This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
Storm heading for SoCal just in time for Christmas week
Rain is expected to return to Los Angeles next week.
(
Robert Gauthier
/
Getty Images
)
Topline:
An atmospheric river is expected to hit Southern California next week, bringing several inches of rain to the region — just in time for Christmas.
Why it matters: The moderate to strong storm could dump 2 to 4 inches of rain on L.A., Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, while the mountains and foothills could see double that amount.
Why now: The storm is expected to peak Tuesday evening into Christmas Eve, according to the National Weather Service, lingering into Thursday and Christmas Day.
The details: Bryan Lewis, a meteorologist with the NWS Oxnard office, said forecasters also are expecting gusty winds across the region, along with a chance of thunderstorms.
Confidence is high in a return of rain to Southwest California next week with rainfall likely peaking Christmas Eve thru Christmas Day (Dec 24-25). While the most likely outcomes are shown in the graphic, there is still some uncertainty with the details. Stay tuned. #LARain #CAwx pic.twitter.com/MudoabhNm4
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) December 17, 2025
What's next: There’s also a growing potential for moderate to heavy showers continuing into next weekend, although Lewis said the details and timing could change as the storm approaches.
Sponsored message
Go deeper: Why your skis and snowboard might not get much of a workout this winter
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
