Maximum evacuation alert in Los Angeles due to winter storm and flood risk

A powerful winter storm is impacting California since mid-February, creating critical conditions that have forced authorities to activate preventive evacuation procedures in at-risk areas. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts heavy rain, dangerous winds, and significant snow accumulations in mountainous regions, while local governments deploy resources and recommendations to protect the population.

Evacuation Order in Areas Affected by Previous Fires

Los Angeles City Hall issued a preventive evacuation order that remains active for residents of areas previously impacted by the Palisades, Sunset, and Hurst fires. According to municipal authorities, this evacuation measure is due to the significant risk of mudflows and debris that heavy rains could generate in these vulnerable sectors. The city’s Emergency Operations Center has been activated to coordinate the response, and residents in affected areas are urged to register at NotifyLA.org alert portal for real-time updates.

The order specifies that evacuation of these sectors should be carried out with caution, recommending residents review contingency plans, gather essential documents, and keep their basic belongings organized and ready to leave if necessary.

Severe Storm System Produces Heavy Rain and Dangerous Winds

The cold front is crossing California bringing moderate to heavy precipitation depending on the region. In the Valley and northern San Joaquin, moderate rain with isolated thunderstorms is forecasted, while the Central Coast experiences a transition from dry to rainy conditions. During the night, the system moves southward, extending precipitation from the north to the south of the state.

In the San Francisco Bay Area, rain continues driven by cold air advection from the northwest, with a chance of isolated thunderstorms. For San Diego, a second round of more widespread precipitation affects the region, extending into the next morning. Wind gusts reach speeds of 35 to 45 miles per hour along coastal areas, posing additional hazards for navigation and outdoor operations.

Road Closures and Impact on Public Services

Los Angeles County Public Works Department has closed multiple critical mountain routes as a safety measure. Only emergency vehicles are allowed on Angeles Forest Highway (from Aliso Canyon Road to Highway 2), Big Tujunga Canyon Road (from Angeles Forest Highway to Vogel Flat Road), and Upper Big Tujunga Canyon Road (from Angeles Forest Highway to Angeles Crest Highway).

The popular Six Flags Magic Mountain theme park announced closures due to rain and strong winds. Visitors with tickets for this period can reschedule their visit for any normal operating day until the end of the year, with a free compensation option.

Urban Flooding and Emergency Rescues

Agencies report flooding in urban sectors including Hollywood, North Hollywood, and Sawtelle, where at least one person required rescue from a vehicle trapped in accumulated water. Local firefighters continue responding to emergency calls related to flooding in low-lying areas and near storm drains.

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued a water quality alert for all county beaches, recommending avoiding contact with ocean water due to possible high levels of bacteria resulting from runoff. Residents should especially avoid approaching storm drains, streams, and rivers.

Snow in Mountains and Winter Alerts for Elevated Regions

South Lake Tahoe is under a winter storm warning with projected snow accumulations between 24 and 35 inches, especially on the west coast and much of Alpine County. Authorities (California Highway Patrol) advise traveling only when absolutely necessary, citing dangerous conditions that compromise road safety.

In Central Coast mountains, expected snow accumulation due to dropping temperatures has prompted winter weather advisories. Sacramento experiences lower snow levels, although the system’s precipitation remains significant for the region.

Protective Measures and Emergency Alert Registration

Los Angeles City Hall encourages all residents to register at NotifyLA.org to receive personalized emergency alerts. Citizens can select multiple notification channels including cell phone, landline, email, text messages, and TTY devices to ensure they receive critical information.

City fire stations distribute free sandbags to residents for property protection against flooding, though prior confirmation of availability is recommended. The 311 hotline will operate extended hours for reports of flooding, fallen trees, and structural damage, while 911 should only be contacted in life-threatening situations. Any fallen electrical cables should be considered energized and dangerous; for power outages, residents can report at www.ladwp.com/outages or call 1-800-DIAL-DWP.

The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is preparing personnel and rescue resources in high-risk flood and mudslide areas. Californians are urged to register at ready.ca.gov to access state emergency alerts.

Post-Fire Recovery Context and International Cooperation

The current evacuation situation occurs as California continues recovering from previous fires. On the international stage, Governor Gavin Newsom participated in the Munich Security Conference, where he signed memoranda of understanding with leaders from Ukraine, Germany, and Spain focused on climate cooperation and sustainable development.

Newsom also visited the UK-based clean energy company Octopus Energy, which committed nearly $1 billion toward companies and projects in California focused on clean energy. However, former President Donald Trump criticized these agreements, questioning the viability of partnerships with the state, citing environmental and policy issues.

Separately, economic data show that gasoline prices in California have risen sharply in recent weeks, reaching an average of $4.58 per gallon, surpassing the national average of $2.92. This increase is due to the operational shutdown of Valero refinery in Benicia and the previous closure of Phillips 66 plant in Los Angeles, reducing refining capacity in the state.