One of the most powerful storms of the year is expected to hit Long Beach and much of Southern California this week, with heavy rain and possibly thunderstorms predicted for Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.

The NWS said there is a 20% chance of rain Monday morning, and 70% chance by the evening. The chance of rain Tuesday is 100%, with possible thunderstorms and wind gusts of up to 20 mph.

Temperatures all week are expected to be in the mid-60s, with lows in the mid- to low-50s.

The rain will taper off during the week, with a 60% chance of rain Wednesday, and a slight chance of rain Thursday through Sunday.

After a strong start to the rain year, which begins Oct. 1, the Southern California region was parched in January and February. So far this year, Long Beach Airport has measured 8.17 inches of rain, which is about 82% of normal, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Average rainfall for the entire year is 12.26 inches.