Two-wave storm threatens SoCal and Southwest this week

Southern California and parts of the Southwest are facing a two-wave weather threat this week as an early-season Pacific storm brings rain and gusty winds Monday and Tuesday, followed by increased moisture from Hurricane Priscilla later in the week that could produce scattered thunderstorms and isolated heavy downpours from Thursday through Saturday.

The first system is forecast to move into the region late Monday from the northwest, bringing measurable rain, stronger winds and the potential for localized flooding as it spreads from Ventura County through the Southland into Tuesday, meteorologists said. Forecasters warned the Monday night and Tuesday morning commutes could be affected and urged motorists to allow extra time on slick roads. NBC4 meteorologist Kelley Moody advised caution for Tuesday morning travel and said winds will pick up ahead of the rain.

Across Northern California, the same early-week storm is expected to reach the Bay Area Monday and persist into Tuesday afternoon. Meteorologists said the Bay Area could see 0.25 to 3 inches of rain, with the heaviest totals in elevated and Central Coast locations. Thunderstorms, lightning, small hail and waterspouts are...