Full Notification

LOS ANGELES (Wed., Nov. 21, 2018) – During storm events, mud and debris flows are a very realistic threat to the communities affected by the Hill and Woolsey fires. Due to an increased probability of mud and debris flow in these fire areas, it is important to plan and prepare. When given, evacuation orders should not be taken lightly. They are ordered because there is a threat to life and property. Be prepared to evacuate early.
 
In addition, roads throughout the burn areas are subject to intermittent closures due to mud, debris and other hazards. Use extreme caution as you drive through these areas. Watch for slippery road conditions and follow posted warnings and speed signs.
 
Federal, State, County and local officials are working collaboratively to identify areas of potential high risk of post-fire flooding. Burn area residents should monitor media reports and National Weather Service’s forecasts to see if there are any changes in the anticipated storm conditions. Los Angeles County Public Works’ maintenance crews will continue to work to keep County roads open and County facilities functioning.
 
Mud and debris flows can have a devastating impact, including loss of life and home. Prepare for lack of water, power and natural gas and roads that may be impassable. Residents are urged to take the following action:
 

• Burn area residents can pick up empty sandbags at their local fire stations.
• Visit lacounty.gov/larain for storm season emergency resources, including LA County’s Homeowners Guide to Flood, Debris and Erosion Control.
• Know how to shut off all utilities. Remember, water and electricity DO NOT MIX.
• Flowing water is an instant danger zone. Stay away from flood control channels, catch basins, canyons and natural waterways, which are susceptible to flooding during periods of heavy rain.
• Do not attempt to cross flooded areas and never enter moving water.
• If you become isolated, seek the highest ground available and wait for help.
• If flooding traps you in your car, stay inside. If the water rises higher, wait on top of your car for assistance. Do not step into moving water around your car.
• If you see someone who has been swept into moving water, do not enter the water and attempt a rescue. Call 911 for emergency rescue personnel and, if possible, throw them a flotation device.
• Be ready to go when told to evacuate.

 
As the area is repopulated, please be aware that there may be intermittent power outages and associated street closures as power is restored throughout the impacted areas. For more information about current power outages, please check online at https://www.sce.com/outagecenter.
 
As natural gas service is restored to areas that have been deemed safe, assessments and necessary repairs are underway. For safety reasons, customers should never attempt to restore natural gas service themselves. If you have questions about the service restoration process or about your natural gas service, please contact SoCalGas at 1-877-238-0092 or online at https://www.socalgas.com/newsroom/fires.
 
As traffic flow is introduced into these areas, people may be more focused on the damage and not aware of their immediate surroundings. Please be mindful of people working in the area as essential services are restored. Stay vigilant as you drive for road crews, firefighters and other personnel completing their assignments. Please stay alert and pay attention.
 
Officials ask that members of the public make an extra effort to conserve water when returning home. Limiting indoor and outdoor water use will help restore the water system that was significantly impacted during fire operations.
 
All people must be mindful of falling debris and rocks, specifically in the Malibu Canyon area. Due to fire suppression activities, rocks may have been dislodged from water drops and topsoil in certain areas may be unstable. This danger may be enhanced during periods of rain. Please be vigilant and stay alert.
 
As aircraft operations continue in the area impacted by the fire, the public is reminded not to fly Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS/drones). Flight operations continue as utilities are restored. Due to the potential for collision, when a drone is detected flying over the area, air operations must be suspended until all drones flying in the area are removed. A temporary flight restriction (TFR) is currently in place in the impacted area until January 15, 2019.
 
Sheriff's Information Bureau
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
Hall of Justice – First floor
211 West Temple Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012   
(213) 229-1700