Multiple Storm Systems to Hit Area Starting Monday

One of the last significant storms in Menifee pounded city streets and bent trees in September. Photo courtesy of Lisa Adams

A series of rainstorms being called the first real sign of El Nino is predicted to hit the area starting Monday and continuing through Friday.

The first -- and perhaps weakest -- of four storms is expected to hit Menifee and surrounding areas Monday morning, according to weather.com. There is a 60 percent chance of rain in the morning, clearing later in the day, then the arrival of a second storm front Monday night.

The heaviest rain is expected to fall on Tuesday and Wednesday. Chance of rain on Tuesday is listed at 100 percent, with about a half-inch of rain predicted. On Wednesday, there is a 90 percent chance of rain and another three-quarters of an inch predicted.

The rain is expected to decrease between storm fronts on Thursday, with chances of precipitation 50-60 percent. Then the last front arrives Thursday night to Friday morning, with a 60 percent chance of rain. That will decrease to 10 percent at night, when the low temperature is forecast to be 31 degrees, according to weather.com.

There are no indications of imminent flooding, but as always, motorists are urged to use caution, especially where roads cross Salt Creek.