Altadena preps for the potential of heavy rain and mudslides, as other concerns persist

Heavy rain is possible for much of the L.A. region starting Sunday afternoon and lasting until Monday, bringing threats of mudslides to recent burn areas, particularly around the Eaton Fire.

The forecasted rains are much needed after what is so far the driest winter on record.

But combining water with dirt and debris makes burn scars vulnerable to landslides. After the Bobcat Fire tore through the San Gabriels in 2020, huge swaths of treeless hillside were swept away during winter storms.

If the forecast holds, Altadena could experience something similar.

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On Sunday morning, Altadena residents were taking advantage of free sandbags available to prepare for the rain.

A man grabs burlap bags at Fire Station 12's sand distribution site in Altadena

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“We have pre-deployed strike teams and search and rescue task forces in the area to deal with any excessive rain or mud and debris flow,” Fire Captain Joshua Swaney said.

Residents can find sandbag distribution sites at Altadena’s three county fire stations and at Loma Alta Park.

Firefighters have also set up barriers of K-rails along vulnerable sections of the foothills to help reduce the chance of mudflows. They hope this will protect homes and infrastructure in the event of heavy rainfall.

Bikes parked outside of a burned out building near Altadena’s Fire Station 11.

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Evan Jacoby

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Other concerns

Meanwhile, much of Altadena remains a grizzly scene. Lonely chimney stacks poke out through former gardens, and burned trees are some of the only indications of property lines. Many streetlights remain without power and have been replaced with mid-road stop signs.

California’s National Guard has armored Humvees stationed at several major intersections. Two guard members who did not provide their first names said they are on standby to help the fire department if flood damage gets out of hand, but that’s currently not their main concern.

“We're mainly here to deter looters from coming around the area,” said California National Guard Specialist Galvez.

Another guard member, Sergeant Press, said they had already interrupted would-be thieves.

“One of the tow truck drivers said a couple of guys tried to loot some of his stuff, but luckily we were able to scare them off,” Press said.

Homes are at risk because some evacuations are still in place — and many areas are still unsafe to return to.

A “We Love Altadena, Not For Sale” sign pinned to a fence of a parking lot with several burnt cars.

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Evan Jacoby

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LAist

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