Heavy Rainstorm To Hit Hollywood Thursday Night

HOLLYWOOD, CA — A massive rainstorm that has been slowly moving south across California is expected to hit Hollywood tonight, creating potentially damaging mud and debris flow. National Weather Service forecasters said the "atmospheric river event" dropped almost 14 inches of rain in parts of San Luispo County over the past 36 hours, and should arrive in Los Angeles around 6 p.m.

"The front sags southward into Ventura and Los Angeles counties by Thursday afternoon into Friday," National Weather Service said. "Heaviest rainfall across the southern counties will occur Thursday night into Friday morning. Several inches of rain are expected with flooding concerns including recent burn areas. Several feet of high elevation mountain snow is also expected, along with moderate to strong winds."

Forecasters said Los Angeles County could see 1.5 to 3.5 inches of rain, with 2 to 5 inches possible in the foothills and mountains, although the largest rainfall totals are likely to occur in Ventura County.

In Hollywood, forecasters give 100% chance of showers Thursday night, while warning that a thunderstorm may also arrive between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. Wind gusts could reach 20 mph.

Rain showers are expected to continue Friday, with possible thunderstorms and a high of 60 degrees. Temperatures will dip to the low 40s overnight, while Saturday and Sunday will bring clear skies and temperatures in the mid 60s.

The NWS also issued a flash flood watch through Thursday night for the mountains, along with the Antelope, Santa Clarita and San Gabriel Valleys. Areas affected by the Lake, Bobcat and Ranch 2 fires will be particularly impacted, with a possible rain rate of 0.75 inches per hour.

"Residents in or below the recently burned areas are urged to take the steps necessary to protect their property," according to the NWS. "Persons in the watch area should remain alert and follow directions of emergency-preparedness officials. Avoid hiking and camping in canyons and near creeks."

Kevin McGowan, Los Angeles County's emergency management director, advised residents to have an evacuation plan ready to go in case the situation worsens. McGowan urged families to have a "go kit" prepared, and to park their cars facing the street so they can quickly leave if necessary.

"Our emergency response officials are world-class and will stand ready to defend lives, property and infrastructure if there are emergencies caused by this storm," he said. "But, we need collaboration from the public. It is critical for residents to be aware and prepared so that they can help keep themselves safe."

City News Service contributed to this report.