Southern California is preparing for several days of heavy rain, flash flooding, and potential mudslides as a powerful storm system settles over the region. The National Weather Service warns that the most intense rainfall will continue through Saturday afternoon, with wet conditions likely lasting into next week.
Communities near burn scars remain at the highest risk, and both evacuation warnings and mandatory evacuation orders are in place for multiple areas.
Flash Flood Warnings Across Los Angeles County
A flash flood warning was issued Saturday morning for a broad area stretching from Santa Clarita to Glendora, including major population centers such as:
- Los Angeles
- Burbank
- Glendale
- Pasadena
- Hollywood
- North Hollywood
- West Covina
- Altadena
- The Eaton Fire burn zone and other burn scar areas
Additional warnings were issued for Torrance, Compton and Inglewood, highlighting the widespread hazard across the county.
City officials also issued evacuation warnings for neighborhoods near the Palisades, Hurst and Sunset fire burn zones, with evacuation orders covering 126 high-risk homes.
Events Canceled and Travel Delays Expected
The storm has already disrupted weekend plans. A major 5K event in Camarillo was canceled due to flooded conditions on the course. Organizers of the Malibu Half Marathon announced that updates will follow as conditions develop.
Motorists across the region are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, with authorities warning of:
- Slippery roads
- Low visibility
- Localized flooding
- Downed trees and power lines
A viral video from the 405 Freeway showed a Tesla skidding across lanes during heavy rain—an example of how quickly conditions can become dangerous.
Damage Reports Begin as Storm Intensifies
As rainfall increased, some communities experienced early damage:
- In Lake Balboa, a massive tree toppled and crushed a parked car.
- In Ojai, a boulder slid down a hillside and smashed into an SUV during the morning commute, though no injuries were reported.
- In Studio City, residents remain on edge following last year’s devastating mudslide that damaged multiple homes.
Steep hillsides, saturated soil, and unstable terrain continue to raise concerns about debris flows in canyon and mountain neighborhoods.
Evacuation Orders Issued for High-Risk Burn Scar Zones
Due to the heightened mudslide threat, Los Angeles officials issued mandatory evacuation orders for 126 residences located near the following burn scar areas:
- Palisades
- Canyon
- Eaton
- Hurst
- Sunset
- Kenneth
- Lidia
- Franklin
- Bridge
Residents were instructed to leave by 8 p.m. Friday, with orders remaining in effect until Sunday morning. Deputies have been going door-to-door to ensure residents are informed and have evacuated safely.
An evacuation center has been opened at Stoner Recreation Center for those displaced by the storm.
San Bernardino and Orange County Communities on Alert
Evacuation warnings are also in place for several San Bernardino County communities near burn scars from the Bridge Fire and El Dorado Fire, including:
- Mount Baldy Village
- East Highland
- Yucaipa (northeast)
- Wrightwood
- Seven Oaks
- Forest Falls
In Orange County, voluntary evacuation alerts were issued for areas near Trabuco Creek, Bell Canyon and Hot Springs Canyon due to flooding risks.
Shelters have been opened for residents who choose to leave.
City Officials Say They Are Prepared—But Storm Is Unpredictable
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and emergency leaders emphasized that while some neighborhoods may experience minimal impact, others could face life-threatening floods and debris flows.
The National Weather Service highlighted the unpredictable nature of the system, noting:
- Intense rain bands may develop with little warning
- Localized flash flooding is likely
- Burn scar areas remain extremely vulnerable
- A brief, weak tornado is possible in isolated areas
Residents are urged to stay home if possible, avoid canyons, and keep away from streams and creeks.
More Rain Likely in the Days Ahead
After the heaviest rainfall passes, light showers may continue into Saturday night. A weaker third storm is expected to arrive on Monday, prolonging wet conditions across Southern California.
Officials recommend:
- Preparing sandbags
- Checking gutters and drains
- Securing outdoor items
- Monitoring local weather alerts continuously
Southern California remains on high alert as the storm continues to move through the region, bringing dangerous flooding conditions and heightened mudslide risks to vulnerable communities.
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