Live updates: Evacuation warnings, road closures in place ahead of powerful Southern California storm system

Southern California is bracing for a series of storms beginning late Sunday night or early Monday, bringing the threat of heavy rain, colder temperatures, and significant snowfall in the mountains. The city of Los Angeles has issued evacuation warnings for areas near recent burn scars due to the potential for rock and mud slides, and debris flows.

Storm System Details

The first storm is anticipated to be the most impactful, with the National Weather Service forecasting 1 to 3 inches of rain in coastal and valley areas, and 2 to 5 inches in the mountains by late Monday. A flood watch is in effect for a wide area of Los Angeles County from Monday morning through Monday evening.

Did You Know? A wind advisory will be in effect from 6 a.m. To 6 p.m. Monday.

Evacuation Warnings and Preparations

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating that city personnel and first responders are taking action to ensure public safety. Residents in burn scar areas are encouraged to follow official guidance, exercise caution while traveling, and stay informed about the evolving weather conditions.

Looking Ahead

While rainfall is expected to lessen Monday night into Tuesday, scattered showers may persist as colder air moves into the region. Snow levels are forecast to drop, initially from around 6,500 feet to near 5,000 feet on Tuesday. A second storm system is expected to arrive Tuesday night into Wednesday, potentially bringing snow levels as low as 2,500 to 3,000 feet, which could create hazardous travel conditions in the mountains.

Expert Insight: The succession of storms highlights the increased vulnerability of areas affected by wildfires. Burn scars lack vegetation, making them particularly susceptible to debris flows even with moderate rainfall.

Forecasters predict an additional 1.5 to 3 inches of rain on Tuesday and Wednesday, with the possibility of 3 to 6 inches in the mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas are under evacuation warnings?

Evacuation warnings have been issued for people living in burn scar areas within the city of Los Angeles.

How much rain is expected?

The National Weather Service forecasts about 1 to 3 inches of rain in coastal and valley areas, and 2 to 5 inches in the mountains by late Monday.

When will the snow levels drop?

Snow levels are forecast to drop from around 6,500 feet early in the storm to near 5,000 feet Tuesday, and potentially as low as 2,500 to 3,000 feet later in the week.

As Southern California prepares for multiple storms, what steps will you take to ensure your safety and stay informed about changing conditions?