Additional Coverage:
- California storm timeline: Evacuation warnings, road closures in place ahead of powerful SoCal storm system (themirror.com)
California Braces for Week of Heavy Storms, Flood and Mudslide Threat Looms
California is preparing for a turbulent week as a series of powerful winter storms are forecast to bring heavy rain and significant snowfall, raising concerns about flash floods and mudslides across the state. Travel disruptions are expected to be widespread and could persist for several days.
The succession of back-to-back storms is projected to impact the entire state. The activity began over the weekend in northwestern California and is now moving into the southern regions. Forecasters indicate that the combined rainfall and mountain snowfall from these systems could equate to a month’s worth of precipitation.
Southern California is set to experience the first of three significant storms on Monday. This initial system, anticipated to be the strongest, is predicted to deliver 1 to 3 inches of rain to coastal and valley areas, with mountainous regions potentially receiving 2 to 5 inches, according to the National Weather Service.
Rainfall is expected to continue across Southern California through Monday night and into Tuesday, though with decreased intensity, accompanied by colder temperatures. A wind advisory was issued for Monday, effective from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
A second storm is slated to arrive in Southern California on Tuesday night and extend into Wednesday, bringing continued cold temperatures and strong wind gusts. Details regarding a potential third storm system expected on Thursday are still emerging.
In response to the impending weather, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass urged residents to take precautions. “Ahead of heavy rain forecasted this week, first responders, Public Works crews, and city personnel are taking action to keep Angelenos safe and will be ready to respond to any potential impact,” Mayor Bass stated Saturday night.
She emphasized, “This is likely to be another significant rain event. All Angelenos – especially those in burn scar areas – are encouraged to follow official guidance, use caution on the roads, plan ahead, and stay informed.”
Northern California Also Facing Significant Winter Conditions
Northern California is also experiencing substantial winter weather this week. The first storm began on Sunday, affecting Northern California and the Central Coast with moderate to heavy rainfall.
This storm, which was expected to continue into Monday, could lead to several inches of water accumulation, causing localized flooding in areas with poor drainage and minor debris flows. The Bay Area, in particular, could see significant water accumulation, as San Francisco typically receives only 4 inches of rain for the entire month of February.
Meanwhile, the Sierra Nevada mountain range is preparing for heavy snowfall, with projections of 4 to 8 feet at higher elevations and up to 1 foot at lower elevations. This heavy snowfall is expected to severely disrupt travel, creating hazardous conditions on major routes such as Interstate 80, Highway 50, and parts of Interstate 5.
The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office, encompassing parts of the Sierra Nevada, issued a warning to residents, advising them to prepare their homes for the wet weather and to check road conditions before venturing out. “It has seemed ‘spring-like’ for a large part of 2026, but winter is set to show it’s not quite done yet,” the sheriff’s office noted in its statement.