Wet Week Ahead for Southern California, Heaviest Rain on Monday

4-8 inches of rain expected, raising risks of flash flooding, rockslides, and hazardous driving conditions

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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A wet and potentially hazardous week is ahead for much of Southern California, with the heaviest rain and storm impacts expected on Monday. Widespread rain will develop late Sunday before intensifying on Monday, when the highest rainfall rates and a 20-40% chance of thunderstorms are forecast. Rain totals through the week could reach 2 to 4 inches across coastal and valley areas, with higher elevations in the mountains and foothills seeing 4 to 8 inches of rain by Friday.

Why it matters

The heavy rain and storm conditions pose significant risks to the region, including localized flash flooding, rockslides, and mudslides, especially in burn scar areas and mountain communities. The most impactful conditions are expected during Monday's morning and evening commutes, when downpours could reduce visibility and create ponding on major routes, potentially causing hazardous driving conditions.

The details

According to the National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard, the storm system is expected to bring widespread rain starting late Sunday, with the heaviest rainfall and a 20-40% chance of thunderstorms on Monday. Forecasters warn that the heavy rain could lead to localized flash flooding, rockslides, and mudslides, especially in burn scar areas and mountain communities.

  • The storm system is expected to develop late Sunday night.
  • The heaviest rain and storm impacts are forecast for Monday.
  • Rain totals through the week could reach 2 to 4 inches across coastal and valley areas.
  • Higher elevations in the mountains and foothills may see 4 to 8 inches of rain by Friday.
  • The storm system is expected to taper midweek, though additional showers remain possible through Thursday.

The players

National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard

The regional office of the National Weather Service that provides weather forecasts and warnings for the Los Angeles and Oxnard areas.

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What’s next

Residents are urged to avoid flooded roads, allow extra travel time, and remain alert for rapidly changing weather. Drivers encountering heavy rain are advised to slow down and, if necessary, pull over safely until conditions improve.

The takeaway

The heavy rain and storm conditions expected this week in Southern California pose significant risks to the region, including the potential for localized flash flooding, rockslides, and hazardous driving conditions. Residents and commuters should closely monitor the weather and take appropriate precautions to stay safe.