As the city and county of Los Angeles remained in the state of a local emergency, Los Angeles officials responded more than 350 car crashes, over 600 tree emergencies as well as thousands of power outages during the holiday storms, the LA mayor’s office said Thursday.
Although the traffic collisions affected travelers along roadways across the region, there were no serious injuries or deaths related to this week’s storms, Mayor Karen Bass’s office noted.
But as the heavy downpours knocked down trees and power poles, crews with the LA Department of Water and Power had to work, even on Christmas Day, to restore electricity at thousands of homes and businesses. According to the mayor’s office, there were still about 4,000 power outages as of 6 p.m. Thursday.
“City crews have received requests for more than 600 tree emergencies citywide, including downed trees and fallen branches,” the mayor’s office said in a statement.
As many neighborhoods remained without electricity, crews from the LA Department of Transportation were dispatched to restore traffic signals. As of Thursday evening, there were two traffic signals experiencing outages in the city.
An evacuation order was in effect for the Riverwood community of Sunland-Tujunga as water was being released from the Tujunga Dam. It’s an intentional release by the LA County Public Works to prevent flooding in the surrounding area as the reservoir could become swelled in the rain.
An evacuation warning was extended in the Pacific Palisades and Malibu area, including the communities affected by the Palisades, Sunset and Hurst wildfires.
A flood watch is also in effect for the city of Los Angeles, meaning flooding is still possible even though the region did not receive heavy rain Thursday.
See the free sources in the Los Angeles area below.
Where to get free sandbags
- Los Angeles County Public Works Fleet Maintenance Yard at 224 Mountain View St., Altadena, CA 91001
- Malibu Library parking lot at 23519 West Civic Center Way, Malibu, CA 90265
- Pasadena Fire Station 37 at 3430 E. Foothill Blvd. between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Pasadena Fire Station 38 at 1150 Linda Vista Ave. between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Fire stations across Los Angeles County. See the addresses and phone numbers here.
Free guides for emergency kits
Officials urge families to prepare their emergency kits before a disaster happens. Here’s a list of what to pack.
- Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days)
- Food (at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food) that does not involve heating or cooking.
- Water and food for all pets.
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Essential medicines
- Extra clothing and shoes, including safety-soled or construction shoes
- Extra batteries
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
- Tools to turn off water and gas lines ONLY if you suspect leaks or damage
- Manual can opener (for food)
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
How to prepare for emergency kits at low or no cost
- Look for deals at garage sales, thrift stores to have camping gear, tools, cookware.
- Add older clothing to disaster kits
Winter shelters available
The city and county of Los Angeles are offering overnight shelters that offer three meals a day and showers. Those who are experiencing homelessness can access the shelters 24 hours a day.
People can call 211 or see here for the list of winter shelters.
People who are staying at the winter shelters are expected to follow COVID-19 and M-pox protocols.
Allison Craig is a passionate sports writer and analyst with a deep love for game strategies, player performances, and the latest trends in the sports world. With years of experience covering football, basketball, tennis, and more, she delivers insightful analysis and engaging content for sports enthusiasts.
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