Powerful winds lashed the Southland early today but then died down as a fast-moving Pacific storm system was clearing out of the region.
The rain, which began showing up yesterday afternoon, should be gone by 11 a.m., said NWS meteorologist Andrew Rorke, adding that the system is projected to have generated between a half-inch and three quarters of an inch of rain by the time it departs.
Dr. Jeffrey Gunzenhauser warned beachgoers not to use the water near storm drains, creeks and rivers in order to avoid bacteria, debris and trash. The county’s rain advisory will be in effect until 5 p.m. Saturday.
A high wind warning reflecting forecaster expectation of gusts of at least 58 mph was to have been in effect until 10 a.m. today in the Antelope Valley and San Gabriel Mountains, and a less serious wind advisory was issued, also intended to stay in effect until until 10 a.m., for the Santa Monica Mountains Recreational area and the Santa Clarita Valley. But the warning and advisory were cancelled before they were due to expire.
A high surf advisory will be in effect from 4 p.m. today until 4 p.m. Friday along the L.A. County coastline, where breakers of 6 to 8 feet are expected.
“Large waves and strong rip currents will increase the risk of ocean drowning. Sneaker waves can suddenly wash people off of beaches and rock jetties. Minor beach erosion is possible,” an NWS statement said.
Swimmers caught in a rip current are urged to swim parallel to shore until able to break free.
Additionally, a small craft advisory warning boaters of perilous conditions will be in effect from 3 p.m. today until 3 p.m. Saturday.
The NWS forecast highs of 57 on Mount Wilson and in Palmdale; 58 in Lancaster; 61 in Avalon; 64 in Saugus; 65 in Long Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach and at LAX; 66 in San Clemente, San Gabriel and Burbank; 67 in downtown L.A., Pasadena and Woodland Hills; 68 in Fullerton, Anaheim and Irvine; and 71 in Yorba Linda.
Temperatures will be the same or slightly higher Friday, but under sunny skies, then increase steadily — still under sunny skies — reaching the mid 80s Monday and decreasing slightly Wednesday, according to NWS forecasters.
