Flood watch to begin Sunday as rain, and possibly hail, bears down on LA

Concerns about predicted rainfall this weekend following Southern California’s massive wildfires have prompted meteorologists to issue flood watches beginning Sunday.

There is an up to 25% chance of thunderstorms around the region through Monday, National Weather Service meteorologist Kristan Lund said, which also could bring lightning and pea-sized hail.

The rain, which may start on Saturday afternoon or evening, can help alleviate the dry conditions plaguing the region, but the incoming storm system could create other headaches, with slick, burned hills that can’t absorb water after being stripped of vegetation. That could lead to sudden debris flows, mudslides and flooding.

Meteorologists expect on-and-off showers to bring up to an inch in Los Angeles County, and possibly two inches in the mountains, over a few days. Meteorologists say there is a 10-20% chance of flash flooding and debris flow in the recently burned Palisades and Eaton fire areas, as well as other spots.

“The threat is high enough to prepare for the worst-case scenario,” the National Weather Service office in Oxnard said on social media.

The time frame of greatest concern is from 4 p.m. Sunday to 4 p.m. Monday, forecasters said.

Flood watches were issued for that period in the areas of the Palisades and Franklin fires in Pacific Palisades and Malibu, the Eaton fire in Altadena and Pasadena, the Hughes fire near Lake Castaic, and the Bridge fire in the Angeles National Forest north of Glendora.

“They’re the greatest potential for significant debris flows,” Lund said. “They’re the most recent burn scars. They’re close to communities and vulnerable infrastructure.”

As of Saturday afternoon, the Palisades fire was 81% contained, the Eaton fire 95% contained and the Hughes fire 87% contained, Cal Fire said. The Bridge fire was 100% contained in November.

Residents, especially those in recently burned areas, are urged to use sandbags to protect property and to stock up on food and supplies in case road access is limited. Los Angeles County Public Works announced that sandbags would be available to pick up at the following locations:

• Altadena Golf Course, 1456 E Mendocino St., Altadena
• Victory Park, 2575 Paloma St., Pasadena
• Robinson Park, 1081 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena
• Las Flores Creek Park, 3895 Rambla Pacifico St., Malibu

Sandbags are also being distributed at fire stations. The public can use the LAPW website to find one nearby.

Forecasters said  “heavy” snow is expected in the eastern San Gabriels, possibly accumulating up to 14 inches in some areas, though only an inch or less is anticipated along the Grapevine stretch of the 5 Freeway.

City News Service contributed to this report.