Overnight Storm Causes Widespread Damage Across LA

Fallen trees, knocked-down stoplights, and other debris leave residents dealing with the aftermath.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A powerful overnight storm brought heavy rain and strong winds to the Los Angeles area, resulting in numerous reports of fallen trees, debris, and even a knocked-down traffic light. Drivers faced hazardous conditions during the morning commute as crews worked to clear the damage.

Why it matters

Severe weather events can have significant impacts on local infrastructure and transportation, disrupting daily life for residents. This storm highlights the need for LA to be prepared for extreme weather and have efficient emergency response procedures in place.

The details

The storm knocked down a traffic light at the intersection of The Old Road and Henry Mayo Drive, leaving it blinking. In West LA, a fallen tree was reported hanging over the 405 Freeway, prompting a highway closure as crews worked to remove it. In Arlington Heights, a large Brazilian pepper tree fell onto a car, blocking the street. And in Koreatown, a man on a scooter crashed into a tree that had fallen onto the road.

  • The storm occurred overnight on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

James Melchor

A homeowner in Arlington Heights whose family had the fallen Brazilian pepper tree for generations.

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What they’re saying

“It's devastating because, you know, that's like my childhood. I grew up with this tree, it's been in my family for generations. It's like, one of the biggest Brazilian pepper trees in Los Angeles.”

— James Melchor, Homeowner (nbclosangeles.com)

What’s next

Crews will continue to work throughout the day to clear debris and restore power and transportation in the affected areas.

The takeaway

This storm serves as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and infrastructure resilience in the face of extreme weather events, which are expected to become more frequent and severe due to climate change.