|
Dear Neighbor,
Los Angeles County is currently experiencing a storm with significant rain and strong winds. As Chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, I have issued a local emergency proclamation. This ensures the County can quickly coordinate resources, protect residents, and accelerate recovery efforts. I have also called a special meeting for Tuesday, Dec. 30, to ratify the proclamation, which allows us to formally request state and federal assistance.
Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency for Los Angeles County, mobilizing additional resources to support local response and recovery. I thank Governor Newsom for his swift action and leadership to protect our communities.
County departments are actively monitoring conditions and standing ready to respond to any emergencies. The National Weather Service reports moderate to heavy rainfall continuing through Thursday, December 26, with additional showers possible later in the week. Earlier today, a brief tornado warning was issued for Alhambra, Monterey Park, and South and East Pasadena; that warning has since been canceled. However, a flash flood warning remains in effect for the San Gabriel foothills.
This storm increases the risk of flooding and debris flows, particularly in areas affected by recent wildfires. County officials are closely coordinating emergency operations and resources throughout the storm.
Official County Updates
For accurate and up-to-date information during this storm or any emergency, visit lacounty.gov/emergency.
Storm Safety Guidance
Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions:
-
Avoid unnecessary travel.
-
Drive cautiously if travel is required and treat non-functioning traffic signals as four-way stops.
-
Sign up for emergency alerts at alert.lacounty.gov.
-
Download the Genasys Alert app or visit genasys.com to check evacuation status.
-
Locate nearby sand and sandbag distribution sites at pw.lacounty.gov/dsg/sandbags.
-
Review the County’s mud and debris flow forecast for your area.
-
Have an emergency plan and alternate evacuation routes.
Prepare essential items in advance, including medications, important documents, and pet supplies.
-
Stay away from downed power lines and flooded roadways.
-
Avoid flood control channels, canyons, and natural waterways during heavy rain.
Flood Safety Reminder
Never attempt to cross flooded areas or enter moving water—on foot or in a vehicle. If someone is swept into moving water, do not attempt a rescue. Call 9-1-1 immediately and, if possible, throw a rope or flotation device.
Agency Preparedness
Evacuation Warnings and Orders are in place due to the current weather forecast and the possibility of mud and debris flows in recent burn areas. Heavy rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms are possible. Always follow directions from emergency personnel. Details of current Warnings and Orders are below:
-
Evacuations Warnings have been issued in areas near recent burn scars due to the risk of mud and debris flow. Anyone in these areas should be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. Gather loved ones, pets, documents, medications, and other important supplies before the storm arrives. Those who need more time evacuating should consider leaving now. This includes those with access or functional needs, older adults, people with young children, and anyone with pets or livestock. Areas under Evacuation Warning can be seen by visiting protect.genasys.com.
-
Evacuation Orders have been issued for specific properties that are at higher risk for mud and debris flow impacts due to the safety risk to people and animals as well as a higher risk for property damage. Law enforcement personnel are in the field making door to door contact to notify these specific properties. Please follow all directions from field emergency responders throughout the duration of this event.
The Winter Shelter Program has also been activated. Augmented shelters are open for unhoused residents. Call 2-1-1 for shelter locations, bed availability, and transportation assistance.
|
