Southern California Prepares for New Year's Storm: KTLA Team Coverage

Storm Threat and Evacuation Warnings

• ⚠️ A new storm is targeting Southern California, with rain expected to begin on New Year's Eve.
• 🚨 Evacuation warnings have been issued for LA County, particularly in areas impacted by recent wildfires like the Eaton and Palisades fires, due to the threat of flooding and debris flows.

Weather Forecast and Rainfall Estimates

• 🌧️ The storm will bring moisture from the coast inland, with the heaviest rain anticipated overnight after midnight and continuing through the morning commute.
• 📈 Rainfall rates are expected to be between a quarter and half an inch per hour west of the mountains, and half an inch to an inch in the mountains and foothills.
• ⚠️ Widespread flood watches are in effect from Wednesday 10 PM to Thursday 10 PM, with potential upgrades to warnings if conditions worsen.

Impact of Saturated Ground

• 💧 Despite this storm not being as powerful as the Christmas storm, the oversaturation of the ground poses the greatest risk for flooding and debris flows.
• 🌉 Recent storms have already caused significant damage, including a buckled neighbor's driveway, a destroyed fence, and road closures like State Route 2 in the Angeles National Forest due to rockslides.

Community Preparedness and Road Closures

• 🛠️ Residents are actively preparing by filling sandbags at locations like Pasadena Fire Station 37, which offers sand and shovels around the clock.
• 🚧 Several road closures are in effect or planned, including Topanga Canyon Boulevard starting at 5 PM tomorrow between PCH and Grandview Drive, with reopenings dependent on road and weather conditions.

Rose Parade Preparations Amidst Rain

• ☔ The Rose Parade is expected to be a rainy one, marking the first wet parade in 20 years, but officials confirm it will proceed rain or shine.
• 🧣 Attendees are preparing for the weather with ponchos, blankets, and hand warmers, with some visitors from out of state expressing confidence in handling the elements.
• 🚫 Umbrellas and tents are not permitted along the parade route, and securing spots requires an individual to remain present, as abandoned items will be removed.