Los Angeles, CA – March 13, 2025 – Los Angeles is known for its sunshine, but this week, residents are preparing for a very different kind of weather. A powerful storm system is moving in, bringing torrential rains, potential flooding, and even mudslides to parts of the city. If you live in a flood-prone area or near recent wildfire burn scars, now is the time to take precautions.
What’s Happening?
Meteorologists are closely watching this storm, which is expected to dump several inches of rain across Southern California over the next couple of days. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for Los Angeles and Ventura counties, warning that rainfall rates could reach up to an inch per hour in some areas. This kind of intense rain can quickly overwhelm drainage systems, causing flash flooding on roads and in low-lying neighborhoods.
To make matters worse, areas that experienced wildfires in the past year—like Malibu and the Pacific Palisades—are at high risk for mudslides and debris flows. With the ground already weak and unstable, the sudden influx of water could trigger dangerous conditions. Officials have already issued evacuation warnings for these regions, urging residents to be prepared to leave if conditions worsen.
The Forecast: What to Expect
- Thursday, March 13: Heavy rain will move into the area by the evening, with steady downpours continuing overnight. Expect temperatures around 58°F (14°C) during the day and dropping to 50°F (10°C) overnight. Winds will pick up, reaching speeds of 15-20 mph.
- Friday, March 14: The storm intensifies, with the heaviest rainfall expected in the morning and early afternoon. Some thunderstorms could develop, bringing hail and even the potential for a weak tornado—a rare but possible event in Southern California. The high will reach 60°F (16°C), with strong winds continuing.
- Saturday, March 15: Rain showers will linger but gradually weaken. Cooler air moves in, dropping temperatures to a high of 55°F (13°C) and a low of 48°F (9°C). Roads could remain hazardous with lingering flooding.
How to Stay Safe
- Stay Informed: Check local news and weather updates frequently. Flash flood warnings can be issued with little notice.
- Be Ready to Evacuate: If you live in a mudslide-prone area, pack an emergency bag with essentials—medications, important documents, and a change of clothes—just in case.
- Avoid Driving in Flooded Areas: Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock over an adult, and a foot of water can sweep away a car. If you see flooded streets, turn around—don’t risk it.
- Use Sandbags if Needed: If your home is at risk of flooding, pick up free sandbags from local fire stations to help redirect water away from your property.
Final Thoughts
This storm has the potential to cause significant disruptions, and officials are urging Angelenos to take it seriously. If you’re in an affected area, don’t wait until the last minute—prepare now. Stay safe, stay dry, and look out for your neighbors. Los Angeles, we’ve weathered storms before, and we’ll get through this one together!