The National Weather Service issued multiple advisories as the storm system moved through the region, including a High Surf Advisory through Feb. 20 at 10 p.m., a Flood Watch and a Wind Advisory. Approximately 1.25 inches of rain fell in some areas, with more forecast in the coming days. Another storm system is expected to move in overnight into Wednesday morning, with yet another round of rain possible Thursday. NOAA predicts 2 to 4 inches of additional rainfall for the Santa Monica Mountains this week.
Monday’s storms brought significant mud and debris flows to State Route 27, also known as Topanga Canyon Boulevard, particularly within areas already weakened by the Palisades Fire burn scar. At least eight locations along the 3.6-mile stretch between Pacific Coast Highway and Grand View Drive were blocked by debris. The roadway remains closed as crews continue clearing operations and assessing slope stability.
The burn scar area remains under an Evacuation Warning due to the risk of mud and debris flows. The warning applies to Evacuation Zone MAL-C111, from Topanga Beach Drive west to Carbon Beach Terrace. Residents in and near the burn area are urged to remain prepared for possible evacuations, gather essential supplies and make arrangements for pets and family members who may need extra time to relocate.
Along Pacific Coast Highway, damage included a collapsed wall north of Porto Marina Way, reducing northbound traffic to one lane. Mud and debris also forced lane reductions just south of Topanga Canyon Boulevard. Motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during storm conditions and to check current traffic updates via Caltrans’ Quickmap before heading out.
Authorities stress that drivers should never attempt to cross flooded roadways. Standing water can be deeper than it appears and may conceal structural damage. Under California law, motorists must treat malfunctioning traffic signals as four-way stops. Officials also urge drivers to watch for crews and heavy equipment working along roadways.
In the Santa Monica Mountains, trail conditions have deteriorated significantly. Local land managers are asking hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians to stay off dirt trails after rainfall to prevent long-term damage. A general rule of thumb: for every inch of rain, stay off the trails for at least one day. Fire roads tend to dry faster than narrow hiking paths, and those seeking outdoor activity are encouraged to choose pavement or gravel routes until conditions improve.
“We work hard so you can enjoy the trails safely,” officials shared. “Let’s all do our part so all our trails can stay the kind of trail everyone — young, old, and in between — can enjoy safely. Respect the work. Respect the trail.”
Despite the warnings, first responders were called into action Sunday morning when an 18-year-old woman suffered an ankle injury on the Escondido Falls Trail. A coordinated rescue effort by Malibu Search and Rescue, the Los Angeles County Fire Department, and the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority led to her safe evacuation.
Malibu Search and Rescue, a community volunteer unit operating under the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, frequently responds to emergencies throughout the mountain range. Officials remind outdoor enthusiasts to wear proper footwear, carry water and monitor weather and trail conditions before setting out.
Storm impacts extended beyond roads and trails. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued a safety advisory warning residents to avoid swimming, surfing or playing in the ocean for at least 72 hours after rainfall. Runoff from streets, mountains, and storm drains carries bacteria, chemicals, and debris into the water, creating elevated contamination levels.
Heavy surf, strong rip currents, and beach erosion have also created dangerous coastal conditions. While beaches remain open, the public is urged to stay out of the water, off rocks and jetties, and keep a safe distance from the water’s edge. Significant debris from coastal bluffs and recent fire zones may wash ashore.
Residents in flood-prone areas can obtain sandbags at local fire stations and the Malibu Library. Authorities encourage neighbors to check on elderly or vulnerable residents and to prepare for potential power outages. With wind advisories in effect, downed trees and power lines are a concern. Officials emphasize: never approach or touch a downed power line — assume it is live and call 911 immediately.
The storm system also disrupted regional air travel. Los Angeles International Airport implemented a temporary ground stop for departing flights as heavy rain and possible thunderstorms reduced visibility. Travelers are advised to check directly with airlines for updates.
Sheriff’s Sgt. Chris Soderlund said the weekend along Pacific Coast Highway was busy but largely uneventful in terms of serious injuries.
“We had a busy PCH weekend with flooding and a couple of accidents,” Soderlund said. “Fortunately, nobody was seriously hurt.”
The most significant incident occurred around 2 a.m. in the 22600 block of Pacific Coast Highway, where a vehicle struck and sheared off a fire hydrant. While the collision did not appear to involve impairment or excessive speed, the damaged hydrant created a more complicated situation.
When City of Malibu Public Works crews arrived to shut off the water, they discovered that recent paving work had covered access to the water valves in the street, preventing an immediate shutoff. Crews were forced to bring in heavy equipment to break through the roadway and access the valve.
Water flowed for approximately two hours, temporarily shutting down both northbound and southbound lanes of PCH. The highway was reopened just before the morning commute, around 5 a.m.
Aside from that incident, Soderlund said the storm impacts over the weekend were relatively minor.
“There was some minor flooding, minor rock slides and mudslides, but nothing extraordinary,” he said. However, with additional rain forecast throughout the week, he urged residents to remain cautious.
“People need to slow down when it’s raining. They need their windshield wipers on. They need to have their headlights on,” Soderlund said. “Just drive safe, keep your lights on, and drive slow.”
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department will also conduct a DUI and driver’s license checkpoint on Friday.
As crews continue clearing debris and stabilizing slopes, officials caution that the recovery process will take time — particularly in fire-impacted zones where vegetation loss leaves hillsides vulnerable. With additional storms forecast this week, the region remains on alert.
For now, the message from local agencies is clear: avoid unnecessary travel, respect closures, stay off saturated trails andprioritize safety. As Malibu navigates another round of winter weather, community cooperation will be critical to protecting roads, trails, and neighborhoods already tested by fire and storm.
