A closed low-pressure system digging south off the California coast will swing inland to our south later today and into the early part of the weekend, bringing rain with a few isolated thunderstorms possible, especially near the coast. Expect mostly cloudy skies out there today with showers developing, cooler and windy with a high near 50. South to southwest winds increasing to 15-30 mph with gusts near 40 mph possible through tonight. As this low rolls inland over extreme Southern California and Northern Baja tonight, scattered showers will continue, lingering into Saturday morning, with the snow level above 8,000 feet. Rainfall amounts should remain under about a quarter of an inch for most areas, with up to a half inch possible further west and south.

Sunday will remain partly cloudy, cool, and breezy before another Pacific storm takes aim on the area Monday. This system will move in from the north, bringing colder air and an increased potential for natural snowfall, with the snow level lowering to around 5,500 feet Monday night and Tuesday where a few inches of snow are possible. Another cold storm is possible later in the week with even lower snow levels, but at this time, amounts look relatively light. Computer forecast models still differ in the details, timing and intensity. Regardless, be prepared for winter weather conditions next week and always carry chains!

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