LOS ANGELES (KTLA) – Homes spared from the wildfires that impacted Los Angeles County last month could still be affected by mudslides and debris flow as a powerful rainstorm moves toward the region.
A flood watch was issued for parts of Los Angeles County until Friday morning, includingall the recent burn areas.
According to Los Angeles County Public Works, homes surrounding the Palisades, Hughes, Kenneth, Sunset, Hurst, Franklin, and Bridge fire burn zones are all under “Phrase 2” conditions. Those conditions include a moderate risk of debris flows and flash flooding in the mountains.
Los Angeles County officials is offering the following advice to homeowners:
- Assume that burn areas and canyons, hillside, mountain and other steep areas are more likely to have landslides and mudslides.
- Be prepared well before storm conditions are present. As storms approach, monitor the Los Angeles County Public Works Debris and Mudflow Potential Forecast.
- Clear a path for the debris. Always place protection to deflect debris, not to dam or stop it. Be prepared to sacrifice the use of portions of your property to achieve the greatest amount of protection.
- Work with adjacent affected property owners. Avoid altering drainage patterns that could worsen conditions for your neighbor.
- Debris will often enter a building through windows – board them up.
- Limit the height of plants near buildings to 18 inches.
- Use plants and bushes that are less likely to burn and keep them watered. This not only helps with landslides and mudslides but is also helpful for fire safety.
- Inspect slopes for increases in cracks, holes, and other changes. Remove litter and dead/dry vegetation.
- Consult with a soil engineer or an engineering geologist to minimize the potential impacts of landslides.
Los Angeles County Public Works also offers free sandbags to residents across the region. Homeowners must live in the community or city where they are requesting sandbags, and proof of residency is required.
County residents are also urged to sign up for the “Alert LA County” program to receive notifications about where and when they may be in danger.
Most local governments offer similar localized alerts.
