Weather Alert

Despite the recent sunshine and relatively balmy weather, winter is predicted to return this week.

Residents should get ready for another bout of rain that will persist through the weekend, with another storm potentially brewing next week.

Southern California is about to get wind-whipped and soaked with two systems on the horizon, though major flooding like that seen during January’s bomb cyclone storms isn’t expected, according to the National Weather Service.

Much of the nation is expecting wintry weather this week.

This region will see high intensity, southwest winds that peaked Wednesday. Winds were expected to reach 30 mph at the coast, with gusts up to 40 mph or 50 mph and even stronger in the mountain regions.

Riverside County areas could see wind speeds between 75 mph and 85 mph.

In addition to high winds across Southern California, weather forecasters predict a strong low-pressure system that was expected to race down the West Coast this week.

Temperatures will be 10-20 degrees colder than normal. Snow will reach low levels, even to about 1,000 feet to 1,500 feet above sea level with the first system. For reference, the Grapevine pass is at 4,500 feet, where forecasters are expecting a foot or two of snow.

Other areas, including the Cajon Pass, San Gorgonio Pass and eastern Inland Empire could also see snowfall, so drivers should use caution.

The coldest day is expected to be Thursday, where no area in the region will get above 60 degrees.

Areas of the Inland Empire will see the upper 40s and low 50s. Coastal areas can expect highs in the low- to mid-50s. Along with the wild wind, the ocean will see strong swells that will bring big waves.

A 5.5 foot high tide expected by midweek threatened to bring flooding for some low-lying areas. People are warned to stay off rock jetties or tide pools.

As the region re-enters the stormy pattern it saw in January, there could be another system coming next week.

The rain isn’t expected to eradicate the region’s drought deficit, but but everything helps.

For those looking to head to the mountains with the new shot of snow, check conditions and plan ahead.

Strong winds and heavy snowfall could impact ski trips. Mountain High expected 6 inches of snow today, Feb. 23, and on Friday, there could be up to 2 feet of new snow fall.

Weather typically warms up in March and April but if the cold winter systems continue, there’s potential for a longerthan- normal season at local resorts, which typically close their slopes mid-April.

The winter weather pattern is expected to persist for a couple weeks.