Storm Weaker Than Expected, Rain Still Possible Across Orange County

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA — With a storm that turns out to be weaker than had been expected it still generated rainfall over a wide area, threatening to unleash mud and debris down slopes denuded by wildfires but only if thunderstorms develop, according to the National Weather Service.

This week's storms -- one passed through the region Sunday and Monday -- are generating the first of the fall rains in Southern California.

The National Weather Service forecast showers in Orange County Friday and highs of 71 in Newport Beach and San Clemente; 73 in Laguna Beach; 75 in Anaheim and Yorba Linda; and 76 in Fullerton, Irvine and Mission Viejo. Beyond Friday, no precipitation is in Orange County's forecast over the next several days, and highs will be in the mid 60s to low 70s.

Amid moderate temperatures, the snow level will remain at a high 10,000 feet, forecasters said.

The NWS forecast showers in L.A. County Friday -- a slight retreat from Thursday, when Friday's forecast had been for rain -- and highs of 67 on Mount Wilson; 71 at LAX and in Saugus; 72 in Avalon, Palmdale and Lancaster; 73 in San Gabriel and Burbank; 74 in downtown L.A.; 75 in Long Beach and Pasadena; and 76 in Woodland Hills.

Showers are in L.A. County's forecast through Sunday. Highs will range between the mid 60s and low 70s over the next several days.

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