Crews prepare for mudslides, flooding from L.A. burn scar areas ahead of incoming storm

Ahead of an incoming storm, crews are prepping the Eaton and Palisades burn scar areas as significant rainfall brings high risks of mudslides and flooding.

On Tuesday, Gov. Gavin Newsom visited Altadena and surveyed ongoing work by state crews to prepare burn areas ahead of rainfall. Phase 2 of the large-scale debris removal for Altadena and the Pacific Palisades is underway with help from local and federal agencies.

Crews installed emergency barriers to contain debris from entering creeks and rivers, while K-rails (concrete barriers) and sandbags were placed in vulnerable areas to divert debris flow and protect nearby communities.

After thousands of homeowners lost everything in the fires, many are still mourning the unimaginable loss while remaining hopeful as they recover and rebuild one day at a time.

“The night of the [fires] was really the worst day of my life,” said Margo Stüeber, an Altadena resident. “It was extremely frightening. But I woke up [today] because I was happy. I’m ready to let this go and feel good when all the ash and the rubble is gone and it will open up a new future.”

The incoming storm system, described as “significant” by the National Weather Service, will bring heavy rain, high-elevation snow and gusty winds to the Southland.

Vegetation was burned away from hillsides and without any trees or roots holding the soil together, landslide and mudflow dangers increase significantly. 

For those living downhill from the burn scars, toxic debris and hazardous materials could be swept away by runoff and directly into nearby homes.

A Public Health Advisory was issued for those living near burned structures. 

“Residents in these areas may face an increased risk of exposure to hazardous substances including asbestos from older building materials, heavy metals such as lead, hazardous chemicals from household products, and fine particulate matter created by the fire, L.A. County officials warned.

The incoming rainfall is forecasted to be widespread, with up to an inch of rain falling per hour on Thursday in some areas. Between three and six inches could fall in mountain communities, bringing a high risk for urban flooding on roads. 

On Thursday, a Flash Flood Watch will go into effect around burn scar areas in L.A. and Ventura counties when the storm is expected to peak.

“California has been in a constant state of readiness preparing for extreme winter weather,” Nesom said Tuesday. “Crews have been on the ground for weeks working to secure areas against possible mudslides and debris flows. If you’re in the storm’s path, please remain vigilant and follow all guidance of local authorities.”

Crews will remain in place in vulnerable areas to help mitigate any runoff.

The wet weather could bring a risk of power outages, along with flooding and rockslides, and mudslides on roadways. Residents are advised to stay indoors when possible and, if traveling during the storm is necessary, to proceed with extreme caution.

Residents who need sandbags can check with their local fire station for supplies.