"California Braces for Dramatic Temperature Drop, Hail, and Thunderstorms"

A cold storm is set to bring unseasonably low temperatures and snow to California, with a dramatic drop of 15 to 20 degrees expected from Wednesday's highs. The storm will also bring low-elevation snow, showers, and the potential for severe thunderstorms, with snow levels dropping significantly lower than most storms. Southern California areas could experience historic low temperatures, and the storm's cold nature is expected to increase atmospheric instability, potentially leading to hail, downpours, small tornadoes, and waterspouts. Travel difficulties and subfreezing temperatures are anticipated in various regions across the state.