Now that the fires are out, our entire focus is on recovery and rebuilding. I know this has been an incredibly difficult time, and I share your frustrations. We are making progress, and I want to make sure you have the latest updates on the work being done in preparation of the rains and the resources available to you.
This special newsletter includes critical information about the debris removal process, storm preparation, and city services that are working around the clock to protect our community. Please take a moment to review the updates, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
The burn areas in the Palisades remain extremely dangerous—especially during rainstorms. Unstable hillsides, debris flow, and flash flooding can occur without warning, putting lives at risk. Due to the high risk of mud and debris flows from the incoming storm, PCH will be FULLY CLOSED between Chautauqua Blvd in Los Angeles & Carbon Beach Terrace in Malibu starting today, Feb. 4 at 3 PM.
If you can avoid coming into the Palisades during the storm, I encourage you to stay safe and avoid the area altogether.
TRACI PARK
Councilwoman, 11th District
Protecting Homes & Businesses
Storm Preparation – Protecting Homes & Businesses
💧 Heavy Rain Expected Week of February 3
With burn scars in the Palisades, our hillsides are at high risk for flooding and mudslides. Crews have been working nonstop to clear streets, install K-rails, and protect homes and businesses.
🏠 Free Sandbags Available
📍 Penmar Recreation Center – 1341 Lake St., Venice (📞 310-396-8735)
📍 Stoner Recreation Center – 1835 Stoner Ave., Los Angeles (📞 310-479-7200)
For more locations, check here: emergency.lacity.gov/rain-impacts-and-preparation
Residents living near burn areas can receive free debris flow mitigation advice from Los Angeles County Public Works engineers.
Call 800-675-HELP (4357) to schedule an appointment
City Departments In Action
The entire City family – hundreds of dedicated public servants across multiple departments – has been working around the clock, 24/7, in preparation of the storm and to ensure your community is safe. Public Works crews have cleared streets of dangerous debris and mudflows from the previous rain. LADWP teams have been repairing power and water lines to restore critical services. Sanitation and StreetsLA crews have been out in force, working in tough conditions to prevent further damage. City engineers and first responders continue to assess the area, making sure it’s safe for residents.
To date, 100% of the burn areas have been assessed. Following our inspections city engineering teams recommended locations where K-rail has been installed at the bottom of slopes to limit debris movement and all have been put into place. City crews also looked for areas in need of watershed protection measures, such as sandbags, that help to divert contaminated runoff from entering catch basins (and ending up in the ocean). The Bureau of Engineering’s structural group inspected all bridges in the areas and determined that none of the six were damaged by the fire. Here’s a summary of their storm preparation work to mitigate storm impacts.
✅ Installed 7,000+ feet of K-rail to prevent debris flow
✅ 1,500+ feet of sandbags placed to divert water away from key areas
✅ Cleared over 3 miles of debris along Palisades Drive
✅ Ongoing debris removal and road safety improvements
✅ 18 debris basins in the Palisades being cleared continuously
✅ Clearing catch basins to prevent flooding
✅ Supervising stormwater protection efforts
You can report flooding or blocked drains: 📞 1-800-773-2489 (24/7 hotline)
Debris Removal – What You Need to Know
✅ Phase 1 – Hazardous Materials Removal (EPA)
Began Monday, February 3
Focuses on removing toxic and hazardous materials
Questions? Call EPA Hotline: 1-833-798-7372
✅ Phase 2 – Full Debris Removal (USACE)
Conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) at no cost to property owners
To participate, property owners must Opt In by signing the Right of Entry (ROE) form
Opting Out is final – you will be responsible for 100% of debris removal costs
Questions? Call LA County Fire Debris Hotline: 844-347-3332
💡 Make an Informed Decision: Opting in means free cleanup while opting out means you pay out-of-pocket for all debris removal.
The US Army Corps of Engineers has provided a useful Debris Removal Q&A for issues related related to both phases of hazardous materials and debris removal.
We’re in This Together!
Recovery takes time, but I promise you – we will rebuild, and we will come back stronger. My team and I are here to support you every step of the way.
Keep these numbers available if you need them:
📞 LA County Fire Debris Hotline: 844-347-3332
📞 EPA Hazardous Removal Hotline: 1-833-798-7372
📞 City Services: 311
Stay safe, stay informed, and stay prepared!
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