Los Angeles Prepares for Weekend Rain

By: Pamela Price
Around LA, Featured, Lifestyle
October 30, 2026, 6:54 pm
Photo Credits: Mayor Karen Bass Office

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is urging residents, particularly those living near wildfire burn scar areas, to prepare for potential weather hazards as rain is expected to move across the city through Sunday.

According to the National Weather Service, light rain is forecast beginning Friday, October 30, with less than one inch of precipitation anticipated across Los Angeles. However, residents in areas affected by recent wildfires are being advised to remain vigilant for possible mudslides and debris flows.

Following the January 2025 wildfires, Mayor Bass issued an Emergency Executive Order directing City Public Works crews to reinforce vulnerable hillsides, install protective barriers and clear debris from affected neighborhoods. Many of these safeguards remain in place throughout Pacific Palisades, including sandbags and more than 13,000 feet of K-rail barriers.

City departments are continuing to inspect hillsides, burn areas and other vulnerable locations for potential flooding, landslides and debris flows.

The Los Angeles Fire Department has increased specialized resources for swift water rescues, while the Department of Water and Power is preparing crews to respond to possible power outages. Street Services, the Bureau of Engineering and LADOT are monitoring roadways and known landslide-risk areas. LA Sanitation crews are also inspecting drainage systems and debris basins to help prevent blockages and manage stormwater.

The city is also coordinating outreach to people experiencing homelessness, particularly those living near waterways and in flood-prone areas.

“Preparedness is a marathon, not a sprint. That’s why, while we don’t know how much wet weather Los Angeles will get this winter, we are taking action to keep Angelenos safe,” said Mayor Bass.

The city is preparing for a potentially historic El Niño season in Southern California. According to the Mayor’s office, crews have cleared more than 31,000 catch basins and drainage sites and 50 debris basins. Teams are also monitoring nearly 250 high-risk grading and construction sites and preparing additional protective measures at 25 locations throughout the city.

Bass is encouraging residents to sign up for emergency alerts through NotifyLA and attend the city’s next emergency preparedness town hall on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 6 p.m. in San Pedro.

How Angelenos Can Prepare

Before the Storm

Residents are encouraged to:

Sign up for emergency alerts at NotifyLA.
Prepare an emergency kit with medications, flashlights, important documents and pet supplies.
Check their property’s flood zone through the Los Angeles County Flood Zone Determination website.
Pick up free sandbags at participating LAFD fire stations.
Clean gutters and yard drains, secure outdoor furniture and charge mobile devices.

During Severe Weather

Residents should follow official evacuation or shelter-in-place instructions, avoid unnecessary travel and never walk or drive through floodwaters. Downed power lines should always be considered live and reported to LADWP at 1-800-342-5397.

After the Storm

Flooding, mudslides, fallen trees, potholes and clogged storm drains can be reported by calling 3-1-1 or using the MyLA311 app. Residents should also inspect hillsides and retaining walls for visible cracks or movement and photograph property damage for insurance purposes.

Burn Scar and Flood Safety

Burn scar areas are particularly vulnerable to sudden flooding and debris flows, which can carry mud, rocks, trees and other material at high speeds. Residents should have evacuation plans ready and move to safety immediately if they notice rapidly increasing runoff, moving debris or unusual rumbling sounds.

If flash flooding threatens, move to higher ground, stay away from creeks, washes, flood channels and low-lying areas, and never attempt to cross flooded roads.