Severe Storm Hits Southern California, Triggering Evacuations and Warnings
Just a month after devastating wildfires tore through Los Angeles County, residents braced themselves for another extreme weather event on Thursday. The most significant storm of the season hit the Southland, causing mudslides, flooding, and reports of stranded vehicles.
In Malibu, a cascade of mud and water from a hillside forced the closure of Pacific Coast Highway between Chautauqua Boulevard and Carbon Beach Terrace. Firefighters responded to reports of vehicles trapped in water in Elysian Valley and Panorama City. High rain rates of up to three-quarters of an inch per hour prompted CalTrans crews to clear debris and reduce flooding in various locations.
By mid-afternoon Thursday, the National Weather Service warned of heavy rain moving into Los Angeles County, with rates as high as an inch per hour. The potential for intense rain and increased flooding raised concerns about debris flows in recent fire-ravaged areas.
Jude Bell, a resident of Altadena, faced the impending storm while still grappling with damages from the previous firestorm. The looming rain was just another obstacle for Bell, who expressed a mix of exhaustion and worry.
The Eaton fire in the San Gabriel Valley and the Palisades fire on the Westside left communities vulnerable to post-fire flooding and debris flows. Meteorologist Ariel Cohen emphasized the high-risk nature of the situation and urged residents to be prepared for potential disasters.
Evacuation orders were issued for multiple areas, including Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Malibu, Sylmar, and other regions threatened by the storm. Law enforcement officials went door to door to ensure residents were informed and prepared for evacuations.
In Orange County, the storm prompted evacuations and forced the closure of Knott’s Berry Farm. The risk of debris flows near burn scars led to mandatory evacuations in Trabuco Canyon.
Recent burn scars heighten the risk of landslides during heavy rains, with soil instability and decreased water absorption increasing the potential for destructive debris flows. Areas affected by past fires, such as the Eaton, Palisades, and Bridge fire scars, are particularly susceptible to damage in this storm.
While most of the storm is expected to move out by Friday, the risk of debris flows and flooding remains high in the affected areas. Residents are advised to stay informed, heed evacuation orders, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during and after the storm.