SANTA MONICA—On December 25, the National Weather Service issued its highest level of alert for the storms impacting Los Angeles. Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency to be in effect for Los Angeles and five other counties in California.
The five other counties are Orange County, San Diego County, Riverside County, Shasta County, and San Bernardino County.
Due to the weather, hundreds of families have left their homes, and the storms have resulted in widespread mudslides, flash flooding, and rockslides. Thousands of people are without power due to 50-mph winds that have knocked down power lines. In addition, immediate evacuation orders were issued for 380 homes in high-risk burn areas, including those impacted by the Eaton Fire and the Palisades Forest Fire. Santa Monica, as well as the Pacific Palisades and Malibu, remain under a state of high alert.
Governor Newsom’s emergency declaration allows the California state government to rapidly deploy state resources to the local governments in accordance with the California Disaster Assistance Act. It also allows for the deployment of the California National Guard. It authorizes the California Department of Transportation to request assistance from the federal government to repair damaged roads and highways.
On Wednesday, December 24, Hilda Solis, the Board Chair of the Los Angeles Board of Supervisors, issued an emergency proclamation to protect residents of Los Angeles, speed recovery efforts, and coordinate resources.
Citizens of California are advised to stay informed about weather conditions. They are also advised to listen to emergency officials and avoid any flooded roadways.
By Daniel Diquinzio