Pacific Storm Threatens Torrential Rain and Snow in California as Major Travel Delays Loom

Pacific Storm in California to Bring Torrential Rain

Urban Flooding Risk

Delays on Roads and Flights

A powerful storm system is moving in from the Pacific toward the U.S. West Coast and is expected to impact California between Wednesday night and Thursday, according to meteorologists from AccuWeather. The system will bring intense rainfall, mountain snow, and travel complications both by road and air for several days.

The cold front will cause a sharp drop in temperatures across the Sierra Nevada, where snow accumulation could exceed 12 inches (30 centimeters) in the highest elevations. In ridgelines above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters), blizzard conditions and near-zero visibility are expected, experts warned.

“Travelers should stay alert to the latest weather conditions and be prepared for snow-covered roads and possible closures,” cautioned Heather Zehr, senior meteorologist at AccuWeather.

At Donner Pass, one of the busiest stretches along Interstate 80, a mix of rain and wet snow is expected from Wednesday night into Thursday. During the final phase of the storm, falling temperatures will cause rain to turn into heavier, more hazardous snow for drivers.

Heavy Rain and Winds to Impact Major Cities in California as Pacific Storm Approaches

Pacific storm in California will cause travel delays-Photo: Shutterstock

In Northern California, San Francisco and the Bay Area will see the heaviest rainfall between Wednesday night and Thursday morning. Farther south, Los Angeles will experience intensifying rain during Thursday’s evening rush hour, while San Diego will get its heaviest showers later that night.

“In the Los Angeles area, the rain is expected to be most intense during the Thursday afternoon rush hour,” Zehr added.

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Rain totals will vary by region: between 0.5 and 1 inch in Los Angeles, around 1 inch in San Francisco, and up to 4 inches in the mountainous areas of Northern California. AccuWeather’s local forecast sets a StormMax of 6 inches in the hardest-hit zones.

Along with the rain, strong winds are expected along the coast and through mountain passes, heightening the risk of accidents and airport delays. Authorities warn of potential flash flooding and landslides in areas with already saturated soil.

Possible Thunderstorms in the Southwest Deserts

The system will also affect the deserts of the southwestern United States over the weekend. Tropical moisture from the Pacific could bring torrential rainfall from southern California to Arizona and New Mexico, with a risk of urban flooding.

The cities of Las Vegas, Phoenix, Flagstaff, Tucson, and Las Cruces could experience heavy rain between Friday night and Saturday. Despite the risks, meteorologists note that the rain could help ease drought conditions in parts of the desert.

“Motorists should be prepared to drive in heavy rain, with low visibility and water pooling on roads,” warned AccuWeather.

Interstate highways 5, 10, 15, and 40 will be among the most affected by wet conditions, wind, and dropping temperatures. Authorities recommend avoiding non-essential travel and following weather updates to prevent emergencies.

Second storm on the way

The forecast also includes a second, weaker storm expected to arrive on Friday, bringing more snow to mountain passes.

Authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution and note that partial road closures could extend into the weekend.

The weather system marks the beginning of a series of winter fronts that will affect the region throughout November.

For meteorologists, this event will be key to measuring the intensity of the rainy season in California and across the western United States, according to AccuWeather.