With another storm system expected to reach California later this week, work continues statewide to ensure communities impacted by the recent wildfires, including the firestorms in Los Angeles, are protected.
At Governor Gavin Newsom’s directive, the Cal OES Watershed and Debris Flow Task Force has installed emergency protection materials – straw wattles, compost silt socks, and silt fences to contain hazardous materials from the Eaton and Palisades Fires from entering LA’s creeks, rivers, and other bodies of water. The task force is coordinating locally requested materials such as K-rails to divert debris flow and has completed debris basin clean-up activities over the last month to mitigate potential impacts in vulnerable areas.
Additionally, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is coordinating with the Department of Water Resources, Caltrans, CHP, California Military Department, CAL FIRE, Health and Human Services, the California Conservation Corps, and California Geological Survey to strategically place resources across the state to bolster local response.
Cal OES is monitoring storm impacts and is working closely with local areas that are forecasted to be affected. In particular, the state is closely monitoring recent burn scar areas that pose the threat of mudslides and debris flows. Currently, state actions include:
- DWR is preparing flood fight stockpiles in multiple locations in Southern California to include more than 319,000 sandbags and 5,600 super sacks.
- As part of a Cal OES taskforce, 30 watershed protection specialists have been deployed to burn scar areas.
- Caltrans is actively monitoring for rocks and other debris falling from burned slopes on the Pacific Coast Highway and Topanga Canyon Boulevard.
- Caltrans is placing erosion-control devices, including wattles, to limit mudflows.
- CHP is conducting proactive patrols through the Palisades Fire zone to prevent unauthorized entry.
- The California National Guard has 70 soldiers and heavy engineering equipment standing by in Los Alamitos to support debris removal efforts.
- The California Department of Social Services is monitoring for potential impacts to local communities and is in contact with local officials to ensure that shelters and warming centers are ready to serve communities.
- Cal OES prepositioning the following fire resources in Los Angeles County:
- 10 Local Government Engines
- 2 Local Government Dozers
- 1 Local Government Helicopter with 4 Rescue swimmers
- 1 Local Government Dispatcher
- 2 Local Government Hand crews
According to the National Weather Service, a storm system will bring widespread rain to the area early Wednesday through Friday capable of delivering one to two inches of precipitation and the potential for locally heavy rainfall.
Residents in affected areas are urged to stay informed about potential debris flow risks, especially during storms, and to follow guidance from local emergency officials. For resources and information specific to the Los Angeles firestorms, visit CA.gov/LAfires.
Preparing for upcoming weather
The incoming storm could bring an increased risk of power outages, flooding in small streams and low-lying areas, and debris, rocks and mudslides on roadways.
Cal OES is encouraging residents to not drive through flooded roadways, prepare in advance for power outages and reduce injury risks from falling limbs and trees by staying inside during high wind events.
Residents in the affected counties are urged to stay informed and listen to local authorities about actions they should take including evacuation orders or safety recommendations. In burn scar areas, officials recommend preparing for possible sudden debris flows by having a go-bag packed and knowing evacuation routes.
For more information on winter storm preparedness visit: Listos California