Thunderstorms 'Putting On A Show' In Riverside County Mountains

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — Monsoon thunderstorms put on a show over Riverside County mountains Monday, and more theatrics are forecast Tuesday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.

Another surge of monsoon moisture could bring significant rain to the mountains, similar to Monday's activity, meteorologists said.

The latest guidance "suggests rainfall rates of up to 1 inch per hour once again, with the highest rainfall rates over San Diego and Riverside Counties, where the moisture is best," the agency reported.

The heavy rainfall "will be enough for a marginal risk of flash flooding," according to the weather service.

A southerly wind flow will all but eliminate the chance of storms drifting into the eastern valleys, though a stray storm in the low deserts remains possible.

"As always with any thunderstorm, frequent lightning, gusty winds, and small hail will be possible," the agency warned. "Ensure you are prepared to take shelter in a sturdy and enclosed structure should you hear thunder."

Mountain rainfall rates should subside Wednesday, though a storm or two could still develop, with the Big Bear area in San Bernardino County the most likely location to receive heavier precipitation.

Across Riverside County, drier conditions are expected heading into the weekend. A cooling trend will bring below-normal temperatures to the region from Wednesday onward, along with breezy conditions in the mountains and deserts.