Rain Forecasted to Drench Area Through Saturday

WEATHER UPDATE 2/18/11:

An urban and small stream flood advisory was issued for Southwest Riverside County at 7:50 p.m. Friday. The National Weather Service will have the advisory in effect until 7:30 a.m. Saturday, and advised motorists not to drive their vehicles into places where water covers the roadway.

A wind advisory was also issued at 8:26 p.m. Friday by the weather service. Gusts in Inland valley areas could reach 40 mph. The wind advisory is in effect until 7 a.m. Saturday.

There is still a 90 percent chance of rain through Saturday afternoon, with a 70 percent Saturday evening.

ORIGINAL POST 2/17/11:

A strong Pacific storm will arrive Friday and last into Saturday night, according to a special weather statement issued by the National Weather Service out of San Diego.

The storm is expected to be accompanied by strong, gusty winds at times and could bring between 1.25 to 2 inches of rain to Riverside County valleys. The area is on flash flood watch from Friday afternoon to Saturday morning.

Murrieta residents can expect a 30 percent chance of rain through Friday afternoon, then a 90 percent chance of rain after 10 p.m. Friday, when thunderstorms are also possible.

The weather service predicts rain will taper off by early Sunday morning. Motorists were advised to use caution on rain-slicked roads.