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Severe Weather Hits Southern California: Mudslides Force Road Closures

Severe Weather in Southern California: Road Closures and Safety Alerts
Southern California is currently experiencing severe weather, including heavy rain that has triggered mudflows, debris flows, and road closures. Authorities, including Caltrans and local agencies, have taken precautionary measures to ensure public safety.

Road Closures

Several key routes have been closed due to mud and debris flows:

  • Pacific Coast Highway (PCH):

    • Closed west of Topanga Canyon Boulevard due to mudflows.
    • Southbound PCH is closed at Sweetwater Canyon Drive.
    • Northbound PCH is closed at McClure Tunnel.
  • Topanga Canyon Boulevard:

    • Closed in both directions between PCH and Grand View Drive.
    • Exception: Residents south of Mulholland Drive to Grand View Drive may access the area with proper identification.
  • Interstate 10 (I-10):

    • Westbound I-10 is closed at Lincoln Boulevard.
    • Westbound I-10 on-ramps at 4th and 5th streets are also closed.

Open Routes
Despite the closures, some alternative routes remain available for travel:

  • Interstate 5 (I-5):
    • Open in both directions between State Route 126 and Grapevine Road in Kern County.
    • Off-ramps at Lake Hughes Road and Parker Road (northbound) are open.
    • Rest areas at Tejon Pass (northbound and southbound) remain accessible.

Incident in Woodland Hills
Heavy rain caused debris flows in Woodland Hills, stranding four vehicles on Alhama Drive.

  • Crews from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded to the scene.
  • No rescues, injuries, or structural damage were reported.
  • The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) assisted with vehicle removal and traffic control.

Burn Scar Concerns
Burn scars from the Palisades Fire have increased the risk of mudslides and debris flows in vulnerable areas, leading to significant road closures.

Important Safety Notes

  • Officials urge residents to avoid affected areas and use alternative routes.
  • Road closures may change without prior notice due to evolving weather conditions.
  • Residents are encouraged to stay informed by:
    • Signing up for emergency alerts.
    • Checking Caltrans updates for the latest road conditions.

If you are traveling in Southern California, exercise caution, especially in areas near burn scars or prone to flooding.

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