Evacuations Ordered As Storm Slams Southland, Bringing Flash Flood Danger

LOS ANGELES, CA — Officials ordered an evacuation of recent burn areas in Los Angeles and Orange counties, and a flash flood warning was issued amid periods of heavy rain that were expected to continue Saturday and Sunday over much of the Southland.

A citywide flash flood warning was issued until noon Saturday in Los Angeles, with a similar warning in effect for the Eaton burn scar in Altadena and other areas of Los Angeles County, including Malibu, Santa Monica, Glendale, Santa Clarita, San Dimas, West Covina, Pomona, Whittier, Azusa, Torrance, Compton and Inglewood.

That warning was later extended until 2 p.m. in areas also including Angeles Crest Highway, Baldwin Park, Diamond Bar, El Monte, Hacienda Heights and Irwindale.

"Doppler radar and automated rain gauges indicated moderate to heavy showers continuing to move across the warned area," forecasters said. "During this time, folks should be prepared for ample traffic incidents, delays, and a few road closures."

The city of Los Angeles issued an evacuation warning through 11 a.m. Sunday for residents near the Palisades, Hurst and Sunset fire burn zones. Mayor Karen Bass said evacuation orders will be in effect through 8 a.m. Sunday for "select vulnerable properties within burn scar areas."

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said 126 homes were impacted by the evacuation order, all in the Palisades Fire burn area.

An evacuation center was established at the Stoner Recreation Center, 1835 Stoner Ave., in West Los Angeles.

Los Angeles County officials issued an evacuation warning for residents near the Eaton Fire area in Altadena. County officials warned that any other recent burn areas could also be at increased risk of flooding or debris flows, and those residents may also be contacted by law enforcement and given evacuation orders.

In Orange County, authorities issued an evacuation warning for areas near the Airport Fire burn area, including Trabuco Creek, Hot Springs Canyon and Bell Canyon. The American Red Cross' Southern California chapter also opened a shelter at Foothill Ranch Library, 27002 Cabriole in Foothill Ranch.

The city of Los Angeles' Emergency Operations Center has been activated and the Mayor's Office was coordinating with the Emergency Management Department, Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles County Public Works and relevant city departments to ensure all personnel are ready to respond as needed to keep residents safe, officials said.

The county was also offering residents free sandbags for pickup at the Public Works Fleet Maintenance Yard, 252 Mountain View St. in Altadena, and at the Malibu Library parking lot, 23519 W. Civic Center Way. The LAFD was providing free sandbags at fire stations throughout the city, with sand available at some of those locations. A listing of locations and more information is available online.

Gov. Gavin Newsom said the state pre-deployed emergency response crews in Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura counties to enable faster response to any storm-related issues that develop. He said 274 personnel were being deployed, along with 18 engines, three Urban Search & Rescue companies, six bulldozers, three swiftwater-rescue teams, three helicopters and five dispatchers.

According to the National Weather Service, the area is likely to see a few flooded roads, freeway lanes, and on-ramps and off-ramps. Canyon roads, especially vulnerable ones like Topanga Canyon, will likely see mudslides and rockslides.

In and near recent burn scars, shallow debris flows could occur and impact roads, with a moderate risk of significant flows blocking or damaging roads and impacting structures. This includes the Palisades, Eaton and Bridge burn areas, which have the highest threat.

Flash flooding could also occur on the Angeles Crest Highway between Mount Waterman and Wrightwood, and between Mount Wilson and Mount Waterman.

Forecasters urged homeowners to prepare for the rain by ensuring gutters are cleared and windshield wipers are secure and working. They said people should consider rescheduling outdoor events, and advised motorists to avoid driving through flooded areas.

Officials were also warning people to stay off the roads if possible since water can rise quickly and carry people away, adding that most flood deaths occur in vehicles.

Sheriff's officials urged people to use websites such as Ready.Lacounty.gov to stay up to date on road closures, weather alerts and emergency notifications.

City News Service contributed to this report.