What to Know
- Rain is in the forecast for the next few days, including two intense waves from Thursday evening into Friday and Friday evening into Saturday.
- Evacuation warnings are in effect for communities near some burn scars, including near the Eaton Fire area in Altadena and the Palisades, Hurst and Sunset fire burn zones.
- Showers will linger through the weekend with a chance of rain early next week.
- Snow levels will start at 8,000 feet, lowering to 6,000 feet Thursday night into Friday.
- Half of California is drought-free in mid-November will pockets of moderate to severe drought in Southern California.
A mid-November storm will bring rain in time for the Friday morning drive in Los Angeles and mountain snow in Southern California’s mountains.
The two most intense waves of rain are expected Thursday evening into Friday morning and Friday evening into Saturday. Showers will linger through the weekend with a separate storm arriving early next week.
In the mountains, snow levels will start at 8,000 feet, lowering to 6,000 feet Thursday night into Friday.
Here’s what drivers should know, whether you’re on one of LA’s freeways, canyon roads or mountain passes.
Southern California winter weather driving checklist
The California Highway Patrol offers the following advice when the weather turns wet and snowy. Whether it’s rain, snow, ice or fog, there are a few things to remember on the road.
Check with Caltrans for mountain road closures.
Driving in rain
- The first 10 minutes after the rain begins can be the most dangerous because the rain mixes with oil from motor vehicles and oil from new asphalt resulting in a slippery roadway.
- If you start to hydroplane, ease off the accelerator and steer straight until you gain control.
- Drive with headlights on.
- Apply brakes more slowly.
- Leave extra distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you.
Driving in fog
- Drive with lights on low beam.
- Watch for CHP pace vehicles to guide you through fog.
- Avoid crossing traffic lanes.
- Do not stop on highways except in emergencies.
- Move away from stalled or disabled vehicle.
Driving in snow
- Carry chains in snow conditions, even if vehicle has four-wheel drive.
- Observe speed limit in chain control areas.
- Check owner’s manual for operating tips on your vehicle’s braking system.
- Watch for paddle-shaped markers. They show the edge of the road.
- Studded pneumatic tires may only be used between Nov. 1 and April 31 unless studs are retracted.
- Stay with your vehicle if it breaks down.
Winter weather driving checklist
- Tires with plenty of tread
- Windshield wipers in good condition
- Washer full of fluid.
- Gas tank full
- Defroster working
- Muffler and exhaust in good condition
- Antifreeze in radiator
Items drivers should carry
- Tire chains and tighteners
- Flashlight and batteries
- Flares
- Small shovel
- Windshield scraper
- Warm, waterproof clothing
- Blankets, snacks, and drinking water
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