Light rain began falling in parts of Southern California early Tuesday as the first of two storms made its way into the region.

“Rain intensities are light, but enough to cause sudden slowdowns on the roads,” NWS Los Angeles said of Tuesday morning’s light rain. “Please allow extra time and patience for this morning’s commute.”

The light rain is a precursor for a second storm, which is projected to bring heavier rain overnight Wednesday into the predawn hours Thursday as a cold front passes over the region, the National Weather Service has said.

During the second storm, forecasters are predicting a 3-to-6 hour period of moderate to heavy rain and about a half-inch to 1 inch per hour.

Areas along the coast and in the valleys could see 1 to 2 inches of rain, while the mountains and foothills could see 2 to 4 inches, the NWS said.

Shallow debris flows and minor flooding was likely in burn scar areas, with a flood watch for most of Los Angeles County and a 30%-to-50% chance of significant flooding and debris flows within that area, the NWS said.

The storm could bring upwards of 1-to-2 feet of snow at or above 6,000 feet in the mountains, with lighter accumulations down to 3,000 feet, which could impact mountain passes like the Grapevine, forecasters said.

Related Articles