Several storms are expected to bring two inches of rain Santa Clarita Valley this coming week.

A series of storm systems are lining up across the Pacific Ocean and will affect much of the forecast area through next week.

Southwestern California can expect between two to three-and-a-half inches of rain across coast and valleys through Friday and between three to five inches across the mountains. Six inches of rain is expected across southwest facing coastal slopes including the Santa Ynez and San Gabriel Mountains.

This much rain in a short period of time could bring flooding and debris flows from recent burn areas.

The first storm which arrives Sunday afternoon or evening will bring some periods of heavy rain across Los Angeles and Ventura counties with less intensity to the north.

However, a more significant storm will be right on its heels Tuesday morning. This system will tap into a more subtropical air mass allowing for higher rainfall rates and rainfall totals. Tuesday morning through Tuesday evening will be the time period where the potential for flash flooding from debris flows will be high.

There will be a brief lull between storms Tuesday night into Wednesday morning when another significant storm moves into the region. Expect periods of heavy rain through Wednesday night where additional flooding is possible. Rain will taper off to showers by Thursday but there will be enough cold air associated with the upper low that some thunderstorms will be possible.

Snow levels will generally be between 5000 and 6000 feet with these storms except lowering to between 3500 and 4500 feet Wednesday night through Friday. Expecting around two feet of new snow for mountain areas above 6000 feet. Driving conditions could be hazardous next week. Snow and blowing snow could cause white out conditions at times.
As the snow level lowers by Wednesday night or Thursday, driving conditions across the Grapevine and Soledad Canyon pass could become problematic.

On top of the rain and snow, coastal areas can expect high surf through much of next week.

The combination of stormy conditions, winds and high surf could bring coastal flooding, along with erosion, to beaches and damage to coastal structures such as piers. Flooding of low lying beach parking lots, harbor walkways and campgrounds will be possible especially during the middle of next week when a very large swell arrives.

Residents of Southern California, especially those living in or below recent burn areas should prepare now for the impending rainfall next week.

Now is the time to take action. Finish up outdoor projects and consider preparing sand bags for possible flooding and debris flows. Many fire stations provide free sandbags. Click here for more information.

Residents with beachfront property are advised to monitor the latest forecasts, watches., warnings and advisories as the storms and swells move closer to the region. Travelers and motorists should monitor the latest forecasts and are advised to make contingency travel plans especially on Tuesday and Wednesday when the heaviest rain and snow arrive. Local commutes could be impacted due to possible roadway flooding and ponding on pavement surfaces.