New Year's Rain On The Way In Laguna Beach: 3-Day Forecast

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Rain is returning to Laguna Beach, just in time for New Year's Eve.

In Orange County, rainy conditions are expected to start Tuesday night and continue into Wednesday.

"A return to wet weather is expected Wednesday as moisture from off the coast of Mexico gets pulled up into southern California," said the NWS. "Onset time is still in question, but no later than Wednesday evening. Some light rain is possible as early as Wednesday morning, especially far western areas as the hi res models show the initial trajectory farther to the west over the Channel Islands and Central Coast, but then shifting east during the afternoon and evening."

Forecasters said "periods of light to moderate rain" are anticipated through Saturday, with the heaviest rain expected Wednesday night into New Year's Day on Thursday.

Forecasters said roughly 1 to 3 inches of rain is possible by week's end in coastal and valley areas, with 2 to 5 inches possible in the mountains.

"Precipitable waters rise quickly Wednesday night, rising to between 1.25 and 1.5 inches through New Years Day," according to the NWS. "This will be the period of heaviest rainfall with this storm, but likely still at least 50% lighter than the last event."

Given last week's storms that saturated the ground in many areas, authorities again warned of possible mud and debris flows from the upcoming rain.

The forecast prompted the cancelation of Wednesday's New Year's Eve celebration in the Orange County city of Fullerton.

The First Night celebration won't take place because of high winds and rain forecast for Wednesday, according to city officials who say the "conditions raise public safety and operational concerns for attractions, entertainment, and fireworks."

"We know this is disappointing and appreciate the community's understanding as we prioritize safety, according to a statement released by the city. "We look forward to celebrating with you at future city events under safer conditions."

City News Service contributed to this report.