With the National Weather Service forecasting up to 4 inches of rain in parts of Los Angeles County starting Friday, Supervisor Kathryn Barger encourages residents in hillside communities and fire-impacted areas to take precautions now.

Additionally, the Department of Public Works has activated 24-hour operations to accelerate sediment removal from the Maddock debris basin in Duarte to provide greater protection to downstream residents — particularly on Sunnydale Dr, Westvalero Rd. and Susan Brook Pl.
Potential evacuations would be based on the progress crews make in sediment removal efforts.

Sandbags are available at Los Angeles County Fire Stations and various locations countywide. Visit dpw.lacounty.gov/dsg/sandbags to find a designated site. In addition to sediment removal operations, Public Works officials will patrol roads to ensure that natural watercourses, roads, and bridges are capable of withstanding the rain runoff. During the storms, catch basins that have screens will be monitored and cleaned should they become clogged. The Department’s Emergency Operations Center will be open and staffed as necessary through the storm period and all Public Works operational staff are on call to respond to any incidents.

A 24-hour toll-free hotline, (800) 675-HELP (4357), provides homeowners with recommendations on how to prevent damage utilizing sandbags, k-rails, and deflection walls to protect individual properties.

Supervisor Barger encourages residents to take the following precautions:

· Listen to local radio and TV reports for heavy rainfall areas.
· Be aware of intense and extensive rainfall.

· If you live near a stream or channel, be alert for sudden increases or decreases in water levels and change from clear to muddy waters, which may indicate debris flow upstream.

· If you live in an area that is susceptible to flooding, consider leaving if it is safe to do so.

· Be aware of your surroundings.

· Listen for unusual sounds, such as breaking trees. Watch for signs of debris.

· If you are driving, watch the road for collapsed pavement, mud, fallen rocks, and other indications of debris flow.