MALIBU, CA — Malibu is under a flood watch Wednesday as a powerful storm moves into Southern California, bringing the threat of heavy rain, thunderstorms, mudslides and dangerous conditions along the coast.
The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for the Malibu coast and Santa Monica Mountains from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday afternoon. The watch also includes Malibu Bowl, Topanga and Pacific Palisades.
The storm is expected to bring between half an inch and 1.5 inches of rain to Malibu, with 1.5 to 3 inches possible in the surrounding mountains, according to the city of Malibu.
There are Flood Watches in effect for portions of our area from 8 AM Wed- 5PM Thu. First year burn scars are the most vulnerable to flooding/debris flows. However, at least minor flooding is possible anywhere heavy rain occurs. #CAwx https://t.co/3RAP4daSOy
— NWS Los Angeles (@NWSLosAngeles) October 20, 2026
Thunderstorms could produce rainfall rates of 0.5 to 1 inch per hour, increasing the risk of flooding and debris flows. The heaviest rain is expected Wednesday into Thursday morning.
Forecasters said the Santa Monica Mountains and adjacent coastline face some of the greatest flooding risks in Los Angeles County because of the potential for intense rainfall.
The storm could trigger flooding in streets, low-lying areas, creeks and other locations with poor drainage.
Malibu officials urged residents to prepare for mudslides, debris flows, flooding, coastal erosion and hazardous driving conditions.
Motorists should watch for rocks, mud, standing water, work crews and maintenance vehicles on roadways. Power outages and traffic signal failures are also possible.
Under California law, drivers must come to a complete stop at malfunctioning traffic signals. Officials also warned motorists never to drive around barricades or through flowing water.
Residents should stay away from downed power lines and call 911 to report them.
The storm is also expected to bring dangerous conditions to Malibu's beaches.
A beach hazards statement remains in effect through late Thursday night for portions of the Los Angeles County coastline, with elevated surf, dangerous rip currents, possible beach erosion and minor tidal overflow in low-lying areas.
Thunderstorms over coastal waters could also produce lightning, gusty winds, small hail and isolated waterspouts, according to the NWS.
Malibu officials advised residents and visitors to stay off rocks and jetties and watch for storm debris along the shoreline.
Temperatures are expected to remain cool Wednesday and Thursday, with highs generally in the mid-60s to lower 70s across much of Los Angeles County.
Dry weather is expected to return Friday, followed by another round of Santa Ana winds over the weekend. Forecasters said gusts could reach 30 to 50 mph, particularly in mountain areas, although the winds are expected to be weaker than last week's event.
Temperatures could climb back into the upper 70s and 80s over the weekend.
In preparation for flooding and future winter storms, Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath's office will host a free sandbag distribution event Friday from 3 to 5 p.m. at Malibu Equestrian Park, 6225 Merritt Drive.
County agency representatives will be available to answer questions and help residents load sandbags into their vehicles. Distribution is limited to 25 sandbags per household.
The city also identified several locations where residents can obtain sand and sandbags before then:
All Los Angeles County fire stations also have sandbags available. Residents are prohibited from removing sand from beaches.
Residents can find additional storm preparedness information at MalibuCity.org/ElNino.
The city also encouraged residents to monitor emergency alerts and road conditions as the storm moves through the area.
Information about potential debris flow hazards is available through the Los Angeles County Public Works hazard map.
Residents can sign up for Los Angeles County emergency notifications and check Caltrans QuickMap for current road conditions and closures.
Officials advised keeping a battery-powered radio available to receive emergency information if electrical power or cellphone service is disrupted.
City News Service contributed to this report.
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