Weekend Storm to Bring Rain, Possible Thunderstorms to SoCal

Moderate rainfall and a chance of thunderstorms expected Saturday night into Sunday morning.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:07am

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, depicting a stormy, rain-swept scene over a mountainous coastal region. The composition uses deep perspective and dramatic lighting to convey the overwhelming scale and sublime power of the natural world, with any physical structures or objects barely visible and dwarfed by the weather conditions.A powerful storm system sweeps through the Southland, showcasing the region's dramatic natural beauty and the humbling power of nature.Los Angeles Today

A storm system is expected to move through the Southland region this weekend, bringing rain, possible thunderstorms, and cooler temperatures. Rainfall totals are forecast to range from a half-inch to 1.5 inches, with higher amounts in the foothills and mountains. Thunderstorms could produce heavy rain, gusty winds, small hail, and even waterspouts or weak tornadoes. Snow levels are expected to drop to around 5,000 feet by Sunday afternoon.

Why it matters

This storm system will disrupt typical weekend plans and activities in the Los Angeles area, with the potential for minor flooding and hazardous driving conditions. It also marks a shift in the weather pattern, bringing a cooler and wetter period after an extended dry spell.

The details

The main front is expected to move through Los Angeles County between early morning and mid-morning on Sunday. Rainfall rates could reach a quarter- to half-inch per hour. While major flooding and debris flows are unlikely, forecasters say 'minor nuisance flooding is likely.' Any thunderstorms that develop could produce brief heavy rain, gusty outflow winds, small hail, and potentially waterspouts or weak, short-lived tornadoes.

  • The storm system is expected to move through the region on Saturday night into Sunday morning.
  • A winter weather advisory has been issued from 3 a.m. Sunday through 11 a.m. Monday for the I-5 Corridor, Acton, the San Gabriel Mountains, and the Highway 14 Corridor.
  • Strong winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph are expected in the Antelope Valley on Sunday.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related advisories and warnings.

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What they’re saying

“Scattered shower activity is possible Sunday afternoon into Monday morning. Dry and warmer weather is expected the rest of next week.”

— National Weather Service

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the storm system and provide updates on any changes to the forecast or potential impacts.

The takeaway

This weekend's storm system is a reminder that even moderate rainfall can disrupt normal activities and create hazardous conditions in the Los Angeles area. Residents should stay informed about the latest weather updates and take appropriate precautions if traveling or planning outdoor activities.