Cooler and Calmer.

Winds are down from last night.  Temps are also down.  Mid 40s out there at 6:30 this evening.  The heaviest rain is behind us, but we did see a pretty strong squall this afternoon around 4PM.  Rains were heavy at times, but accumulation was less than the original forecast.  NOAA pulled way back on their forecast Wednesday afternoon, and form there it looked pretty accurate.  Almost a half inch fell today, and a little more than a half inch fell yesterday.  All in, we are looking at about 2.5 inches storm total so far.  We could see some more showers, and even a short squall.  A half inch by Monday, at most, and most of that tonight and Saturday night.  And then we get two days of mostly sunshine. Good news.  We need that sun now.  Water, not so much.

A third of the state is completely out of drought, and another 50% just Abnormally Dry.  Less than 10% is designated as Moderate, and about 1% Severe.  The northern boarder and San Diego are basically it.  As of reports released yesterday.  With the rain today and this weekend, we should see continued improvements.  Not to mention the systems expected for the middle of next week and maybe the following weekend. I promise, beyond that, we will see a high pressure.  I hope,  As much as I always say we need water, right now, we need to dry out.  Trees are falling across the highway, and crushing houses.  Mud slides are beginning to become a real concern, and that will last for weeks, even with no more rain.

Cold for the week ahead.  This morning was the warmest it will get.  Lows in the low 40s tonight, high on Saturday in the low 50s.  Lows dip into the upper, and then mid 30s.  Highs will climb to the mid 50s next week, and will especially feel warm on the sunny days.

Rain tonight, chance of showers Saturday.  Rain Saturday night, chance of showers Sunday.  Clearing Sunday night, sunny Monday and Tuesday.  Clouds on Wednesday, with a chance for more showers into Thursday.  More on that as we get closer.  Just want to note we are not out of the weeds yet.

Be careful out there folks as you drive over the mountain.  Or on the back roads. Or if you venture near the ocean.  A large long period swell arrive today.  Reading 18.5 feet at 17 seconds as of now. While a lot of that height is likely wind swell stacked on top, that is pretty hefty.  Breakers will sweep well up the rocks and cliffs at the coast.  Use plenty of caution.  And you are thinking of charging this weekend, please be careful.  It is going to take several days for the ocean to settle and calming make for good riding conditions.  If you can wait, Monday and Tuesday look much better, if a bit smaller.