Rains sweeping into the Los Angeles basin are setting off precautionary actions as authorities prepare for possible debris flows in burn zones. In the latest update, Pepperdine University will move Malibu and Calabasas classes to remote status, with on-campus activities resuming Wednesday. Topanga Canyon Boulevard will shut down nightly along a slope‑prone corridor, starting at 10 p.m. tonight through early Tuesday.
The 3.6‑mile stretch between the Pacific Coast Highway and Grand View Drive is under construction and known for instability. Officials say the closure will begin at 10 p.m. and run until 5 a.m., two hours earlier than the usual midnight window due to the wet weather.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced state readiness, with swiftwater rescue teams and debris‑flow crews moving into Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange and Santa Barbara counties. The response includes more than 200 personnel and equipment such as fire engines, bulldozers, hand crews, helicopters and front‑loaders to bolster local efforts.
Earlier update
The first meaningful rainfall in several months brings moisture that could ease fire risk, but it also heightens the chance of mudflows around recent burn scars from last season’s blazes. Officials caution that conditions could trigger debris flows in vulnerable zones as the storm moves through the region.
Weather watch
The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory for much of L.A. and Ventura counties, forecasting southwest winds of 15 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. Forecasters say the strongest winds will hit the hills and peaks, with a potential for thunderstorms and, in rare cases, tornadoes.
An updated advisory warns that chances for significant debris flows near burn scars in Eaton, Palisades and Bridge areas have risen. Residents near burn scars should heed law enforcement guidance, limit travel and be prepared to evacuate if orders are issued.
Authority notes
Los Angeles County Supervisors Chair Katheryn Barger indicated that officials are weighing possible evacuation orders for the Eaton Canyon/Altadena corridor. She warned that as many as 400 properties could fall under a mandatory evacuation, urging residents in risk zones to be ready to move if an order is issued.
While the rain could curb a repeat of January’s fires, it comes after a dry 2024 that left fuels parched. Officials note that seven months have passed since burn areas last received substantial rainfall, and the coming system may help blunt the traditional fire cycle as fall arrives.
City News Service contributed to this report.
City News Service contributed to this report.
Source: Original article
