By james art 
The first major rainfall in Southern California arrived Saturday night, and the wet weather is expected to continue into Monday.
Heavier showers and thunderstorms are expected Sunday afternoon, with the heaviest rain totals hitting Los Angeles County and the eastern San Gabriel Mountains, according to the National Weather Service.
A flood warning will be in effect from 10 a.m. Sunday. Through Monday at 4:00 PM, with threats of flash flooding and debris/mud flows, especially as they apply to the last burn areas from the LA wildfires.
Up to an inch of rain is expected in parts of L.A. and Ventura counties starting Saturday night, the NWS said.
A 15-25% chance of thunderstorms may also bring gusty winds and small hail to some communities.
Communities in San Bernardino County and the Riverside County Mountains are under a Winter Storm Warning from Saturday evening through Monday afternoon from 4:00 p.m.
Snowfall is expected above 3,500 feet with three to eight inches of snow for most mountain areas. Wind gusts up to 55 mph will blanket the region by Sunday morning.
“Roads, especially bridges and overpasses, will become slick and dangerous,” the NWS warned. “Travel can be very difficult to impossible. Hazardous conditions may affect travel Monday morning. “
Crews have been working throughout the week to fill sandbags and clear streets in case of rocky and muddy conditions.
“Streets may be flooded or blocked by debris, and some high-risk properties in the final burn areas may be advised to evacuate,” LA County officials said Saturday night.
Officials said the likelihood of mudflats increases as the fire burns to the roots of foothills and trees, leaving nothing to hold the soil.
Drivers who must travel during stormy weather are advised to keep an extra flashlight, food and water in their vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest traffic conditions can be obtained by calling 511.
“If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility,” the NWS said. “Leave plenty of space between you and the motorist in front of you and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration and be especially careful on hills or when making turns. Make sure your car is winterized and in good working order. “