As Tropical Storm Hilary approached Southern California, residents in the Southland were urged to stay indoors to ensure their safety. This marked the first time in history that Southern California was under a tropical storm watch. In response, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a State of Emergency, and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass activated the city’s Emergency Operations Center at Level 2, just one level below the most critical status.
Mayor Bass emphasized the importance of staying at home, noting that the timing of the storm could change rapidly. The fast-moving storm threatened heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potentially dangerous flooding, especially in the mountains and the Antelope Valley. It was expected to make landfall near San Diego in the early afternoon.
The National Weather Service warned of potentially historic amounts of rainfall, which could result in life-threatening flooding and other dangerous conditions. Consequently, residents were strongly advised to avoid driving, hiking, or going to the beach during the storm.
Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley, the city’s incident commander for the storm, provided forecasts for the Los Angeles area. She predicted 1.5 to 3 inches of rain and winds of 20 to 30 mph. However, the Antelope Valley and San Gabriel Mountain areas were projected to receive the most severe impact, with 3 to 7 inches of rain and stronger winds.
Flash flooding, coastal flooding, and dangerous rip tides were also expected to pose significant risks. To assist residents in protecting their properties, Crowley mentioned that free sandbags were available at neighborhood fire stations.
The storm was expected to persist in the Southland until Monday morning, with the possibility of scattered thunderstorms on Tuesday. As a result, the Los Angeles Unified School District awaited an announcement regarding the cancellation of classes for Monday.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna announced the establishment of a County Emergency Operation Center to manage department resources. The department collaborated with homeless outreach partners to ensure the unhoused population was informed of the storm’s dangers and offered temporary housing resources.
Luna also stated that patrol units would actively encourage individuals living in flood-prone areas to seek safer conditions. State and local officials assured residents that extra resources were in place, and utilities were fully staffed to address any power outages or emergencies.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) confirmed its coordination with California officials to offer support when needed. FEMA pre-positioned supplies at March Air Reserve Base and deployed an Incident Management Assistance Team to the California Office of Emergency Services. Additionally, California’s National Guard strategically positioned resources throughout Southern California in preparation for the storm.
Furthermore, the California Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid System deployed over 700 local government firefighters and support staff, along with specialized rescue teams. The Orange County Emergency Operations Center was also fully staffed, and necessary resources were identified and ready for mobilization.
Various measures were implemented to ensure public safety during the storm. Los Angeles opened emergency shelters for the homeless and provided storm provisions to those unable to relocate. Pasadena established an emergency shelter at the Villa Parke Community Center.
The Department of Water and Power had restoration crews prepared for power outages and water main breakages. Residents could contact DWP in such instances. Streets L.A., L.A. Sanitation, and the Department of Transportation took steps to maintain operational roads. Animal shelters and specialized rescue teams were also ready to respond to evacuations or incidents related to the storm.
All Los Angeles County parks, buildings, and facilities were closed on Sunday and Monday. Coastal areas faced the additional challenge of high surf, which could cause flooding in beach communities. As a result, beach cities reinforced their coastlines with berms and provided sandbags to residents.
Catalina Island residents were advised to evacuate, and Long Beach announced the opening of a temporary shelter to support displaced individuals. Huntington Beach urged residents to secure outdoor items and prepare for potential power outages. Orange County Fire Authority stations distributed sandbags, and travelers were advised to check for flight delays or cancellations at local airports.
Residents were encouraged to review hurricane safety tips and resources provided by NOAA. The tropical storm watch covered Los Angeles County, Orange County, and the Santa Ana Mountains and foothills. The last time a tropical storm made landfall in California was in 1939.
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