Burn Area Residents Urged to Prepare for Rainstorm, Potential Evacuations

LA County Public Works Issues Urgent Warning

Residents near burn areas in LA County were advised to take precautions before the rainstorm slated to bring potential mudslide risks. LA County Public Works urged neighbors living in areas impacted by the recent wildfires to prepare for potential flooding and debris fallout.

Possible Mud and Debris Flows in Burn Areas

"Small, isolated mud and debris flows are possible in burn areas with less than two years of recovery. Streets may be flooded or blocked by debris, and some high-risk properties in recent burn areas may be advised to evacuate. LA County Public Works is collaborating across the region with multiple agencies to protect the public, property, and the environment from potential mud and debris flows," wrote LA County Public Works.

Cooler Weather Brings New Concerns

The cooler weather is expected to help with the ongoing firefight and air quality in Los Angeles but could bring new concerns. Rain will be scattered, light to moderate, Saturday night through early Sunday morning. However, thunderstorms are possible later in the day on Sunday that could produce heavier downpours, according to NBC4 Meteorologist Shanna Mendiola.

Risk to LA’s Burn Scars at Highest on Sunday and Monday

Sunday afternoon through Monday evening is when the risk to LA’s burn scars will be at their highest.

Mayor Issues Emergency Order

Mayor of Los Angeles Karen Bass issued an emergency order that "marshals City Public Works crews to clear and remove vegetation, shore up hillsides, reinforce roads and clear debris from neighborhoods and burn areas ahead of rainy weather."

Free Sandbags Available at Fire Stations

Ahead of the rainfall, which is forecast to begin Saturday and stay through the weekend, fire stations are offering residents free sandbags to protect their properties. Los Angeles County requires residents picking up sandbags must reside within the community where they are picking up the resource. Proof of residency will be required upon picking up the bags.

Important Information

• Please call the fire station/location listed for availability of sand and sandbags.
• Please be aware: due to demand, sand & bags may be temporarily out of stock. The Los Angeles County Fire Department, Beaches & Harbors, and Department of Public Works are working in a coordinated effort throughout the storm to ensure supplies remain available.

To See Your Nearest Sandbag Distribution Center, Click Here

Conclusion

Residents living in burn areas are urged to take necessary precautions and prepare for potential flooding and debris fallout as a result of the upcoming rainstorm. With the risk of mud and debris flows, it is crucial to take necessary measures to protect one’s property and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I do to prepare for the rainstorm?
  • Take necessary precautions to protect your property and safety.
  • Check for sandbag availability at your nearest fire station.
• What are the risks associated with the rainstorm?
  • Mud and debris flows in burn areas, potential flooding, and blocked streets.
• What should I do if I need to evacuate?
  • Follow instructions from local authorities and evacuate promptly to ensure your safety.