Southern California Faces Storm-Induced Flooding and Evacuations

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Southern California was hit hard by the biggest rainstorm of the season on Thursday, leading to numerous flash flood warnings, severe thunderstorms, and mudslides due to recent wildfires. The National Weather Service issued warnings for areas across Los Angeles County, predicting rainfall rates between 0.75 inches and 1.25 inches per hour.

This storm comes just weeks after the devastating Santa Ana winds caused a firestorm that swept through parts of L.A. County. The rainstorm is particularly concerning as it threatens burn scar areas from the Palisades, Franklin, and Eaton fires, which increase the risk of life-threatening debris flows during heavy rain.

“There is now a high risk for a life-threatening debris flow,” stated the weather service. “These flows will have the potential to impact drainages, roads, and residences in areas directly beneath the burn scars,” officials warned.

The storm affected many neighborhoods, including Malibu, the San Fernando and San Gabriel Valleys, downtown Los Angeles, and East L.A. Additionally, the National Weather Service forecasted wind gusts up to 70 mph and possible tornadoes. By early afternoon, rain caused mud to cascade down a hillside on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, trapping at least two vehicles, according to local authorities.

Emergency responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department received reports of stranded vehicles in flooded areas. At around 12:25 p.m., firefighters rushed to Elysian Valley for a pickup truck trapped in water. A silver SUV was also reported partially submerged minutes later in Panorama City.

Earlier in the day, forecasters noted possible tornado activity in Ventura County, with some damage reported to mobile homes in the Oxnard area. This storm also affected residents still dealing with damage from last month’s wildfires.

“I’m just trying to keep my home safe,” said Altadena resident Jude Bell as she awaited a contractor at her home. Despite her property surviving the firestorm, she expressed concern about the potential impacts of the storm. “This rain feels like another hurdle we have to face,” she lamented. Bell was still negotiating repairs with her insurance company, worried about toxic soil conditions.

Officials reported that the recent rain could trigger dangerous runoff in areas burned during previous fires. Ariel Cohen, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard office, emphasized the need for readiness in communities affected by recent wildfires. “If heavy rain sets up over the burn scars, severe debris flows, mudslides, and rockslides are highly possible,” Cohen said.

Evacuations were ordered for several areas, including 106 homes in Pacific Palisades, nine in the area affected by the Sunset fire, and northern Altadena. The Los Angeles Police chief stressed that these are mandatory evacuations for public safety.

In Altadena and Malibu, residents visited local hardware stores stocking up on sandbags and other protective equipment. “They’re scared; I’m scared too,” said cashier Paola Vargas, who also lives in Altadena. Many shoppers expressed anxiety over preparing for flooding after having just evacuated due to fires.

The storm prompted substantial rainfall, leading to flooding across L.A. County freeways and resulting in road closures. Mandatory evacuation notices were broadcast, urging residents in at-risk areas to prepare for potential mudslides and flooding.

This storm marks a critical point in Southern California’s rainy season, especially after months of drought conditions, as officials continue to monitor forecasts for additional rain patterns through the coming week.