Rare Blizzard Warning expires for parts of SoCal

Parts of SoCal faces first Blizzard Warning since 1989

Take a look back to February 1989 when a powerful winter storm hit Southern California.

LOS ANGELES - Southern California residents bundled up as the coldest storm of the season made its way into the region with several weather alerts in place, including the area's first Blizzard Warning since 1989.

Gusty winds, heavy rain, and snow hit the area.

On Thursday, there was even a rare sighting of snow at the Hollywood sign and hail hit the San Fernando Valley.

Studio City hit with sleet

A powerful winter storm brought snow to Studio City.

For the earlier part of the storm, a Winter Storm Warning was in place for SoCal's mountain communities. The storm has since intensified and by Saturday night, up to seven feet of snow is expected at higher elevations. Between two and five inches of snow is expected at elevations above 4,000 feet, which includes most mountain passes.

The National Weather Service said due to the howling winds and heavy snow, a Blizzard Warning was in effect for the mountains in Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino and Riverside counties from 4 a.m. Friday to 4 p.m. Saturday. This applied to areas such as Lockwood Valley, Mount Pinos, Big Bear, Wrightwood and Acton.

What does a Blizzard Warning mean for Southern California?

Meteorologist Dr. Robbie Munroe breaks down what a Blizzard Warning means for Southern California, and what went in to making the decision to declare the area's first Blizzard Warning since 1989.

The storm hit its peak over the weekend and up to 5 feet of snow is expected with wind gusts reaching 55 mph.