Expect increasing high clouds today with above-normal temperatures one last day as highs reach the mid-70s. The increasing onshore flow will generate gusty west winds 15-25 mph at times. Low pressure approaching from the northwest on Saturday, tapping into moisture from weakening Tropical Storm Rachel will bring increasing clouds and winds throughout the day. I think we'll get through most of the day dry as highs cool to the mid-60s, closer to average; a few showers or sprinkles are possible by afternoon. Southwest winds will also gust 15-30 mph later in the day. Remnant moisture from Tropical Storm Rachel will move into the area Saturday night through Sunday, with rain showers likely; the rain could be heavy at times with snow levels above 9,000 feet. Showers may taper off a bit Sunday night, then increase again on Monday as a colder low offshore moves inland across the area, with scattered showers and thunderstorms possible.

Cooler and windy through early next week as highs drop into the upper 40s and 50s, a 30-degree drop in temperatures from today along with west-northwest winds 15-35 mph continuing; gusts near 50 mph will be possible on Sunday. Total rainfall now through Tuesday of around half to one inch is still expected across most of Southern California, from the coast to the deserts, with locally one to two inches in the mountains; isolated higher amounts of 2-3" are possible in a few locations, especially southern mountains and upslope areas. The snow level may also dip to around 7,000 feet by Monday night, where a dusting of snow is possible up at resort level. We'll stay somewhat cool and unsettled on Tuesday before low pressure exits the region by Wednesday, leading to fair and warmer weather later in the week. Longer range looks relatively dry across SoCal until closer to the end of the month, but this could bring a great start to our rainy season! Be prepared for the unsettled weather this weekend and start carrying those tire chains just in case!

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