Plummeting Temperatures, 55MPH Winds, Lots Of Rain As Winter Storm Hits RSM

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA —Orange County authorities cautioned residents ahead of what could possibly be the coldest storm to hit the area in several years, the National Weather Service said.

A flurry of warnings were issued for Orange County in anticipation for the storm beginning Tuesday night through to Saturday afternoon including winter storm, high winds and dangerous surf warnings.

“The coldest storm of the season, and possibly of the last several years is expected to impact southwest #CAwx Wed-Fri or Sat with showers across coasts and valleys with mainly snow across the mountains and deserts,” NWS said on Twitter.

Residents were advised to take caution. The winter storm will likely disrupt travel, infrastructure, livestock and recreation in heavily affected areas.

The extreme weather prompted weather officials to issue several advisories for Orange County, including in Rancho Santa Margarita.

Residents can also expect significantly colder temperatures going 10 to 20 degrees below normal, NWS said.

A Wind Advisory was issued from Tuesday night to Wednesday evening in anticipation of winds ranging from 25 to 35 miles per hour, and wind gusts reaching up to 55 miles per hour.

"Gusty winds could blow down unsecured objects," a NWS statement said. "Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high-profile vehicle."

In addition, the NWS issued a High Surf Advisory throughout Coastal Orange County from Tuesday night to 3 a.m. Thursday due to large breaking ways of six to 10 feet, with sets up to 14 feet.

The highest surf is projected to be in San Diego County, but Orange County residents are strongly urged to keep out of the water.

"Dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and beach erosion, with coastal flooding possible during high tide Wednesday morning," the statement said. "It is advisable from swimmers and surfers to remain out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions."

Along with wind and high surf, residents can expect rain showers to start anywhere between Tuesday night and Wednesday night.

On Wednesday, residents will likely experience a sunny morning before afternoon clouds set in.

Temperatures are projected to remain in the low-'50s throughout the day, with the chance of precipitation at 50 percent Wednesday night.

Residents can continue to expect rain through Thursday, with the heaviest rainfall possible on Friday night and Saturday morning.