SUNDAY 2 P.M. UPDATE
By Jonathan Friedman/Assistant Editor
There have been reports of some minor rockslides and mudslides in the Malibu area due to last night’s rainstorm, but no major damage has occurred. A stretch of one westbound lane of Pacific Coast Highway off Big Rock is closed while a crew cleans up the fallen mud. California Department of Transportation spokesperson Judy Gish said the lane should reopen by 5:30 p.m.
Caltrans yesterday closed one westbound lane of the highway between LaHerran and Looschien road to do emergency slope repair. The closure is expected to last approximately 30 days.
To report lane closures or damage, call The Malibu Times at 310.456.5507 ext. 105. If you reach voicemail, leave a message with the information.
More rain is expected later this afternoon and tonight. Periodic rain is expected to last until about 10 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.
A flash flood watch is in effect until this evening, and residents are urged to prepare for possible flooding as well as mud and debris flow. There is a special concern for areas affected by last year’s fires.
The best method for property protection is the placement of sandbags around the home. Free sandbags are available at the local fire stations. The maximum allowed per household is 25. The station locations are:
Fire Station No. 70 – 3970 Carbon Canyon Road, 310.317.1802
Fire Station No. 71 – 28722 Pacific Coast Highway, 310.457.2578
Fire Station No. 88 – 23720 Malibu Road, 310.456.2812
Fire Station No. 99 – 32550 Pacific Coast Highway, 310.457.3706
A guide on how to properly place the sandbags and other information on property protection can be found on Los Angeles County’s Web site at http://dpw.lacounty.gov/wmd/HomeOwners/.