California and Eastern Pacific Begin Meteorological Winter on a Wet Note (Credit: Meteorologist Jessica Olsen)

Image Courtesy: Pivotal Weather

DISCUSSION: Rain will remain in the forecast for the next 24 hours as increased humidity lingers in the area coupled with a warm front, bringing warmer morning temperatures in the overnight. Previous day temperatures had readings in the mid-upper 30's with this morning temperatures starting off in the upper 40's to low 50's. Despite wind in the area, overall a mild morning with much of Central/Southern California seeing overcast skies.

Coastal California may not have a white Christmas this year, though in higher elevations across the state, snow is not out of the question. However, this late fall, early meteorological winter, Californians are elated to see the consistency in unsettled weather, bringing much needed precipitation to the 5 year drought-ridden state.

Forecast models indicated 1-3" of rainfall while most of the area will see 1/4-1", which will be more than welcome in many areas. Increased rainfall within the past 24-48 hours posed some difficulty for local Big Sur area of Highway 1, seeing road closures due to debris. This will likely persist as onshore flow is expected to bring increased moisture tonight and into tomorrow.

~Meteorologist Jessica Olsen