More storms a-brewin': L.A. could see its first rainy Halloween in over a decade

Los Angeles faces a high probability of rain during the upcoming Halloween holiday weekend, potentially marking the first wet October 31 in the city since 2014. Forecasters indicate a 90 percent chance of precipitation between Friday and November 2. This window includes Halloween night itself. Rich Thompson, a National Weather Service meteorologist based in Oxnard, described the outlook as a wet holiday period. While exact timing and specific locations remain uncertain, the agency predicts steady to heavy rainfall. The forecast discussion notes that Halloween activities are likely to suffer impacts. Officials assess the situation as a moderate-level storm regarding strength and consequences. There remains a low but present risk of a higher intensity event. Historical records show the last measurable rain on Halloween in Los Angeles occurred in 2014, when a quarter inch fell in downtown areas. Prior to that year, the previous instance was in 2003, which brought about half an inch of precipitation. Before 2003, the holiday had remained dry until 1987, when 1.39 inches of rain were recorded. Until Friday arrives, general weather conditions across Southern California should remain benign. However, a separate water hazard looms in the form of extreme tides. Coastal flood advisories are in effect for much of the California coastline starting Sunday. These warnings cite historically high tides causing minor to moderate flooding. The highest tides are projected for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday mornings. Water levels are expected to rise several feet above normal highs. This surge threatens areas already damaged by recent storms. Significant issues persist on the Long Beach Peninsula. Severe erosion has endangered a key coastal railway line. Structural damage affects dozens of homes and piers in Orange County. In Los Angeles, Orange, and San Diego counties, water levels could reach 7.5 to 8 feet above baseline. Baseline refers to the average low-water level observed between 1983 and 2011. Wait, the source says 1983 to 2001. Correcting that detail. The most significant effects are anticipated along the coastlines of Orange and San Diego counties. Localized flooding and further coastal erosion are expected. A coastal flood warning remains active from Sunday through Thursday. Authorities warn that numerous roads may close. Low-lying properties, including homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure, face inundation. Shoreline erosion is predicted during morning hours. Residents in warned areas are urged to monitor rising water levels and take steps to protect life and property.