What you need to know.
What the County Is Doing to Prepare?
Credit: LA County Public Works
LA County works year-round to prepare our infrastructure for winter storms, and a coordinated, countywide effort is already underway to keep residents safe this winter
A robust flood protection system. LA County maintains one of the nation’s most comprehensive flood control systems, including dams, reservoirs, debris basins, spreading basins, channels, storm drains and pump stations that work together to reduce flood risks and protect lives, property and critical infrastructure. LA County Public Works crews prepare for storm season months in advance by inspecting dams and channels, removing debris and sediment from reservoirs, maintaining storm drains and pump stations and ensuring flood control facilities are ready before winter storms arrive.
Protecting our most vulnerable residents. Severe weather doesn’t affect everyone equally. The County is taking targeted steps to safeguard those at greatest risk:
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Unhoused neighbors. People experiencing homelessness are particularly vulnerable during severe rain, flooding, high winds, cold temperatures and other extreme weather. Homeless Services and Housing outreach teams are connecting unhoused neighbors to safe, warm shelter ahead of winter storms. Know someone who needs help? Call 2-1-1.
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Older adults. In partnership with LA County’s Aging & Disabilities department, the County is working to ensure older adults, who may face heightened risk during extreme weather, have the resources and support they need to prepare and stay safe.
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A ready response. County teams are coordinating resources across departments and partners so they can respond quickly when conditions deteriorate.
Tip of the week.
Prepare your property
 Taking a few simple steps before storms arrive can help protect your home or property. Clear gutters, downspouts and nearby storm drains of leaves and debris. Inspect your roof for leaks and take steps to reduce potential water damage before storms arrive. You can also use the Public Works Sandbags Dashboard to find nearby sandbag distribution locations.
If you live near a hillside, canyon or recent burn area, it’s especially important to prepare for mud and debris flows, as these areas carry a higher risk during heavy storms. Before storms arrive, place sandbags at vulnerable entry points, board up windows and direct potential flows away from structures rather than attempting to dam them. Residents can also monitor mudflow and debris flow forecasts through Los Angeles County Public Works.
For property-specific preparedness steps, residents can call (800) 933-0930 to speak to a Public Works engineer.
Key resources.
Sandbag Locator
 For a list of sandbag distribution sites, visit Public Works' Sandbag Dashboard.
Please call the fire station/location listed for availability of sand and sandbags. Please be aware: due to demand, sand & bags may be temporarily out of stock. The Los Angeles County Fire Department, Beaches & Harbors, and Department of Public Works are working in a coordinated effort throughout storm season to ensure supplies remain available. Lastly, please do not take sand from the beach to fill them.
In the News.
 LA County is urging residents to be prepared and sign up for emergency alerts. Click here to watch the full news story.
LA County in Action
Credit: Mayra Beltran Vasquez / LA County
When storms hit, stay alert. Steer clear of hazards such as downed power lines and flooded areas, and never drive or walk through flooded roadways.
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