LOS ANGELES (CNS) - Showers doused the Southland today and a winter storm warning was in effect in the San Gabriel Mountains in Ventura and Los Angeles counties, where the snow could fall as low as 2,000 feet, threatening hazardous travel conditions, including on Interstate 5 through The Grapevine and Highway 14 through Soledad Canyon, forecasters said.
“Showers will continue through this evening, with a chance for lingering showers over the northern slopes into early Wednesday,” said a National Weather Service statement, which added that a winter storm warning, which denotes dangerous travel condition, will be in effect until 4 a.m. Wednesday.
“Snow levels will lower to between 2500 and 3500 feet this morning, and eventually fall as low as 2000 feet tonight. This will lead to an increasing threat of accumulating snow on some of the lower mountain passes ... this morning through tonight. This would include the Interstate 5 corridor near The Grapevine, Highway 14 through Soledad Canyon, Highway 33 north of Ojai, Highway 154 through Santa Barbara county as well as highway 166 through the Cuyama Valley.
“South to southwest winds gusting between 35 and 45 mph will bring a threat of blowing and drifting snow, which will add to the travel difficulties.”
Between 8 and 14 inches of snow are expected to accumulate through early Wednesday above 7,000 feet, with 2-4 inches possible at 4,000 feet, including Interstate 5 near The Grapevine,” according to an NWS statement “Lighter snow accumulation will be possible as low as 2,500 feet,” along with south-to-southwest wind gusts of 35-45 mph.
The NWS urged anyone intending to travel in the mountains to plan for wintry travel conditions.
“Be prepared for significant reductions in visibility. The Interstate 5 Tejon Pass/Grapevine area will likely see delays due to periods of snow late tonight through Tuesday night. Highway 14 through Soledad Canyon could also be impacted with snow,” the statement said.
In the Antelope Valley, southwest winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 50 mph will continue through this evening, an NWS statement said.
“Gusty winds will make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. This includes Highways 14 and 138, especially near the foothills,” warned an NWS statement. “When driving, use extra caution. Be prepared for sudden gusty cross winds.”
Along the L.A County coast, a beach hazard statement, which is marginally less serious than a high surf advisory, will be in place through Wednesday afternoon. Dangerous rip currents are expected during that time as a result of elevated surf of 3-6 feet.
“There is an increased risk for ocean drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Large breaking waves can wash people off beaches and rocks and capsize small boats near shore,” warned an NWS statement. “A Beach Hazards Statement is issued when threats such as rip currents, longshore currents, sneaker waves and other hazards create life- threatening conditions in the surf zone. Swim near a lifeguard. If caught in a rip current, relax and float. Don't swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.”
The NWS said showers will continue through today, with some producing moderate to heavy downpours and low visibility. “Although the chance for thunderstorms is minimal, some of these showers will be capable of producing waterspouts and briefly strong winds over gale force,” said the NWS. “As a result, weather over the coastal waters can quickly deteriorate and become dangerous at any time through late Tuesday. Mariners should actively monitor the weather conditions when at sea, and consider staying in safe harbor through at least Tuesday.”
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