Los Angeles Braces for Intense Storm, Flood Warnings Issued

Heavy rain, high winds, and potential mudslides prompt evacuation alerts across the city

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Los Angeles is preparing for a multi-day storm system that is expected to bring heavy rain, gusty winds, and the threat of mudslides and flooding beginning Tuesday evening. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch and evacuation warnings for neighborhoods within the Palisades, Sunset, and Hurst burn scar zones. Emergency crews have been pre-positioned, and the city is coordinating response efforts across multiple agencies.

Why it matters

Los Angeles has faced a series of extreme weather events in recent years, including wildfires and subsequent mudslides. This latest storm system highlights the city's ongoing efforts to improve preparedness and mitigate the risks posed by these recurring natural disasters.

The details

The storm is forecast to bring heavy rain starting around 6 p.m. Tuesday, lasting until approximately 3 a.m. Wednesday. Lighter to moderate rain is expected to continue through Friday. Officials have warned of possible isolated damaging winds and debris flows, particularly in areas affected by recent wildfires. Approximately 13,000 feet of K-rail barriers have been installed in Pacific Palisades to help mitigate flood and mudflow risks.

  • The storm is expected to bring heavy rain starting around 6 p.m. Tuesday, lasting until approximately 3 a.m. Wednesday.
  • A citywide flood watch is in effect from 6 p.m. Tuesday through 6 a.m. Wednesday.
  • A wind advisory covering the same timeframe as the flood watch is also in effect.
  • A high surf advisory for coastal communities is in effect through 10 p.m. Friday.
  • A gale warning for inner coastal waters will be in effect from 8 p.m. Tuesday to 9 a.m. Wednesday.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

Los Angeles Emergency Operations Center

The city's command center that coordinates emergency response efforts across multiple agencies.

Los Angeles Fire Department

The city's fire department, which has pre-positioned specialized crews for swift-water rescues and mudslide response.

Los Angeles Police Department

The city's police department, which is prepared to assist with potential evacuation orders.

Los Angeles Department of Water and Power

The city's utility provider, which is prepared for potential power outages.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The city's Emergency Operations Center is scheduled to activate overnight, and the Mayor's Office is coordinating with various agencies to respond to the storm. Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency notifications and report non-urgent storm damage through the city's 311 system.

The takeaway

Los Angeles' efforts to improve preparedness and mitigate the risks posed by extreme weather events, including the installation of flood control measures and the pre-positioning of emergency crews, demonstrate the city's commitment to protecting its residents in the face of recurring natural disasters.