Los Angeles is bracing for a multi-day storm system bringing the potential for mudslides, high surf, and gale conditions. Rain and gusty winds are expected to intensify beginning Tuesday evening, prompting flood and evacuation alerts.
Preparing for Impact
The National Weather Service forecasts heavy rain to develop around 6 p.m. Tuesday, lasting until approximately 3 a.m. Wednesday. Lighter to moderate rain is expected to continue through Friday. Officials have warned of possible isolated damaging winds and debris flows, particularly in areas affected by recent wildfires.
An evacuation warning is currently in effect for neighborhoods within the Palisades, Sunset, and Hurst burn scar zones. This advisory, initially issued Sunday, will remain active until further notice. Residents are advised to review emergency plans and be prepared to evacuate if conditions deteriorate.
A citywide flood watch is in effect from 6 p.m. Tuesday through 6 a.m. Wednesday, alongside an active wind advisory covering the same timeframe. Coastal communities, including Pacific Palisades, Playa del Rey, San Pedro, and the Port of Los Angeles, are under a high surf advisory through 10 p.m. Friday. A gale warning for inner coastal waters will be in effect from 8 p.m. Tuesday to 9 a.m. Wednesday.
City Response
The city’s Emergency Operations Center is scheduled to activate overnight. The Mayor’s Office is coordinating with the Emergency Management Department, Los Angeles Fire Department, Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles County Public Works, and other agencies.
Mitigation efforts implemented after the January 2025 wildfires remain in place, including vegetation removal, hillside reinforcement, and debris clearance. The Fire Department has pre-positioned specialized crews for swift-water rescues and mudslide response, whereas police are prepared to assist with potential evacuation orders.
The Department of Water and Power is prepared for potential outages, and LA Sanitation crews are monitoring wastewater systems and maintaining 18 debris basins in the Palisades area. Street Services, the Department of Transportation, and the Bureau of Engineering are monitoring landslide-prone roadways, with crews prepared to deliver sandbags in the Melrose area. Los Angeles World Airports advises travelers to check flight statuses.
County officials are also monitoring the Tujunga Dam for potential releases affecting areas near Oro Vista and the Arizona Crossing.
Staying Informed
Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency notifications at NotifyLA.org and can locate free sandbags at city fire stations, though availability should be confirmed by phone. Authorities urge residents to call 911 for life-threatening emergencies and report non-urgent storm damage through 311 or the MyLA311 system. Downed power lines should be treated as live and dangerous.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are under an evacuation warning?
Neighborhoods within the Palisades, Sunset, and Hurst burn scar zones are currently under an evacuation warning.
When is the flood watch in effect?
A flood watch is in place citywide from 6 p.m. Tuesday through 6 a.m. Wednesday.
Where can residents find more information?
Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency notifications at NotifyLA.org and can report non-urgent storm damage through 311 or the MyLA311 system.
As the storm approaches, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and prepared for potential disruptions.
