More wet weather is on the way to Southern California, with heavy rain in the Long Beach area expected Thursday and into Friday.
The system moving into Southern California from the north was described by the National Weather Service as “cold, showery and blustery.” A high surf advisory and winter storm warning were in effect, though Long Beach officials said that due to the direction of the swell, impacts are not expected on local beaches.
Heavy snow and wind were also expected, about 4 to 8 inches above 4,500 feet, and 2 to 4 inches between 3,000 and 4,500 feet. Gusts were expected to reach 65 mph, the NWS said. The winds, low visibility and icy roads will make for dangerous driving conditions that could lead to road closures and travel delays, including along Interstate 5 through the Grapevine.
The weather service also warned that extended exposure to cold and wind could be life-threatening. Los Angeles County health officials issued a cold weather alert through Thursday for the mountains and Antelope Valley, and through Tuesday for the Santa Monica Mountains and the Santa Clarita Valley.
Along the coast, health officials cautioned residents that bacteria, chemicals, debris, trash, and other public health hazards from city streets and mountain areas are likely to contaminate ocean waters at and around discharging storm drains, creeks, and rivers after the recent rainfall. Individuals who enter the water in these areas could become ill.
In Long Beach, the NWS predicted a 40% chance of rain on Wednesday, an 90% chance on Thursday and 80% chance on Friday. It will also be cold; highs each day will be around 59 degrees, with lows in the 40s.
The weather is expected to clear this weekend, with partly cloudy skies Saturday and Sunday, and highs in the low 60s.
Long Beach officials said sand is available at the Long Beach Public Works/Public Service Yard, 1651 San Francisco Ave., at the Esther Street Gate, as well as at the following Long Beach fire stations:
- Station 7, 2295 Elm St.
- Station 12, 1199 Artesia Blvd.
- Station 13, 2475 Adriatic Ave.
- Station 14, 5200 Eliot St.
Bags for sand are available at all neighborhood fire stations and the Lifeguard Station located at 72nd Place. Sand and bags are available for Long Beach residents only.
City News Service contributed to this report.