Southern California Braces for Rain at the Start of Thanksgiving Week

As Southern California prepares for the holiday season, residents can expect a rainy start to Thanksgiving week.

Forecasters predict that the region will experience some scattered showers, potentially impacting travel plans and outdoor gatherings as people head into the long weekend.

A Wet Start to the Holiday Week

According to the National Weather Service, rain is expected to begin in parts of Southern California on Monday and continue into Tuesday. The system bringing the showers is a cold front moving in from the Pacific, which will bring cooler temperatures along with the rain.

The heaviest rainfall is expected to occur along the coastal areas and in the mountains, with lighter showers likely in the inland valleys.

Though the rain is not expected to be intense, it could create some challenges for those making their way to Thanksgiving destinations. Drivers should anticipate wet roads and possible delays, especially during peak travel times.

Impact on Travel Plans

Southern California is one of the busiest travel regions in the country during the Thanksgiving holiday. With millions of people expected to take to the roads, the rain could lead to slower-than-usual traffic and hazardous driving conditions, particularly on freeways and in mountain areas where visibility may be reduced.

Those planning to fly or take public transportation can expect some minor delays due to weather, particularly at major airports like Los Angeles International (LAX). Passengers are advised to check flight statuses before heading to the airport.

Preparing for the Weather

For those planning outdoor Thanksgiving activities, it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in case the rain persists. Barbecues, picnics, or outdoor meals may need to be moved indoors, and those planning on hiking or enjoying the outdoors should be mindful of slippery trails and potential flooding in low-lying areas.

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In the mountains, snow is also possible, especially at higher elevations. Snow showers may accumulate in areas like Big Bear and Mount Baldy, which could create an early winter wonderland for those looking to enjoy some outdoor fun in the snow.

Clearing Skies for the Weekend

The good news is that the rain should taper off by Wednesday, giving way to sunnier skies for Thanksgiving Day itself. The National Weather Service forecasts that the rain will end by mid-week, with clearer conditions expected to return just in time for the holiday weekend. This means that while the start of Thanksgiving week will be wet, the latter half should be more favorable for travel and outdoor celebrations.

A Welcome Relief for Drought Conditions

While the rain may cause some inconvenience for travelers, it’s a welcome sight for the region, which has been grappling with drought conditions in recent years. Any rain, particularly in November, helps to replenish the state’s water supply and ease concerns over water shortages. Though this storm won’t be enough to resolve the drought entirely, it’s certainly a step in the right direction.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving week in Southern California will begin with some rain, potentially affecting travel plans and outdoor activities.

Drivers should exercise caution on the roads, particularly during the wet weather early in the week. However, the rain will clear by Wednesday, giving way to pleasant weather for those celebrating Thanksgiving. While the storm may cause a temporary disruption, it also brings a much-needed break in the region’s dry spell and provides a glimpse of the season’s changing weather.