With parts of Los Angeles County still smoldering from wildfires, the expected rain this weekend would seem like a welcome relief. But how the rain falls could make the difference between a disaster respite or a disaster repeat.

A wet pattern will bring periods of rain and showers to Southern California, dropping an inch or two in the Los Angeles region — the most to fall since mid-April. It will be key for firefighters continuing to battle flames.

The National Weather Service says much of Ventura County could see a half-inch of rainfall. Here's what to expect this weekend.