SoCal Storm Threatens Rain on Rose Parade
Southern California is facing significant rainfall as the new year approaches, particularly affecting the 2026 Rose Parade. Forecasters have indicated a nearly 100% chance of rain on the parade route, coinciding with overnight campouts by spectators along Colorado Boulevard. This marks the first rainy New Year’s parade since 2006.
Weather Forecast and Preparations for the Rose Parade
Meteorologist Bryan Lewis from the National Weather Service in Oxnard anticipates that the bulk of the rain will begin late Wednesday night and continue into the early hours of Thursday. There is a 20% to 30% chance of thunderstorms, along with potential lightning. This could pose risks due to the vulnerability of spectators and parade floats in large open areas.
Pasadena spokesperson Lisa Derderian confirmed that parade organizers are taking precautions against adverse weather. A meteorologist will be on-site, and plans are in place for scenarios ranging from light rain to severe weather. “We train throughout the year for worst-case scenarios,” Derderian stated.
Safety Measures for Spectators
- Float riders will be equipped with ponchos.
- Additional tow trucks will be available along the parade route.
- Umbrellas are prohibited to ensure clear visibility for all attendees.
Instead of umbrellas, spectators are encouraged to wear rain jackets or ponchos. Forecasters project heavy downpours and winds between 10 to 25 mph, with intensified gusts possible during thunderstorms. Urban flooding is a concern across Pasadena and Los Angeles.
Emergency Response and Precautions
The city’s Emergency Operations Center activated on Wednesday to coordinate storm preparedness. Police are proactively contacting residents in high-risk areas, while the Los Angeles Fire Department is bolstering its staffing for potential swift-water rescues and debris flows.
Mayor Karen Bass urged residents to remain vigilant, particularly when traveling during the New Year’s holiday. She also recommended signing up for emergency alerts through NotifyLA.org.
State-Wide Preparations
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that state emergency crews are strategically positioned in flood-prone areas. These preparations are especially relevant given the recent holiday storms that caused fatalities and significant property damage.
The current storm system, although less intense than its predecessor, poses risks to already saturated soils, increasing the likelihood of rock and mudslides. Rainfall is expected to range from 0.75 to 2 inches in coastal and valley areas, with up to 5 inches in foothill and mountainous regions by Friday.
Evacuation Warnings and Road Closures
Evacuation warnings have been issued for several fire-affected areas, including Pacific Palisades and Altadena. Road closures, specifically on Topanga Canyon Boulevard, are set to begin at 5 p.m. on Wednesday as a precautionary measure.
Emergency resources are ready across the state, including swift-water rescue teams and equipment to manage potential flooding and debris incidents. “By pre-positioning emergency crews, we enhance our response capability for deteriorating conditions,” Newsom remarked.
As the region braces for the incoming storm, officials emphasize the importance of community preparedness and adherence to safety guidelines throughout the New Year celebrations.
