With a 100 percent chance of rain for Malibu tonight, the National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for all the burn areas, which means there is a possibility of mud and debris flows. The Watch is also in effect for the rest of the burn areas in Los Angeles County and some nearby counties.
Periods of rain are expected to begin locally after 10 p.m. and continue through tomorrow until about 10 a.m., according to the National Weather Service.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department wrote on its Web site, “It is a known fact that mud and debris flows are among the most hazardous situations because they combine some the most dangerous characteristics of flash flooding and mud slides.” The department’s Web site lists the following tips for what to do prior to and during a storm:
Before the Storm
-Look for potential storm-water drainage or ground assessment near your home or business.
-Develop your own emergency escape plan for your home or business.
-Obtain sandbags from local fire stations to provide for water or mud diversion. (The Malibu Fire Stations are located at 3970 Carbon Canyon Road, 28722 Pacific Coast Highway, 23720 Malibu Road and 32550 Pacific Coast Highway)
-Clear trash and debris from drainage areas to avoid clogging.
Durring the storm
-Listen to local radio and TV reports for heavy rainfall areas.
-Be aware of intense burst and extensive rainfall.
-If you live near a stream or channel be alert for sudden increases or decreases of water levels and change from clear to muddy waters may be an indicator of debris flow upstream.
-If you live in an area that is susceptible to flooding or debris flow, consider leaving if it is safe to do so.
-Be aware of your surroundings, listen for unusual sounds , such as breaking trees or signs of debris.
-If you are driving, watch the road for collapsed pavement, mud, fallen rocks, and other indications of debris flow.