The incoming storm system will bring the most rain to many Southern California cities since the water year began.

The cold system will bring chances of precipitation to the area and beneficial rain to Southern California. SACRAMENTO, Calif — A long, persistent pattern of dry weather has settled in California but some minor changes this weekend will open up chances for rain and snow.

Much of Southern California will see its first raindrops of the winter this weekend. It’s a welcome change, as an unusually dry winter has brought an active and destructive fire season throughout the region.

A storm is brewing and will deliver much-needed soaking rain to wildfire-ravaged Southern California, snow to the mountainsand rain and snow to many areas in the southwestern United States, AccuWeather meteorologists say.