Another Southern California Storm Brewing

Wet weather to continue through Thursday with rain, snow, and potential travel hazards

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Southern California is bracing for another round of stormy weather, with a new system expected to move through the region starting Tuesday night and continuing through Thursday. The storm will bring rain, snow, and potential travel hazards to the area, including the possibility of flash flooding and hazardous mountain driving conditions.

Why it matters

This latest storm system comes on the heels of heavy rain earlier this week, which caused flooding in some areas. The back-to-back storms could have significant impacts on transportation, outdoor activities, and the local economy, especially in mountain communities that rely on winter tourism.

The details

The storm is expected to bring between 0.25 and 1 inch of rain to the coasts and valleys, and up to 2 inches of rain in the mountains. Snow levels are forecast to drop to 3,500-4,000 feet, with 1-4 inches of snow expected from 3,500 to 4,500 feet, 6-12 inches from 5,000 to 6,000 feet, and 12-18 inches above 6,000 feet. Some elevations above 6,000 feet may even see 1-2 feet of snow. A Flood Watch is in effect through late Tuesday for Ventura and Los Angeles counties, as well as the Malibu coast, where heavy showers and thunderstorms could cause flash flooding.

  • Tuesday, Feb. 17: On-and-off showers expected throughout the day, with the chance of light rain increasing around sunset. The brunt of the storm is expected to move in overnight and into Wednesday morning.
  • Wednesday, Feb. 18: The storm should wrap up by the morning commute, but flooding and slippery roads are still possible. Heavy snow will continue in the mountains through Thursday.
  • Thursday, Feb. 19: Another round of early morning rain is expected, plus colder temps with a high of 57 degrees and more afternoon showers. More mountain snow is also expected.
  • Friday, Feb. 20: The storm should clear by Friday, leading to partly cloudy conditions and warmer temps.
  • Saturday, Feb. 21-Sunday, Feb. 22: The region should remain dry through the weekend warm-up.

The players

Belen De Leon

A meteorologist for NBC Los Angeles who provided the weather forecast and details for this storm system.

Melissa Magee

An NBCLA meteorologist who said the region should remain dry through the weekend warm-up.

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What they’re saying

“Another storm system is expected to move through our region tonight, bringing even lower snow levels to Southern California's mountains, including Big Bear Valley.”

— Belen De Leon, Meteorologist (nbclosangeles.com)

What’s next

De Leon said another storm may be on the way next week, so residents should continue to monitor the forecast for any additional weather systems that could impact the region.

The takeaway

This latest storm system highlights the ongoing winter weather challenges facing Southern California, with back-to-back storms bringing the potential for flooding, hazardous driving conditions, and impacts on local businesses and tourism. Residents should stay prepared and monitor forecasts closely in the coming days and weeks.