New Year’s Day Rainfall Breaks Records in Southern California

Souther California’s New Year Storm: A Record-Breaking Downpour

As Southern California ushers in the New Year, a powerful storm has swept through the region, bringing an impressive amount of rainfall that has left many areas soggy. This spectacular weather event happened on January 1, 2026, and not only prompted a series of stormy forecasts but also shattered daily precipitation records across the Inland Empire and San Diego. Meteorologists, including AcuWeather’s senior forecaster Bob Larson, are monitoring the situation as more rain is expected in the coming days.

The recent weather patterns highlight a larger trend of above-average rainfall in Southern California, with communities across the Inland Empire, Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego bracing for intermittent rain. According to Larson, this is part of a series of storms advancing from the Pacific Ocean. The most considerable impact may be felt further up the coast, where Central and Northern California can expect steady or heavy rainfall. This deluge will translate to significant snowfall in the Sierra Nevada, raising concerns about travel and safety in those mountainous areas.

While the storms in Southern California may not produce an "extraordinary" amount of rain, meteorologists predict the arrival of two distinct storm systems. Rain activity is expected to fluctuate, with sporadic showers occurring on Friday. However, the precipitation will likely intensify on Saturday, particularly in the afternoon and evening. Furthermore, another wave of heavy showers is anticipated later on Sunday, promising to keep areas along the coast and inland regions wet through the weekend.

Notably, the New Year’s Day storm established several daily rainfall records that date back to the 1800s. For instance, Ontario International Airport recorded 0.86 inches of rain, surpassing the previous January 1 record of 0.77 inches. Similarly, John Wayne Airport noted 0.31 inches, breaking its prior record of 0.22 inches set in 2023. San Diego’s rainfall was even more remarkable, reaching 2.07 inches and breaking a long-standing record of 1.6 inches established in 1855. These significant measurements underscore the intensity of the storm and its effect on historical weather patterns.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has reported record rainfall across several airports: Bob Hope Airport in Burbank received 1.32 inches, far exceeding the previous record of 0.35 inches set in 2006. Long Beach Airport also experienced a notable 1.11 inches of rain, surpassing its record of 0.6 inches from 1982. These statistics not only illustrate the storm’s vigor but also emphasize the ongoing evolution of Southern Californian weather, conditioned by changing climate patterns.

As Southern California gears up for another stormy weekend, Larson advises local residents to prepare for potential travel delays, especially as rain continues. While he does not anticipate widespread catastrophic impacts, localized flooding may occur in various areas, including airport drainage zones. Such recommendations are crucial for residents considering travel plans, as even minor flooding can lead to increased hazard levels and slower transit times. Keeping abreast of weather updates will be essential for ensuring safety during this unpredictable season.

Ultimately, Southern California’s New Year storm is a reminder of the region’s dynamic climate and the importance of preparedness as severe weather patterns become more frequent. As residents navigate through this extended season of rain, awareness and readiness can significantly mitigate risks and enhance overall safety.