Los Angeles Weather: 4th Storm Brings Flood Warnings

Los Angeles Weather: 4th Storm Brings Flood Warnings

Los Angeles is grappling with the fourth major storm in a week, bringing intense rain, flash flooding risks, and even a rare tornado warning to Southern California. As the region continues to battle saturated grounds and rising water levels, residents and officials are closely monitoring the evolving weather situation.

Current Storm Impact

The latest storm struck on Thursday, November 21, 2025, with heavy downpours causing significant flooding across Los Angeles and Orange counties. In Westminster, an astonishing 1.84 inches of rain fell in just one hour between 9:30 and 10:30 PM, according to the National Weather Service. Nearby Huntington Beach saw a three-mile stretch of Pacific Coast Highway closed due to roadway flooding, while residential neighborhoods reported inches of rain accumulating on streets.

Further north, the Inland Empire faced treacherous conditions. In Rancho Cucamonga, drivers struggled with slick roads on the 10 Freeway, and residents near fire-scarred areas like Mount Baldy expressed concerns about mudslides and debris flow. The saturated ground, unable to absorb additional rainfall, has heightened fears of flooding in vulnerable regions.

Unusual Weather Phenomena

Storms this week have brought unusual weather to Southern California. In Dana Point Harbor, a possible tornado or waterspout was reported around 10:15 PM Thursday. The powerful wind lifted a 12-foot chain-link fence and threw it 70 feet across a parking lot. Meanwhile, Mammoth Mountain celebrated its opening day with 18–32 inches of new snow, while Big Bear Lake saw over a dozen vehicles trapped in snow along Highway 18.

"Rain rates of half an inch or more per hour are enough to generate landslides," warned the National Weather Service. "Areas that see these rates could have significant hydrologic impacts."

Extended Forecast and Safety Alerts

A flood watch remains in effect for most of Los Angeles County, Orange County, and parts of the Inland Empire through Friday morning. Forecasters warn that rainfall rates nearing 1 inch per hour could trigger flash flooding or debris flows, especially in burn scars from recent wildfires. The heaviest rain is expected to taper off by Friday morning, though scattered showers will persist throughout the day.

Friday also brings a "semi-wet Santa Ana" event, where typically dry Santa Ana winds will carry moisture, potentially bringing gusty conditions. By Saturday, the storms are expected to move out, leaving a cool, dry weekend ahead. However, another storm system could return between November 29 and December 2.

Safety Tips for Residents

As the weather continues to threaten Southern California, residents are advised:

• Avoid driving through flooded roads—turn around, don't drown.
• Monitor flash flood warnings in real-time via local news outlets.
Prepare emergency kits with essentials, medications, and pet supplies.
• Clear storm drains and gutters to prevent water backup.
• Stay updated on road closures, especially in mountainous areas.

For the latest updates, track live radar with local news stations like ABC7's Megadoppler 7000 or consult the National Weather Service.

Looking Ahead

While the immediate threat will diminish by Saturday, the lingering effects of this week's storms—saturated soil, damaged infrastructure, and displaced residents—will require ongoing attention. Southern Californians are urged to remain vigilant as the region braces for potential additional weather challenges in the coming days.