Alice Wong's Death Marks a Deep Loss for Disability Activism

Southern California Faces Major Storm: Preparing for Floods and Mudslides

Update Storm Comes to Life in Southern California On the weekend of November 15, 2025, Southern California faced one of the fiercest storms of the season, driven by a powerful atmospheric river that unleashed between two to six inches of rain in various regions. Reports indicated that floodwaters surged through highways, and mudslides threatened communities still healing from the devastating wildfires earlier that year. Cities like Altadena and Pacific Palisades were particularly vigilant, as officials prepared for the storm's impact on burn-scarred landscapes. Preparedness Efforts Pay Off Despite the challenging conditions, significant preparations made in advance of the storm mitigated potentially disastrous outcomes. Last-minute sandbagging and other precautionary measures by residents and local authorities were crucial. Meteorologists, including Ariel Cohen from the National Weather Service, highlighted that while the storm brought distress, it was heartening to observe community efforts that lessened the risks. Many roads saw minor flooding and rockslides, but thankfully, reports of major damage were minimal. Community Responds The human element of this weather event cannot be understated. Local residents like David Chinniah continued their routines while remaining cautious. Reports indicate that those in Altadena and surrounding fire-affected areas were particularly concerned; they faced evacuation warnings as authorities assessed the risks of mudflows and debris. Sharon Gray, owner of Eaton Dam Stables, was forthcoming about the tough lessons learned during previous storms, stating, “We’re just doing what we can.” This sentiment resonated with many, showcasing a community spirit fostering resilience. Future Storm Concerns The weather forecast hinted at further storms lined up for the region, with predictions of more rainfall and potential thunderstorms early the following week. As notable as the heavy rains were, it underscored California's volatile weather patterns – a mix of desperate drought conditions punctuated by sudden precipitation. Approximately eight inches were projected for mountainous areas, raising the stakes for more mudslides and heavy flooding. Tragedy Amidst the Storm Not all stories connected to the storm were optimistic. Tragically, reports indicated that a five-year-old girl had gone missing and her father lost his life after rough waves swept them off the coast near Big Sur. Such incidents serve as stark reminders of nature's unpredictability. As dug-in rescue efforts launched, communities banded together, reinforcing their commitment to support those affected by the storm's chaos. The Bigger Picture While this atmospheric river storm has caused immediate repercussions, it poses larger questions about climate change and our preparedness for similar future weather patterns. Experts urge community members to stay informed about their local environment, especially in areas prone to wildfire damage. It remains essential to heed warnings and to prioritize safety, especially as climatic shifts foster ever-changing conditions. Take Action: Stay Prepared As Southern California braces for what’s next, it’s crucial for residents to prepare for storm impacts proactively. Keep emergency supplies on hand, stay tuned to local news for forecasts, and heed instructions from authorities regarding evacuation and safety measures. Community vigilance has proven effective, and by staying prepared, we can collectively weather the storms ahead.