Heaviest rain expected in morning, up to 5 inches

California has been on watch for the last couple of days as a major storm system approaching from the north edges its way toward Los Angeles and Orange counties.

While the rain arrived later than expected, it checked in near 6 p.m. Friday with drizzling in Costa Mesa.

Los Angeles is expected to get the brunt of the storm, but Orange County may get hit with two to five inches of rain, with gusty winds reaching 15 to 25 mph through the weekend and the heaviest rain coming early this morning, according to the National Weather Service.

Those living in areas affected by recent wildfires will likely face mudslides, according to authorities. Voluntary evacuations are being called in Modjeska and Silverado Canyons.

A flash flood warning is also in affect for Orange County. During heavy bouts of rain, levels of bacteria in the waters rise, according to the Health Care Agency of Orange County. Officials advise staying away from ocean, river, creek and bay water runoff for three days after rainstorms.

The direction of the wind isn’t expected to increase chances for good surfing conditions. Newport Beach Ocean Lifeguards are predicting waves of 1 to 3 feet.

— Daniel Tedford