San Juan Capistrano Braces For Cold Weather Storm: Rain Totals

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA —Wind, rain and cold were the order of the day Thursday across Orange County. The National Weather Service reported the system moved into the Southland late Wednesday night, bringing rain to much of the Los Angeles and Orange County area and snow in the mountains, continuing in some locations into the afternoon and evening hours.

Already, the rain has played a factor in hampering drivers in their morning commute and has been a factor in at least one rollover collision in Orange County.

"Scattered showers will continue this morning, becoming more widespread into the afternoon," the National Weather Service San Diego reported Thursday morning.

Here is a look at how much rain has fallen so far in San Juan Capistrano and Orange County.

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In Orange County, the National Weather Service expects rain to begin in earnest midday Thursday, through 6 p.m. followed by cold and blustery winds.

"Rain is certain, and the potential for widespread moderate to heavy rain is likely along with associated flooding concerns possible for recent burn areas," according to the weather service.

Cold overnight temperatures were forecast throughout inland and coastal Orange County cities beginning Friday, December 10 through Monday, December 13.

Overnight temperatures in some areas will dip to the low 40s, they said.

County Opens Emergency Cold Weather Shelter

Orange County Health Care reports that colder than normal temperatures increase the risk of cold-related illnesses. Those who are more sensitive to extreme weather changes are at risk of hypothermia, they say.

To combat this for Orange County's unhoused and needy population, they have reopened their County Cold Weather Emergency Shelter.

The shelter will be activated for 24 hours on Thursday, December 9 from 7 a.m. to 7 a.m. on Friday, December 10. Depending on local weather conditions, extended hours may be added over the weekend as needed.

For more information please call (626) 442-4357.

Much Needed Rain, Snow In Mountains

Rainfall amounts are expected to be light, with forecasters predicting a quarter-inch or less in most areas, although up to a half-inch is possible in the eastern San Gabriel Mountains. In Orange County, residents can expect from .1 to .3 tenths of an inch of rain, according to the National Weather Service.

The most rain will occur in the Santa Ana mountains, though the roads will be slick.

Mountain areas above 6,000 feet could get 2 to 4 inches of snow, with some accumulation also possible on some slopes down to about 4,500 feet.

Forecasters said there's a possibility of some "dusting" on the Golden State (5) Freeway in the northern reaches of the county, along the Grapevine pass.

Windy Weather, Temperatures Drop Across County

When the rain lets up, the wind will follow.

"Following the cold front gusty westerly winds will develop Thursday afternoon, especially across the coastal areas with winds gusting up to 30 mph," according to the NWS.

When prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures occurs, it is important to make certain that you are protected from hypothermia, says Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, Orange County's Deputy County Health Officer.

"In addition, it is critical to check that seniors who live alone, your neighbors, pets and vulnerable populations are safe during this time," Chinsio-Kwong said.

Wind gusts will lower temperatures across Orange County, from Anaheim and Irvine south to San Clemente. The mountains will see the highest wind speeds, with 30 mile per hour gusts expected in San Clemente, and 23 mile per hour gusts expected in the Lake Forest, Irvine areas.

Conditions will remain dry over the weekend, but another storm system is anticipated beginning Monday and stretching into Wednesday.

How To Prepare For Cold Weather Or Power Outage

Recommended precautions to prepare your household for cold weather or power outage:

• Check on those who are at high risk to make sure they are staying warm – including seniors who live alone, as well as other vulnerable populations such as young children.
• Make sure to check on your pets.
• Wear layers of clothing.

For information on cold weather safety, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov.

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