Southern California is bracing for a potent October storm capable of dropping up to 2 inches of rain. This weather system will trigger localized flooding and bring a sharp end to a recent stretch of hot weather and Santa Ana winds. According to the National Weather Service, the weather system is moving down the California coast from its previous position off the Oregon coast. The heaviest impacts are expected on Wednesday and Thursday, October 21-22, 2026.
Forecasters report that the system will turn inland somewhere between central and Southern California on Thursday. Baseline projections call for at least half an inch to an inch of rain across most of the region over the two-day period. Totals could reach 2 inches in certain areas. Officials have warned that stronger showers and thunderstorms could produce even higher localized amounts.
Flood Watches and High-Risk Areas
The National Weather Service issued flood watches ahead of the storm. These watches specifically target the Malibu coast as well as the eastern and western Santa Monica Mountains. Communities under the watch include Malibu, Malibu Bowl, Pacific Palisades, and Topanga.
Rainfall rates of one-half inch to 1 inch per hour are possible during peak periods, particularly on Wednesday night. These intense downpours create a significant risk of:
- Urban and poor-drainage flooding
- Extensive street flooding
- Potential overflow along creeks and rivers
- Debris flows near recent burn scars
In addition to Los Angeles and Orange counties, western sections of Riverside and San Bernardino counties face a 30% to 50% chance of rain beginning early Wednesday. Precipitation will spread further east and south into San Diego County.
Temperature Drops and Coastal Hazards
The incoming weather system brings a dramatic shift in conditions following days of unusually high temperatures driven by offshore winds. Daytime highs are expected to fall into the mid-60s to lower 70s across much of the region. This brings below-normal temperatures for the first time in several weeks.
Coastal and marine areas will also experience hazardous conditions. The National Weather Service warns that thunderstorms over the ocean could generate lightning, gusty and erratic winds, small hail, and choppy seas. A beach hazards statement remains in effect through late Thursday night. This cautions residents against dangerous rip currents, elevated surf, and minor tidal overflow in low-lying coastal spots.
In the higher elevations of the Sierra Nevada above 8,000 feet, areas could see between 3 and 6 inches of snow. However, forecasters noted that the storm is unlikely to produce snow below 8,000 feet in Southern California ranges.
Return to Dry Weather
The active weather system is expected to clear out quickly. Dry and warmer conditions will return by Friday, October 23, and persist through the weekend. Forecasters note that weak offshore winds could redevelop over the weekend, pushing temperatures back into the 80s in some inland areas. These winds will be significantly milder than the strong Santa Ana event from earlier in the month.
