When will it rain in LA? See the storm timeline – NBC Los Angeles

Several days of rain and powerful wind gusts are in the forecast this week when a winter storm has already led to evacuation warnings in parts of Los Angeles County settles into Southern California for the holiday.

The Christmas week storm is expected to deliver light rain Tuesday evening before reaching its peak on Wednesday. Another wave of rain is in the Christmas Day outlook, increasing the risk of debris flows in recent wildfire burn zones.

In additional to days of rain expected to continue into the weekend, strong winds, including gusts up to 80 mph in the mountains, will raise the threat of toppled trees and other damage.

Here’s the holiday storm timeline

Tuesday: Mostly dry with clouds, then evening showers

Clouds blanketed Southern California early Tuesday, but most of the day will be dry until scattered showers develop around 7 or 8 p.m. High wind warnings and wind advisories go into effect at midday and continue through Thursday afternoon.

Sustained winds of 30 to 50 mph are possible with potentially damaging gusts of 70 to 80 mph in the mountains and foothills. Strong winds coupled with soaked soil increase the risk for downed trees.

Homes in Pacific Palisades at risk of being affected by potential mudslides have been given evacuation warnings as storm makes its way to the region. Tracey Leong reports for the NBC4 News at 11 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025.

Wednesday: Heavy overnight rain and the peak of the storm

The multi-day storm will reach its height on Wednesday when heavy overnight rain moves from west to east. Thunderstorms are possible with rainfall rates of 1 inch per hour at times.

Here’s when to expect the rain and where.

• Ventura County: Midnight to 7 a.m.
• Los Angeles County: Midnight to 4 p.m.
• Orange County and Inland Empire: 3 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Those who live in burn scar areas in Altadena are under evacuation warnings. Lolita Lopez reports for the NBC4 News at 5 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 22, 2025.

Thursday: Soggy Christmas Day

Christmas Day starts with scattered showers, but there will be breaks in the rain. Around midday, a line of heavy rain will move from west to east before widespread rain as a flood watch continues into the evening.

The persistent rainfall forecast led to evacuation warnings that go into effect Tuesday for recent burn scar areas, including residences near the January Eaton and Palisades fires in Altadena and the Palisades. The warnings urge residents to prepare for possible evacuation orders due to the threat of debris flows.