A series of storms is sweeping through Los Angeles County, with the final and strongest one predicted to affect the area late Saturday night through Monday. The combined rainfall totals for all three storms could be 3.00-6.00” for coastal and valley areas, with up to 9.00” possible in some foothill and mountain areas. Potential impacts include flash flooding and debris flows for recent burn areas, rock and mudslides along canyon roads, urban and small stream flooding, significant travel delays, isolated power outages, and dangerous driving conditions.
Los Angeles County departments are working together to keep residents safe during these storm events. “Although the County has world-class emergency response agencies ready to help individuals adversely affected by these storms, each person living in Los Angeles County should take basic precautions during these back-to-back storms” stated Jeff Reeb, Director of the Office of Emergency Management. Residents can take the following steps to keep safe and informed:
- Stay out of riverbeds and flood control channels during storms. Water flow during storms is powerful, unpredictable and dangerous. Dial 9-1-1 immediately if you see someone caught in a channel during a storm.
- Slow down and drive with care in the rain. Always use headlights any time windshield wipers are in use. Allow plenty of room between vehicles.
- Avoid driving through pooled water. Standing water is often deeper than it looks, and it can often conceal tire-damaging debris.
- Do not attempt to cross swift moving water; as little as two feet of rushing water can sweep a vehicle away. Turn around – don’t drown.
- Storms can bring damaging high surf and dangerous rip currents to coastal areas, especially along west-facing beaches. Stay off rock jetties. Avoid areas near runoff drains. Watch out for trash and debris.
- Help keep your neighborhood flood safe by parking vehicles and placing trash containers away from catch basins.
- Avoid parking on streets subject to mud and debris flows.
- Remember pets, especially as temperatures drop. Towel off wet animals when bringing them inside. Thunderstorms are especially frightening to many pets.
- Report clogged drains, blocked roads or fallen trees in unincorporated areas by calling LA County Public Works Dispatch at 800-675-HELP (4357).
- Visit the County’s Storm Season website (www.lacounty.gov/LARain) to view tips on how to prepare your home, where to pick up sandbags, and how to subscribe to AlertLA County so that emergency messages are sent to your mobile phone or email.
