Storm Front Expected to Move Inland

Rain showers that contributed to a series of traffic accidents Saturday on Ventura County roads were expected to taper off this morning, with the Christmas Day forecast calling for overcast skies and temperatures in the low 60s, authorities said.

Many of the accidents occurred Saturday afternoon as cars collided on rain-slicked streets and freeways during the last-minute Christmas shopping rush, authorities said. None of the late afternoon accidents resulted in serious injuries, a spokesman for the California Highway Patrol said.

Though the National Weather Service predicted a 10% chance of rain for this morning, forecasters said the possibility will diminish as the storm front from the Gulf of Alaska moves inland in a southeasterly direction.

Meanwhile on Saturday, at least eight motorists had been arrested on suspicion of drunk driving since a maximum enforcement period began at 6 p.m. Friday night, the CHP said. The enforcement period will continue through the long holiday weekend.