Home » TRAVEL ALERT » Storm Slams Southern California: Flash Floods, Evacuations, and Mudslides
Published on November 16, 2025
Southern California – Southern California is experiencing very severe weather after a system of large powerful storms moved in on Friday. These storms are are likely to continue on throughout the week. These storms started a series of severe weather events including, heavy rains, flash flood warning alerts, severe weather safety emergencies, road and area closures, and evacuation alerts. Lastly there is a mounting threat of mudslides , especially in recently burned areas.
Officials, in anticipation of the upcoming inclement weather, are warning the public to stay safe and to keep a close eye on current events. Rain is expected to be heavy overnight and on Saturday with a chance of rain on and off after that. As rain continues to fall, there is a leading a chance of mudslides and flash floods in the area.
Advertisement
Evacuations and Mudslide Risks in Burn Scar Areas
In the wake of recent wildfires, many communities in Southern California are under evacuation warnings as the storm brings a serious threat of mudslides. The areas that were once scorched by flames are now vulnerable to debris flows, making it essential for residents in these high-risk zones to evacuate as a precaution.
| Area | Risk Level | Evacuation Status |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Clarita | High risk for mudslides | Evacuation warnings in place |
| Topanga Canyon | Moderate to High | Evacuation orders issued |
| Malibu and surrounding areas | High risk for mudslides | Evacuation orders and warnings |
| Long Beach | Moderate flood risk | No official evacuation orders yet |
| Glendora | Flash flood risk | Evacuation warnings in place |
Officials have specifically targeted areas where burn scars from previous wildfires have left the ground unstable. As heavy rain falls, the likelihood of mudslides increases, which could cause significant property damage and pose a risk to residents’ safety. Local authorities have issued evacuation orders for properties in these vulnerable areas, urging those who live near burn scars to leave immediately.
Flooding and Road Closures Cause Chaos
The storm has also caused widespread flooding across Southern California. One of the most affected areas is the northbound lanes of the 710 Freeway in Long Beach, where flooding resulted in a SigAlert on Saturday afternoon. Two lanes were submerged near Long Beach Boulevard, creating traffic delays throughout the area.
The California Highway Patrol reported flooding in multiple locations, including Naples Lane and Ravenna Drive in the Long Beach neighborhood of Naples, further exacerbating traffic and hindering residents’ ability to navigate the streets.
Advertisement
Officials have stressed that most flood-related fatalities occur when people are in their vehicles during these conditions. As such, residents are being advised to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. If you must be on the roads, take extra precautions by allowing more time for travel due to slippery conditions, low visibility, and localized flooding.
Safety Precautions and Warnings for the Public
As the storm continues, residents are urged to stay indoors as much as possible and avoid outdoor activities, especially near flood-prone areas like rivers, streams, and canyons. The National Weather Service (NWS) has recommended that people stay far from windows if thunderstorms occur, and to immediately seek shelter if lightning strikes, winds shift dramatically, or if rain intensity increases rapidly.
Here are some essential safety tips to follow during the storm:
- Stay indoors: If you hear thunder, see lightning, or notice a sudden increase in rain, take shelter immediately.
- Avoid traveling: Stay off the roads if possible. Flash floods can develop quickly, especially in burn scar areas.
- Stay away from water: Avoid streams, rivers, and canyons. These areas are particularly dangerous during heavy rainfall.
- Monitor your surroundings: Keep an eye on local news channels and weather.gov for updates and warnings.
- Prepare for power outages: Be ready for possible power outages and have emergency supplies, including food, water, and flashlights.
- Listen to local officials: Always follow evacuation orders and warnings from local authorities, especially if you’re in a burn scar zone.
The storm’s unpredictability has kept emergency teams on high alert. Despite the challenges, local officials have emphasized that Southern California is well-prepared for the weather, with measures in place to mitigate risks like flooding and mudslides. Nonetheless, residents are urged to remain vigilant and cautious as conditions continue to change.
Ongoing Weather Threats and Future Outlook
The storm that began on Friday is expected to intensify overnight, bringing heavier rain that could last into Saturday afternoon. Forecasters predict that scattered showers and thunderstorms will persist through the weekend, with the potential for further disruptions across the region. The second phase of the storm, which has already brought rain and flooding to many areas, is likely to cause additional flooding and mudslide risks in the coming days.
While the heavy rain is a welcome relief to the drought-stricken region, the risks posed by flooding and mudslides cannot be overstated. Residents living in high-risk areas, particularly those near recent burn scars, are strongly advised to heed evacuation orders and avoid outdoor activities.
What to Expect as the Storm Continues
| Date | Forecast Summary | Impact on Southern California |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 16, 2025 (Saturday) | Heavy rain continuing, possible thunderstorms | Flooding risks, road closures, and mudslides |
| Nov 17, 2025 (Sunday) | Scattered showers, storm clearing by afternoon | Lingering flooding, slick roads, and wind gusts |
| Nov 18, 2025 (Monday) | Showers tapering off, drier conditions expected | Still muddy and slippery conditions in high-risk areas |
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe During the Storm
The first part is why safety is the main focus, based on the potential deluge and the dangers posed by mudslides, flooding, and burn scars. Those in evacuation orders and Zone A should avoid the deadly Rapid Fire areas. Stay Safe! Weather Storm Alerts: traffic advisories, Stay Indoors when the Storm is at it’s Worst! Advise those in flood prone areas. Prepare! Safe us All!
If you’ve checked the NWS, you’re up to date! Stay Safe! Flash Flood Alerts, Traffic advisories active, streams and rivers on the rise.
The northern part of the NWS issued a Flood Watch. Heavy Rain and Storm to the South. Flash Flood and Heavy Rain Storm on the way to the South, and is the cause of the Flood Watch.
Notice the changes in Wind and Temperature, debris, and listen to the radio, prepare prior.
As Flood Risks and strong storms areas to avoid the areas. Flood Watch is active.
Be Safe and Sane!
Advertisement
Please visit:
Our Sponsor