Cold storm approaching Southland

LOS ANGELES (CNS) — Another cold storm is expected to drop temperatures and possibly some rain in the Southland today, with several inches of snow anticipated in higher mountain elevations.

The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory that will be in effect from 3 a.m. today through 10 a.m. Thursday for the San Gabriel Mountains and the Golden State and Antelope Valley freeway corridors.

Forecasters said “moderate” snow is anticipated in the advisory area, with higher mountain elevations possibly receiving as much as 8 inches.

“There is a 30% chance of 1- to 2-inch snow accumulations down to 4,000 feet, including I-5 at Tejon Pass,” according to the weather service. “Snow levels will generally range between 4,500 and 5,000 feet early Wednesday then could fall as low as 4,000 feet late (today) into (tonight), which could impact I-5 at Tejon Pass.”

Such snowfall would impact motorists on Interstate 5 in the northern reaches of Los Angeles County. Forecasters warned of potential traffic delays or road closures.

The affected area will also be hit with strong winds this afternoon into tonight, with gusts in the 35 to 50 mph range, forecasters said.

“The gusty winds could bring reduced visibilities in blowing snow, especially (this) afternoon into (tonight),” according to the weather service. “A second and potentially colder storm system could impact the local mountains this weekend, potentially bringing snow levels as low as 3,000 feet.”

For lower elevations, rain could begin falling in parts of Los Angeles County early this morning, with the peak of the storm unfortunately expected to arrive “around rush hour,” according to the weather service.