A powerful storm is expected to sweep through the Inland Empire for the next three days, with heavy rainfall and dangerous flooding coming to parts of Riverside County.
The storm will deliver prolonged periods of rain and mountain snow, with gusty south winds in the deserts, according to the National Weather Service.
Rainfall rates for Sunday night through Tuesday morning are expected to be 2.5 to 5 inches per hour for the Inland Empire, and 2-4 inches per hour for the Riverside County mountains.
More sporadic periods of rainfall will continue Tuesday until Friday.
Snow levels will rise to 7,000-8,000 feet Sunday night through Monday evening, falling to around 5,500 feet by Tuesday afternoon.
A flood watch was in effect from noon Sunday until 4 a.m. Tuesday in the Inland Empire, which include the cities of Moreno Valley, Palm Springs, Riverside, Corona, Cathedral City and Palm Desert. Forecasters warned of possibly excessive runoff that could result in flooded rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying areas.
“Conditions quickly, and severely, deteriorate tonight into Monday morning across Orange County and western portions of the Inland Empire and San Bernardino County Mountains. Precipitation intensity will only increase across these areas on Monday, and life-threatening flash flooding will be possible,” according to the NWS.
The weather service also warned of an “atmospheric river” — large amounts of water vapors and strong winds released in the form of rain or snow.
Daytime temperatures in Riverside County are expected to be in the high 50s, dipping into the high 40s Sunday night. South wind gusts up to 35 mph were expected Sunday night in the valleys, and up to 40 mph in the mountains.
A winter storm warning will be in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday. Forecasters predict dry and milder weather after Saturday.
The Riverside County Fire Department was providing a limited number of sandbags per household to reduce or prevent flood water damage. Residents were advised to contact the nearest fire department location.
For more information, visit linktr.ee/calfirerru.