Two powerful storms heading toward Los Angeles this week threaten severe flooding in recent wildfire areas, with officials warning residents to prepare for possible evacuations and the governor mobilizing state resources for emergency response.
The first storm Wednesday could bring a half-inch of rain, while a second system Thursday night may dump up to three inches across the region and six inches in foothills, with wind gusts reaching 30 mph. Rainfall rates could approach one inch per hour near thunderstorms, the National Weather Service said.
Officials warn that burn scars in Pacific Palisades and Altadena are particularly vulnerable to flooding and debris flows. After wildfires, soil can develop a water-repelling top layer that increases flood risk.
Governor Gavin Newsom surveyed ongoing preparation work Tuesday at the Eaton Fire burn scar area in Altadena, where crews have installed emergency protection materials to contain debris from entering waterways.
"California has been in a constant state of readiness preparing for extreme winter weather," Newsom said. "Crews have been on the ground for weeks working to secure areas against possible mudslides and debris flows."
The state has deployed extensive resources to protect vulnerable communities:
- More than 319,000 sandbags and 5,600 super sacks have been positioned throughout Southern California
- 242 CAL FIRE engines are ready to respond statewide
- More than 400 emergency personnel have been prepositioned across eight counties
- Nearly 120 miles of emergency protection materials have been installed to contain burn scar debris
- 70 National Guard soldiers with heavy engineering equipment are supporting debris removal
Caltrans workers are monitoring for rockslides along Pacific Coast Highway and Topanga Canyon Boulevard, while installing erosion-control devices to limit mudflows. Fourteen geologists are studying burn scars to determine potential debris flow locations.
Additional state emergency resources include:
- Eight swiftwater rescue teams
- Eight dozers and five helicopters
- Five heavy rescue teams
- Thirty watershed protection specialists
- Multiple incident management teams
The California Department of Social Services is coordinating with local partners on shelters and warming centers, while the Department of Public Health is supporting healthcare facilities in potentially affected areas.
The incoming storm system will bring widespread impacts across the state, including risks of urban flooding in Southern California, high winds, and heavy mountain snow dropping to elevations as low as 2,000 feet in northern areas.
Emergency officials urged residents to prepare "go-bags" and evacuation plans, particularly in burn scar areas. They warned against driving through flooded roadways and recommended staying indoors during high wind events that could bring down trees and power lines.
"If you're in the storm's path, please remain vigilant and follow all guidance of local authorities," Newsom said.
The storm preparation builds on recent state efforts to manage water resources. On January 31, Newsom signed an executive order directing agencies to maximize storage of excess water from winter storms.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works is offering free sandbags at multiple locations. FEMA officials encouraged residents to purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program.
Updated recovery information is available at ready.ca.gov. Residents in areas affected by recent Los Angeles fires can find specific resources at CA.gov/LAfires.
