Los Angeles Hit by Unseasonal Storm, Flooding and Evacuations Reported Across Southern California
A powerful and unusually early October storm drenched Southern California, triggering flash floods, mudslides, and emergency evacuations in wildfire-scorched areas. Heavy rain, debris flow, and road blockages caused widespread concern across Los Angeles County and nearby regions.
Up to 5 inches of rain fell in mountain areas, while most city regions saw around 1–1.5 inches.
Evacuation orders were issued for more than 115 homes in the Pacific Palisades and Mandeville Canyon neighborhoods due to mudslide risks.
Several people and two dogs were rescued from the swollen Los Angeles River.
By late evening, flood warnings were lifted in some zones as rainfall eased, but authorities continued to monitor hillside areas.
The recent Palisades wildfire left the ground hardened and unable to absorb water, turning hillsides into dangerous mud channels.
Experts warned that ash, burned debris, and chemicals from charred areas could wash into rivers and the Pacific Ocean, worsening water pollution and coastal contamination.
A section of the Pacific Coast Highway was covered with nearly three feet of mud, and a fire department vehicle was briefly swept toward the ocean by debris flow.
The National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings across multiple Los Angeles County zones.
Emergency crews cleared drains and removed mud to prevent road blockages.
Officials urged residents to stay alert, especially those in canyons and hillside communities prone to mud and debris slides.
Environmental teams are testing nearby waterways for possible chemical runoff
While skies cleared by nightfall, forecasters cautioned that additional storms could hit later in the week. Authorities emphasized long-term concerns about the impact of post-fire erosion on Southern California’s fragile ecosystems.
