By SoCal News Crew

Los Angeles is bracing for another round of rain next week, offering some relief to the region’s fire-scorched landscape. However, meteorologists caution that the upcoming showers won’t be enough to officially mark the end of what is shaping up to be the county’s most destructive fire season in modern history.

According to the National Weather Service, the next rain system will bring light to moderate precipitation to Los Angeles and Ventura counties from Tuesday through Thursday. Forecasts predict between a quarter-inch and an inch of rain in lower elevations, while mountainous areas could see up to 2 inches, said meteorologist Lisa Phillips.

This follows last weekend’s storm, which delivered between half an inch and an inch of rain across the region. However, Phillips explains that significantly more rainfall is needed to fully extinguish fire season.

“To officially end fire season, we typically need around 2 inches in lower elevations and 4 inches in the mountains,” Phillips said. “Last weekend’s rain wasn’t enough, and unfortunately, this upcoming system doesn’t look strong enough either.”

Will This Rain Reduce Fire Risk?

While the rain will help moisten dry vegetation, reducing immediate fire danger, Phillips warns that conditions could quickly shift if offshore winds return and the rainfall remains sporadic.

A third rain event might be needed to push rainfall totals into the range necessary to close out fire season. However, meteorologists remain uncertain if such a system is on the horizon.

Mudslide and Flooding Concerns

Though much-needed, the rain also brings risks, particularly in areas burned by recent wildfires, including the Eaton and Palisades fire zones.

Burn scars are especially vulnerable to debris flows because fire damage makes the soil more water-resistant and strips away vegetation that would normally help stabilize hillsides. If rainfall exceeds half an inch per hour, it could trigger mudslides and flooding.

Last weekend’s storm led to minor slides in the Palisades burn area, temporarily closing Topanga Canyon Boulevard. However, next week’s rain is expected to be less intense, reducing the likelihood of significant debris flows.

“The previous system was colder, which produced thunderstorms and heavy downpours that increased the risk of debris flows,” Phillips explained. “This next system is warmer and less likely to create the same hazards.”

More Rain for Northern California

While Los Angeles will stay dry over the weekend, wet weather is expected elsewhere in the state.

An atmospheric river will bring 1 to 3 inches of rain to the San Francisco Bay Area from Friday through Sunday, with heavy snowfall forecasted for the Sierra Nevada. Meanwhile, San Luis Obispo County is expected to see scattered showers, with about a quarter-inch of rainfall possible.

For now, L.A. remains in a wait-and-see situation—hoping for more rain, but also bracing for potential fire risks until the season officially comes to an end.