Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Evacuation Orders Possible for Altadena Burn Areas as Storm Intensifies, Barger Warns

Nearly 400 properties in Altadena and other high-risk burn areas could face mandatory evacuation as Los Angeles County officials escalate debris flow projections in response to a strengthening storm system.

County emergency officials confirmed Monday that conditions have shifted from Phase 1 to Phase 2, signaling increased risk of debris flows in areas previously impacted by wildfire. The change could trigger evacuation orders affecting standing homes in Altadena’s burn zones, though no official directive had been issued as of press time.

“As today’s storm intensifies, I cannot emphasize strongly enough the importance of heeding evacuation warnings and orders,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger in a statement released by her office. “These alerts are issued to protect lives. Conditions can change quickly, and once debris flows begin, it may be too late for emergency crews to reach you.”

Barger acknowledged the disruption evacuation orders may cause but urged residents in warning zones to prepare for immediate departure if orders are issued.

“I know that asking residents to leave their homes is disruptive and difficult,” she said. “But I would rather see people temporarily relocated than anyone put in harm’s way.”

County emergency personnel are actively assessing next steps and the timing of any official evacuation orders. Residents in Altadena are advised to monitor LA County social media channels, local news outlets, and Ready.LACounty.gov for real-time updates and instructions.