On Wednesday, rain fell over a stormy skyline in Southern California, as a major storm pounded the region on Thursday morning. This storm brought evacuation warnings, fears of mudslides, and at least one tornado. Officials issued flood and severe thunderstorm warnings for parts of the area as steady rain continued to fall. Debris flows in burn areas and scattered hail were reported, along with scattered street flooding. The Los Angeles Fire Department worked to rescue an individual stuck along the Los Angeles River in Boyle Heights. Wind gusts exceeding 50 mph were forecasted in some areas, with a possible tornado spotted in Pico Rivera before sunrise Thursday.
The National Weather Service in Los Angeles reported the potential tornado and planned to send a storm survey team to assess the damage. While the worst of the rain was expected to move out later in the morning, officials warned of a challenging commute. Rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches along the coast and up to 4 inches in the valleys were anticipated, creating potential problems due to the rapid rates of accumulation.
Areas facing southwest could experience heavier showers, thunderstorms, damaging winds, heavy downpours, hail, and even weak tornadoes, according to meteorologist Rose Schoenfeld. The most likely outcome included shallow to minor debris flows, minor flooding, and road inundation. However, there was a 30% to 50% chance of significant flooding and debris flows in flood watch areas, particularly in burn scar regions. Officials advised that rainfall rates exceeding 0.75 inches per hour could trigger significant debris flows in fire-affected areas, potentially causing road coverage, vehicle entrapment, and threats to structures.
Evacuation warnings and orders were issued for Los Angeles communities near the Eaton, Palisades, and Sunset fire burn zones prior to the rain. Specific areas under evacuation warnings included regions near the Getty Villa, Highlands, Bienveneda, Rivas Canyon, Mandeville Canyon, Old Ranch Road, and Rustic Creek. Evacuation warnings were also in place for neighborhoods near Runyon Canyon in the Sunset fire zone and the Hurst fire area.
Several neighborhoods in Malibu, such as Carbon Canyon, La Costa Beach, Las Flores Creek, and Malibu Colony, were also under evacuation warnings. Residents were advised to prepare and pack in case evacuation became necessary as the storm continued to impact the region.
The city is advising residents of Malibu Knolls, Malibu Road, Malibu Country Estates, Puerco Canyon, and Piuma Road to evacuate immediately due to the high risk of flash flooding, debris flows, and mudslides. These dangers present a serious threat to both lives and properties. In the Eaton fire burn scar area, officials are also urging residents to prepare for evacuation in anticipation of the approaching storm.
Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued by the city of Sierra Madre for homes located below the Sierra Madre and Lannan debris basins. Additionally, evacuation warnings have been issued for neighborhoods adjacent to hillsides in the community. These evacuation directives will remain in effect until 6 p.m. on Thursday.
Homes near the San Gabriel foothills in Altadena are also under evacuation warnings. Authorities have identified properties at high risk and have issued specific evacuation orders in those areas.
Mayor Karen Bass’ office released a statement emphasizing the importance of vigilance, especially in burn scar regions, as another storm approaches Los Angeles. For more news, features, and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond, subscribe to Essential California for daily updates.
