Southern California is bracing for an early-season storm expected to sweep through the region late Monday into Tuesday, bringing heavy rain, gusty winds, and even the possibility of thunderstorms. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood watches for areas near recent wildfire burn scars, warning of potential mud and debris flows.

The storm system, moving in from the Pacific Northwest, is already stirring up strong winds in Santa Barbara Countyas it tracks southward. By Tuesday morning, the system is expected to shift east, leaving behind a widespread soaking across the region.

According to the NWS, this “cold and dynamic system” will deliver **unseasonably low snow levels—around 6,000 feet—**and rainfall totals ranging from 0.75 to 3.5 inches, depending on location. The system also carries a risk of strong thunderstorms, which could produce heavy downpours, powerful wind gusts, and even hail.

Rainfall Breakdown:

• Coastal and valley areas: 0.75 to 1.5 inches

• Foothills and mountains: 1.5 to 3.5 inches

Weather models are calling this a “significant October storm,” possibly the strongest of its kind in a decade. Meteorologist Colin McCarthy from U.S. Storm Watch noted that the system could effectively mark the end of California’s fire season for much of the state.

In Los Angeles, temperatures are expected to dip, with overnight lows around 51°F and daytime highs near 70°Fthrough midweek. After the storm passes, dry and warmer conditions are forecast to return from Thursday through Saturday, giving residents a break from the early fall deluge.

Stay alert for flood advisories and road closures, especially near mountain passes and burn scar regions.