A storm hit southern California, including the Culver City Real Estate area, Monday, bringing with it rain and snow that is likely to continue throughout most of the week. The storm has created dangerous travel conditions and also raised the fears of widespread flooding and mudslides. Martin Feinberg, Realtor, notes that areas that have experienced wildfire damage are especially prone to mudslides and debris flows. L.A. County is at high risk due to the Woolsey fire a few months ago.
A little after 6:30 on Monday morning the National Weather Service issued an Urban and Small Stream Flood Advisory for western Los Angeles County. Culver City was included in the list of areas that could experience flooding.
L.A. County coast also experienced high surf warnings on Monday, with breaking waves around 5-8 feet by Monday afternoon. The high surf is likely to continue through Friday.
According to the National Weather Service, such conditions create “an increased risk for ocean drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Large breaking waves can cause injury, wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore.”
Forecasters warned swimmers who get caught in a rip current to “relax and float. Don’t swim against the current. If able, swim in a direction following the shoreline. If unable to escape, face the shore and call or wave for help.”
National Weather Service meteorologist Todd Hall stated, “The storm arriving Monday will produce between a half-inch and an inch- and-a-half of rain and up to 2-and-a-half inches in the mountains and foothills. The three storms expected this week should generate between 3 and 6 inches of rain in coastal valleys and 7 to 9 inches in mountains and foothills.”
“It’s going to be a very wet week for Southern California,” Hall said.
Hall also stated that the Woolsey Fire area in Ventura County and in the Malibu area in L.A. County is the most vulnerable of the region’s burn areas. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department highlighted the risks in a statement.
“Authorities warn that all residents who live in or near the Woolsey Fire burn area should remain aware of their surroundings and weather conditions during these storms. Even small amounts of rainfall rates may result in significant mud and debris flow, so we strongly encourage residents who live in or near Woolsey Fire burn areas to be ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Captain Darren Harris.
“If you feel unsafe or think that hazardous conditions near your home may develop, do not hesitate to leave. Elderly residents, individuals who have medical conditions and residents who own large animals should make plans now to leave their homes as a precaution.’
L.A. County public safety officials stated, “As a series of winter storms hits L.A. County, residents who live in or near recent burn areas should remain vigilant and prepare for possible evacuation. Communities in low-lying areas or next to steep slopes or waterways are particularly at-risk of mudslides and falling debris.
As a series of winter storms hits L.A. County, residents who live in or near recent burn areas should remain vigilant and prepare for possible evacuation. Communities in low-lying areas or next to steep slopes or waterways are particularly at-risk of mudslides and falling debris.”.
“If your property becomes unsafe and there is no time to evacuate, seek safe high-ground,” urged the sheriff department statement. It added:
“Since all canyon roads may be blocked and subject to closure for extended periods, residents should have enough food, water, medication and supplies for at least seven to 10 days for all family members, including pets and large animals.”
Local listing agent Martin Feinberg reminds readers that the rain is forecast through Thursday and to stay vigilant.
