Cold Storm Packs Unexpected Wallop

LOS ANGELES, CA- Scattered showers are falling across the Southland today from a cold front packing an unusually high volume of moisture for this time of the year.

Forecasters said thunderstorms are possible, especially in the San Gabriel Mountains and the Antelope Valley, where a flash flood watch is in effect until 8 p.m.

With upper-level winds expected to be weak, the storm is likely to be slow-moving, generating rainfall rates exceeding an inch per hour, according to a National Weather Service statement.

"Any storm that forms may produce dangerous lightning, gusty winds, heavy showers, and hail," the weather service warned. "Heavier showers may result in localized flooding of roadways, small creeks, and old burn areas. Outdoor activities such as hiking and boating will be especially affected."

In addition to flash-flooding, the storm could unleash slides of rocks and mud and debris flows over slopes denuded by wildfires, the statement said.

While the greatest risk of thunderstorms was in the San Gabriel Mountains and Antelope Valley, "a few could drift into the adjacent valleys and even coastal areas," and "there will be a slight chance for thunderstorms just about anywhere" today, according to the NWS.

That prospect also threatened mariners today, with forecasters warning of isolated thunderstorms over coastal waters.

"Any thunderstorms that form will be capable of producing locally gusty winds and rough seas, dangerous lightning, small hail and heavy rainfall, with reduced visibility," a statement said.

The NWS forecast mostly showers today and highs of 56 on Mount Wilson; 64 in Palmdale; 65 in Laguna Beach, Avalon, Burbank, Saugus, Lancaster and at LAX; 66 in San Gabriel and San Clemente; 67 in Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Long Beach and Pasadena; 68 in Fullerton, Irvine, downtown L.A. and Woodland Hills; 69 in Anaheim; and 70 in Yorba Linda.

Similar temperatures are expected Saturday, but with fewer showers.

City News Service; Photo by Jennifer Cook