Isolated Showers and Storms could Bring Rain and Debris Flows to Los Angeles Areas during a Wet and Dense Environment
Matt Shameson, a weatherman with the U.S. Forest Service, said that the storm would only be beneficial for a couple weeks. It will help us if we get another few decent systems.
But isolated showers and thunderstorms could bring rain that falls at three quarters of an inch an hour, and the heavier rains could lead to debris flows Sunday afternoon through Monday afternoon. The thunderstorms could also kick up strong, damaging winds, drop small hail and cause water spouts over the ocean, the Weather Service said.
The Los Angeles area has seen its driest start to the rainy season on record and has not measured significant rainfall since last spring. The rain gauge in downtown Los Angeles has measured a quarter-inch of rain since May 1. The storm this weekend could bring close to four times that amount.
Mud slides and debris flows are possible because of high rain over a burn scar. In a post on X the NWS Los Angeles office warned that they should follow the instructions of local officials.
“What we’re telling people is to avoid the area during the watch period,” Ms. Lund said. “Use sandbags to protect your property, and if residents decide to stay, make sure to stock up on supplies in case road access is blocked.”
Kristan Lund, a meteorologist with the Weather Service, said flooding was the worst case scenario for the LA area, with a 20 percent chance that debris would damage roads and structures.
The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for those areas from 4 p.m. Sunday to noon on Monday, when there is the highest chance for rain and risk for thunderstorms.
The system was expected to deliver light to moderate rain that will fall intermittently Saturday night through Monday. The weather will allow for a lot of soaking and benefit the crews.
The long spell of dry weather that was starting to end in Los Angeles County was due to the cessation of the Santa Ana winds on Friday, and a cold storm was on its way this weekend.
Los Angeles County Fire Officials said there are dangers in burning areas and the public health need to take precautions to protect yourself from toxins, burn debris and ash
Officials also advise those in wildfire areas to monitor the air quality going forward, and wear an N95 mask whenever there is smoke, dust and ash in the air.
Residents in burned areas who have been cleared by local authorities to return home should take “precautions to protect your health and safety,” Los Angeles County officials said.
She said lead and arsenic can come from burned electronics and building materials, so even a brief exposure could cause skin irritations and lead to more serious illness.
According to Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Director Dr. Barbara, there are harmful substances in the fire debris and ash.
Damage from wildfires pose several safety and health hazards, including from hazardous materials and chemicals, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Firefighters have made progress on the fires, with the Palisade Fire 87% contained, the Eaton Fire 95% contained and the Hughes Fire, which broke out on Wednesday morning, 92% contained, according to a Sunday morning estimate by California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
Bass said it was important to take aggressive action to prevent further damage in burn areas, and to protect our water and ocean from hazardous runoff as soon as possible.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass signed an emergency executive order early last week ordering the installation of reinforced concrete barriers, lay down of bags and clear debris to shore up burn areas to stem the flow of toxins.
The California Department of Fire Protection said that fast moving mud can pose a serious danger to roads and residents should “stay prepared and alert!” Those who are impacted by the fires are urged to be prepared to evacuate to higher ground and have an emergency plan. It should be avoided to drive through areas with debris and flooding.