tuesday, though scattered showers could linger as colder air moves into the region, forecasters said.
Snow levels are forecast to drop from around 6,500 feet early in the storm to near 5,000 feet Tuesday.
A second storm system is expected to arrive Tuesday night into Wednesday, bringing colder temperatures and the potential for additional rain and mountain snow.
Forecasters said snow levels could fall as low as 2,500 to 3,000 feet at times, creating possible travel hazards on mountain roads.
Rainfall amounts could vary significantly, with some locations receiving around a half-inch while others may see 1 to 3 inches, the NWS said.
Thunderstorms combined with strong winds and rough seas could also create dangerous marine conditions early next week, forecasters said.
The third storm system is expected Thursday, but meteorologists say the moisture levels are unconfirmed.
A warm and dry Saturday is expected before Sunday’s powerful storm hits. Skies are expected to be overcast with highs in the 70s.