Key Takeaways
- Southern California is expected to experience wet weather on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, potentially resulting in the first rainy Rose Parade in two decades.
- The heaviest precipitation is forecasted to fall on New Year’s Day and Saturday, with light showers on Friday.
- The storms are expected to drop 1 to 3 inches of rain in valley and coastal areas and 3 to 5 inches in the mountains.
- Rose Parade officials are prepared for the predicted rain, but spectators should take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm.
- The city of Pasadena is anticipating more medical calls for hypothermia and foot injuries, and spectators are reminded to follow safety guidelines for fires and tents.
Introduction to the Weather Forecast
More wet weather is on tap for Southern California this week, which may result in the first rainy Rose Parade in two decades. According to Mike Wofford, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard, the rain is forecast to reach the Los Angeles area between sunset on New Year’s Eve and the morning of New Year’s Day. The heaviest precipitation will likely fall on New Year’s Day and Saturday, with light showers on Friday. The storms are expected to drop 1 to 3 inches of rain in valley and coastal areas and 3 to 5 inches in the mountains, which is less than what fell during the atmospheric river storms that caused flooding, debris flows, and a tornado last week.
Impact on the Rose Parade
The weather could create a soggy experience for the hundreds of thousands of people who flock to Pasadena each year to watch floats and bands wind their way down 5.5 miles of Orange Grove, Colorado, and Sierra Madre boulevards. Rose Parade officials say they’re prepared for the predicted rain, but spectators should take necessary precautions to stay safe and warm. The last time it rained during the parade was in 2006, and that was only the 10th time in the event’s history. Spectators donned ponchos, participants wrestled with soaked instruments and sodden flags, and four floats broke down, probably due to wet conditions.
Preparations and Safety Guidelines
Pasadena officials are anticipating more medical calls for things like hypothermia and foot injuries from marching in wet socks. City spokesperson Lisa Derderian also expects an uptick in warming bonfires, which can injure bystanders or ignite nearby structures. Spectators should remember that fires must be in professionally manufactured barbecues at least 1 foot off the ground, and tents are forbidden. Those planning to spend the night should instead opt for weather-rated sleeping bags, waterproof clothes, and hand warmers. Umbrellas are prohibited in the parade grandstands, and spectators are encouraged to leave them at home if they’re standing elsewhere along the route.
Logistics and Parking
Residents who live near Rose Bowl Stadium should prepare for the possibility that some cars will need to park on neighborhood streets, as the grass in the overflow game parking area will likely be too saturated. The city does not plan to order additional staffing due to the weather, as most employees will already be on duty. "Pretty much if you work for the city of Pasadena, you’re working either New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, whether you’re police, fire or public works," Derderian said. "It’s an all-hands-on-deck situation." Float riders will have ponchos on standby, and there will be plenty of tow trucks available to haul any displays that break down.
Conclusion and Final Preparations
In conclusion, the wet weather forecast for Southern California this week may result in a rainy Rose Parade, but officials and spectators are preparing for the worst. By following safety guidelines and taking necessary precautions, everyone can stay safe and warm during the event. The city of Pasadena is doing its part to ensure a successful and enjoyable parade, and spectators should do their part by being prepared and respectful of the rules and regulations in place. With a little planning and preparation, the Rose Parade can still be a fun and memorable experience for all, despite the wet weather.