'Prepare Like Your Life Is On The Line,' Meteorologist Warns Malibu Residents Amid Storms

MALIBU, CA — After a soaking-wet morning that led to flooding and traffic jams across the Southland Thursday, forecasters say the worst is yet to come as another storm is set to pummel Southern California this weekend — and one meteorologist says he's "extremely worried" about the storm's impact in Malibu, which could see as much as 15 inches of rain this weekend.

"If you live in Santa Barbara/Malibu I am BEGGING you to prepare like your life is on the line next week," San Francisco Chronicle meteorologist Anthony Edwards wrote on X Thursday.

Indeed, the National Weather Service says this weekend's storm is "shaping out to be a life-threatening flooding situation," particularly for Malibu and Santa Barbara.

The next series of storms are expected to move into the region Saturday night, with the heaviest rain Sunday night. The greatest risk of life-treating flooding in LA County will run from Sunday to Monday night, according to the National Weather Service.

"Chances are increasing that a lengthy period of heavy rain will develop late Saturday night and continue through most of Sunday and Monday," the NWS said. "Rainfall rates expected to easily reach a half inch per hour, especially in the south facing mountains."

Because the ground is already saturated from the rain Thursday, this weekend's forecast rain will cause much quicker flash flooding — with the greatest risk in south-facing mountains, like the Santa Monica Mountains that traverse Malibu, the NWS said.

"Everyone, especially those near or in south-facing mountains, needs to start preparing now for possible evacuations during or even before the storm hits," the NWS said.

Malibu could see as much as 15 inches of rain. Other areas in LA County could see between 3 and 12 inches, according to the NWS.

Sandbags, which can be used to divert water in flood-prone properties, are available to Malibu residents at local Los Angeles County Fire stations.

Officials also urge residents to clear gutters and storm drains.