CALIFORNIA - An upcoming system looks like the final chapter in California’s weeks-long storm pattern, with one last storm lining up to impact the region.
According to AccuWeather meteorologists, the final storm in this multi-week stretch is already churning across the West, and it’s set to hit the state with widespread rain, mountain snow, and renewed flooding risks from Los Angeles to San Diego.
Heavy downpours will blanket much of Southern California through late week, falling on ground that’s already saturated. That’s what raises the concern for flash flooding in low-lying spots and mudslides near recent burn scars.
Some thunderstorms may sneak in as well, bringing gusty winds strong enough to toss around loose holiday decorations. A few of the most intense cells could even spin up a waterspout or brief tornado, the kind that pops quickly and disappears just as fast.
Higher up, the Sierra Nevada and Southern California mountains return to winter mode. Travel through the passes will be tricky at times, with slick roads and periodic closures as snow piles up. Along I-5 and I-15 at lower elevations, it’s mostly rain.
Once the storm pushes inland this weekend, it spreads showers and thunderstorms into southern Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico. Reduced visibility in downpours and pockets of gusty winds could easily disrupt early holiday travel. In the mountains of New Mexico and Colorado, some of that moisture flips to snow.
Then comes the next phase: this same system tracks east as a cross-country storm right into the Thanksgiving travel window. Forecast models show the potential from heavy rain across the South to snow and mixed precipitation near the Canadian border. Even the Atlantic Seaboard may see rain and low clouds that create their own set of delays.
After the storm exits, California shifts into a dry pattern which could introduce Santa Ana winds, especially through passes and canyons including the Grapevine. Gusty, offshore flow is the kind of pattern that dries things out quickly, but also demands extra caution.
The good news? Much of next week looks quieter across the state. Northern California may see the next round of rain after Thanksgiving, but for now, the focus is getting through this final storm in the lineup.
For ongoing updates as this system moves east, be sure to check ANUK.
