Los Angeles Braces for Potent Storm, Issuing Evacuation Warnings in Fire-Prone Areas
Los Angeles, California – City officials have issued urgent evacuation warnings in advance of an impending potent storm expected to batter the region this week, bringing with it the potential for life-threatening flooding and debris flow in areas recently ravaged by wildfires.
The warning encompasses areas affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires, which scorched thousands of acres across Southern California in November 2023. Amidst concerns about mudslides and debris slides in the fire-stricken terrain, Los Angeles County authorities have enacted road closures, including a section of the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. All public schools in the coastal city of Malibu have also been shuttered as a precautionary measure.
Residents in evacuation zones are strongly advised to monitor emergency updates and heed evacuation orders promptly. "If you decide to stay inside your property in an evacuated area, debris from the burn scar areas and storm may impede roads and we may not be able to reach you," cautioned Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna. "That is not a good scenario or situation for anybody involved."
The evacuation warnings align with a widespread weather event affecting much of California, with an atmospheric river projected to bring heavy rain or snow to the state. Extensive rainfall of 2 to 4 inches is anticipated, with upwards of 8 inches possible in the coastal mountains’ western slopes.
The Sierra Nevada mountains are braced for significant snowfall, prompting authorities to urge caution and avoid mountain passes. The heaviest rainfall is predicted to impact Southern California on Thursday and Friday, coinciding with the heightened vulnerability of fire-scarred areas to landslides and debris runoff.
"The rain will produce flash flooding in urban areas, small streams, and some minor river flooding," warns the National Weather Service. "Heavy rain over the burn scars could trigger life-threatening and damaging flooding and debris flows."
Emergency Preparedness Measures
In preparation for the storm’s impact, residents are encouraged to:
- Monitor emergency updates from local authorities and media outlets.
- Prepare an evacuation plan and collect essential documents, medications, and valuables.
- Be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
- Secure loose objects outside homes and businesses.
- Fill up vehicles with gasoline and ensure they are in good working order.
For more information and updates, residents are encouraged to visit the Los Angeles County website or follow @LACoEmergency on Twitter.
