The forecast remains on track as an early-season low-pressure system continues dropping south off the California coast this afternoon and is expected to swing inland across the region tonight and Thursday. This will produce widespread rainfall and gusty winds with isolated thunderstorms. A decent southerly flow out ahead of of the low will also tap into a more tropical airmass, resulting in high snow levels throughout this storm, generally above 8,000 feet. Clouds and winds are beginning to roll into the valley this afternoon as our storm system is now reaching the coast with temperatures today topping out near 60 degrees. Expect showers to develop this evening with west winds gusting 15-25 mph at times.

As this low rolls inland, rain showers will become likely tonight into Thursday with gusty southwest winds to 30 mph at times. With the cooler, more unstable airmass arriving, we could also see a few thunderstorms fire up around the area. Highs will drop into the mid-to-upper 40s on Thursday with a windy, cold, and wet day in store for most areas. Showers should taper off Thursday night with clearing skies Friday as low pressure exits the region. Total rainfall amounts of around a half inch can be expected in all areas, with locally 1-2 inches possible on the lower coastal slopes, and lesser amounts in the deserts. A weak offshore flow will develop over the weekend behind the departing low for cool and breezy conditions, warming slightly early next week. At this time, conditions look dry for next week, but another storm system is possible around the end of the month.

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