Rain and wind storm coming Nov. 28

Posted: 7:34 am, November 28, 2012 by Publisher Scott Brennan

Nov. 28, 2012-A rather strong Pacific cold front is forecast to affect southwestern California today and tonight with a period of light to moderate rain and gusty winds. Residual low level moisture and onshore flow will keep plenty of showers over the area through Thursday.

The front will move into San Luis Obispo County this morning with rain and gusty south to southeast winds. The rain is expected to spread into Ventura County early this afternoon and into Los Angeles County by late afternoon or early evening. Light to moderate rain can be expected with this weather system… except for isolated heavy rain at times especially on south facing slopes over San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. The rain is expected to taper off to scattered showers late tonight with additional showers on Thursday

Preliminary rainfall estimates from today through Thursday are for 0.33 to 1.00 inches over San Luis Obispo County with locally higher amounts between 1.00 and 2.50 inches across south-facing slopes and northwestern San Luis Obispo County. Snow levels during the period will remain very high… generally above 7500 feet… with any snow accumulations confined to the highest peaks.

South to southeast winds are forecast to increase over San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties this morning… and will continue through this afternoon. Wind gusts between 35 and 40 mph are expected across the central coast… Santa Ynez Valley and the interior valleys of San Luis Obispo County. Across the mountains of San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties… wind gusts up to 50 mph are expected. As a result… a Wind Advisory has been issued for these areas through the day on Wednesday.

The rainfall expected from today into Thursday may produce ponding of water in low-lying and poorly drained areas. Also… motorists should be alert for slick roadways due to the combination of oil and rainfall. The gusty winds will compound travel problems over San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties as well… especially for high profile vehicles.

Live forecast at Weather Underground: http://www.wunderground.com/weather-forecast/US/CA/Paso_Robles.html

Source: National Weather Service