A huge storm plowing into south-central California today will bring heavyrain and heavy mountain snow with it. Behind the storm's cold front tonight,gusty winds will blast through Southern California into Arizona.The monster storm is unleashing heavy rain over Southern California that couldlead to flash flooding and mudslides, especially across recent burn areas. Forinstance, the San Gabriel Mountains will be at risk for debris flows where theStation Fire scarred the area. Heavy rain will make it into the deserts ofArizona, also creating a flood threat.
The Sierra and the mountains of Southern California will have heavy snow thatcould snarl traffic. The highest peaks in the Sierra will get more than a footof snow and perhaps up to 2 feet. High winds will add to the mess by creatingblowing snow. People who travel the mountainous stretches of Interstate 80 willencounter treacherous driving conditions.
There will be dangerous travel over Tejon Pass along I-5 and Cajon Pass alongI-15 through Southern California as well with snow falling heavily at times.
The visibility will be dangerously reduced as roads become extremelyslick.
Heavy snow and blowing snow will also be lashing the mountains across the FourCorners, but conditions will get even worse in this region as the stormapproaches tonight into Tuesday.
Story by AccuWeather.com Meteorologist Meghan Evans.
