LA County Officials Provide Critical Storm Update Ahead of Holiday Weekend

Storm Preparedness and Expectations

• 🌧️ An atmospheric river is expected to bring significant rainfall to Los Angeles County from today through Thursday, potentially one of the wettest Christmases in recent history.
• ⚠️ Officials are warning of strong winds, mudslides, flooded freeways, and downed power lines, urging residents to stay informed and prepared.
• 🏠 Preparations include distributing sandbags, assisting those in flood or mudslide-risk areas, and issuing evacuation warnings for recent fire-scarred regions.

Evacuation Orders and Warnings

• 🚨 Evacuation orders are in effect for areas with immediate danger, while evacuation warnings indicate potential danger, requiring residents to be prepared to leave.
• 🚪 Sheriff's deputies are conducting proactive outreach, including door-to-door notifications, for vulnerable residences.
• 🆘 Unhoused individuals are encouraged to call 211 for assistance, and 911 for emergencies.

Public Works and Flood Control Measures

• 🌊 The Los Angeles County Public Works is prepared for a warm winter storm event, with up to 10 inches of rain expected in mountain areas and 4-8 inches in valleys.
• 🛠️ The county maintains a robust flood control system, including dams, reservoirs, debris basins, and miles of channels and storm drains.
• ⚠️ Residents are strongly advised to avoid flowing water, streets, rivers, lakes, and channels, as even 6 inches of moving water can move a small car.

Fire Department and Emergency Management Response

• 🔥 The Fire Department has augmented resources and staffing to respond rapidly to storm-related incidents, including potential mud and debris flows in burn scar areas.
• 📱 Residents are urged to sign up for emergency alerts via Alert LA and to create an evacuation plan.
• ⚡ Preparedness includes assembling an emergency go-bag, checking real-time conditions, and avoiding standing water and debris on roadways.

Public Guidance and Safety

• 🚗 Officials emphasize avoiding unnecessary travel during the storm and advise leaving early, slowing down, and avoiding mountain roads and burn scar areas if travel is unavoidable.
• 🏠 For those not under evacuation orders, seeking shelter in a flood-free home or designated shelter is the safest option.
• 🌐 Comprehensive information and preparedness tips are available at lacount.gov/emergency and alertla.org.