Severe Storm To Soak Echo Park-Silver Lake: 'Avoid Travel’

LOS ANGELES, CA — A major winter storm is heading to the Southland Monday night, bringing rainfall and snow in elevated areas.

The strong storm system was expected to soak much of Southern California with rain and coat mountaintops with snow Monday and Tuesday. Coastal areas and the valleys could get up to 3 inches of rain during the storm, while mountains and foothills could see up to 5 inches.

Impacts from the powerful winter storm could include travel and commute delays due to slick roads and ponding water. Potential debris flows in recent burn areas and mud and rock slides on mountain roads were also expected during moderate to heavy rain, gusty winds and snow.

"Due to the threat of heavy rain bands and a slight chance of thunderstorms capable of producing high-intensity short duration rainfall, there will be the potential for debris flows over recent burn areas as well as significant roadway flooding," according to the NWS.

Rain will progress from northwest to southeast, with the heaviest rain over Los Angeles County expected to fall between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Tuesday, forecasters said.

"Avoid traveling during this storm if you can," the NWS said.

Wind gusts are expected to reach 40 to 65 miles per hour in the mountains and Antelope Valley. Damaging winds could be possible near thunderstorms.

Forecasts expect a significant high elevation snowfall. Snow levels are predicted to start at above 7,000 feet drop to 450 feet by Tuesday night. The Grapevine could see a dusting of snow up to 2 feet.

"On Tuesday the system will move into L.A. County and will likely make a mess of rush hour traffic. A very strong jet will move over the area," forecasters said.

A flash flood watch is already in effect in Santa Barbara County, but Los Angeles County will likely see some watches and warnings as the storm nears.

A gale warning and small craft advisory was issued for mariners along the coast for East Santa Barbara Channel from Pt. Conception to Pt. Mugu CA including Santa Cruz Island and Outer waters from Santa Cruz Island to San Clemente Island, including San Nicolas and Santa Barbara Islands.
"Mariners should alter plans to avoid these hazardous conditions," the NWS said. "Remain in port, seek safe harbor, alter course, and/or secure the vessel for severe conditions."

Health officials advise the public not to swim or surf in ocean waters at and around discharging storm drains, creeks and rivers after significant rainfall due to a possible increase in bacteria, chemicals, debris, trash and other public health hazards.

The Los Angeles Fire Department and county Office of Emergency Management issued a series of reminders related to the potential for mud and debris flow. Among them were:

• Acquire any needed sandbags and instructional materials at your local Los Angeles County fire station.
• Have an emergency plan in place.
• Monitor radio and TV news closely for information about weather conditions and flooding in your area.
• If your neighborhood is evacuated, identify important items to take (e.g., computers, photos, important documents, medications, and other essential items for your family and pets).
• Have enough food and water to supply your family for at least a 72- hour period.
• Remember to include a radio and flashlight with fresh batteries in your emergency kit.
• Stay away from flood control channels, catch basins, canyons, and natural waterways that are vulnerable to flooding during periods of heavy rain.
• Do not attempt to cross flooded areas and never enter moving water on foot or in a vehicle.

"Our emergency response officials are world-class and will stand ready to defend lives, property and infrastructure if there are emergencies caused by this storm," said Kevin McGowan, director of the county Office of Emergency Management. "But, we need collaboration from the public. It is critical for residents to be aware and prepared so that they can help keep themselves safe."

- City News Service and Patch Editor Nicole Charky contributed to this report.