Thursday, November 13, 2025

County, Local Officials: Significant’ Rain on Tap for Southland; Evacuation Warnings Issued

CITY NEWS SERVICE

The Southland could be in for a “significant” soaking of rain over the next few days, beginning Thursday evening, prompting warnings for residents near recent burn areas to be prepared to evacuate due to the risk of flooding or debris flows.

“Take advantage of the anticipated dry day today to safely clear rain gutters of debris,” urged Pasadena’s Chief Communications Officer Lisa Derderian. “Make sure you have to go bags for all family members, including pets. If in the evacuation warning area that will be in effect at 6 p.m. tonight, please evacuate if the weather escalates and officials issue alerts to leave.”

A large storm system will move into the Central Coast on Thursday afternoon, arriving in the Los Angeles area on Thursday night into Friday, according to the National Weather Service. “The storm will generate periods of moderate to heavy rain Thursday through Saturday, and possibly into early next week.

Derderian said that Pasadena residents can get free sandbags at Fire Station 37 (3430 E. Foothill Blvd.) and Fire Station 38 (1150 Linda Vista Ave.), with a limit of 10 bags per resident. These stations are self-serve locations that are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. while supplies last. Proof of residency is required.

The NWS said that “quite a bit of uncertainty in the progression of the storm exists, however, flooding of roadways and burn scars is possible, especially Friday and Saturday.

“Residents, especially those in vulnerable areas, should start taking precautions immediately to prepare for the storm and protect their interests. This scenario would potentially create many significant impacts area- wide, including possible debris flows in the burn areas, significant ponding of roads and highways, mudslides through the canyons, fallen trees, etc.”

County officials issued an evacuation warning for residents near the Eaton Fire area in Altadena. County officials warned that any other recent burn area could also be at increased risk of flooding or debris flows.

NWS forecasters urged homeowners to prepare for the rain by ensuring gutters are cleared and windshield wipers are secure and working. They said people should consider rescheduling outdoor events, and advised motorists to avoid driving through flooded areas.

The region began experiencing a change in the weather Wednesday, with increasing clouds leading to cooler temperatures, which topped out in the 60s and 70s.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department issued a statement Wednesday urging people to be prepared, offering a series of tips:

• Drive carefully, slow down and allow extra stopping distance;
• avoid flooded roads, turn around, wait it out;
• prepare your property by gathering sand bags, and checking gutters and drains; and
• check the condition of your vehicle and replace windshield wipers and tires if needed.

Sheriff’s officials urged people to use websites like http://Ready.Lacounty.gov to stay up to date on road closures, weather alerts, and emergency notifications.

“Our deputies will be out monitoring conditions and ensuring community safety,” according to the department. “Let’s all do our part to stay safe during the storm.”

Pasadena residents were encouraged to register for the Pasadena Local Emergency Alert System (PLEAS) at CityOfPasadena.net/Fire/PLEAS. Countywide alerts were available through Alert LA County, and evacuation zone maps were posted at protect.genasys.com.