The strongest winds are expected in the mountains of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, with gusts of up to 65 mph, the NWS said. A high-wind warning was issued starting at 4 p.m. Tuesday until 7 a.m. Wednesday for the Los Angeles County mountains, excluding the Santa Monica range. A wind advisory was issued for Ventura County coast valleys from 6 p.m. Tuesday to 2 p.m. Wednesday.
Sunny skies and breezy conditions are expected Wednesday with temps around 60 in metro L.A. and O.C., and in the valleys and I.E. The mountains will be windy and cold as temps settle in the mid 30s. The high desert will get strong gusts and temps in the high 40s.
It was a slick commute for drivers on the 5 Freeway on Tuesday morning as off-and-on showers lingered through Southern California. As temperatures plummet late in the afternoon, the biting rain in some areas will likely turn into snow and dump a few inches on the Grapevine. Officials are advising motorists to travel with caution as the icy roads could bring dicey driving conditions.
While snow enthusiasts might welcome the snowfall with open arms, some plan on avoiding it altogether.
"If you like snow, it's cool," said Fred Victor of Castaic. "I'll be in the house with the heater on."
Most Southern California motorists woke up to wet roads as many areas like Oxnard and downtown Los Angeles got pounded with significant rain overnight.
The wet weather caught many drivers off guard. An accident involving a semi-truck and a pickup was reported near the San Gabriel Boulevard exit on the 210 Freeway in Pasadena overnight. Authorities believe the rain-slick roads were the likely cause for the crash, as well as for a rollover near the 405 and 101 freeways near Sherman Oaks.
Despite the few rain-related collisions, drivers have overall decided to take it slow.
"I actually work in the Bakersfield area. I came back home last night and it was just a mess so I'm kind of glad I have the day off," said Adil Salim of Castaic.
As the rain tapers off, the road may seem drier, but frigid temperatures and gusty winds will force many Southern Californians to bundle up.
