Rain Won’t Stop Last-Minute Holiday Shoppers in the Coachella Valley

Some continuing coverage of the rainfall tonight across the Coachella Valley brings us to El Paseo in Palm Desert, where residents were still out and about finishing last-minute holiday shopping despite the weather.

While conditions were dry during the evening hours on El Paseo, the region experienced on-and-off rainfall throughout the day. According to locals, the rain did little to slow them down as Christmas quickly approaches.

Many shoppers said nothing—not even the weather—was going to get in the way of completing their holiday errands. However, the rain did impact some local businesses. At Rancho Super Car Wash, customers were met with a closed sign. Employees there said rainy conditions force them to shut down operations, costing workers valuable hours and pay.

Other businesses, however, saw just the opposite effect. The Honey Baked Ham Company experienced a steady stream of customers, with lines forming as families prepared for their holiday meals. Shoppers like Kimberly Wood said stopping their Christmas tradition was never an option, rain or shine, especially with deadlines looming.

Retailers such as Target also remained busy, with parents and shoppers taking advantage of the opportunity to finish gift shopping before heading home.

For those traveling in wet conditions, CAL FIRE issued safety reminders on social media, urging drivers to slow down on slick roads, allow extra travel time due to increased holiday traffic, and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.

As another storm system moves into the Coachella Valley, residents are encouraged to stay informed on weather conditions and potential impacts to holiday plans. Continued coverage of the storm is available online.