los angeles weather: Evacuation Warnings Issued as Powerful Winter Storm Threatens Burn Scars
City and county authorities issued evacuation warnings for neighborhoods near recent wildfire burn scars as a potent winter storm moves through the region. A flood watch will be in effect from Monday morning through Monday evening ET, with officials warning of heavy rain, thunderstorms, high winds and the potential for debris flows on vulnerable slopes.
What residents should expect
The National Weather Service has highlighted the possibility of intense rainfall rates—up to an inch per hour in some downpours—along with damaging gusts that could reach 60 mph and isolated small tornadoes embedded in thunderstorms. Those conditions increase the risk of rock and mud slides in steep terrain and make debris flows especially likely where soils remain unstable after recent fires.
Evacuation warnings target select parcels near burned areas. Warnings mean residents should be prepared to leave on short notice if an evacuation order is issued. Officials stressed that these warnings are precautionary steps intended to give people time to plan and mobilize before conditions deteriorate.
Preparedness and response actions
City resources—first responders, public works crews and other municipal teams—are being staged and readied to respond to impacts. Residents have been asked to follow official guidance, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall, and exercise caution on slick roads and in areas prone to runoff. Motorists should expect hazardous driving conditions and the potential for sudden flooding on low-lying streets.
County emergency management teams are coordinating outreach to vulnerable populations and have activated motel voucher programs to provide temporary shelter for people who need to relocate. Outreach teams will prioritize contact with individuals in high-risk zones and will assist with shelter placements throughout the storm period.
Safety tips and next steps
Households in warning areas are urged to prepare an evacuation kit that includes medications, important documents, water, food, flashlights and a battery-powered radio. Establish an evacuation plan with family members and identify multiple routes out of the neighborhood; roads can become blocked quickly by debris or flooding.
Monitor local emergency alert systems and official channels for real-time orders and updates. If you live below burned slopes or in a canyon, move valuables and vehicles to higher ground when safe to do so, and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. If authorities issue an evacuation order, leave promptly and follow designated evacuation routes.
Officials emphasized that the situation can change rapidly as the storm progresses. Residents should remain vigilant through the watch period and heed any additional advisories or orders issued by local emergency management. The coordinated response effort aims to protect life and property while minimizing disruption, but community readiness remains a critical component of staying safe during this event.
