PACIFIC PALISADES, CA — Parts of Los Angeles, including the Palisades, are under a flood watch Wednesday as a powerful storm moves into Southern California, bringing the threat of heavy rain, thunderstorms, mudslides and dangerous road conditions.
The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for the Santa Monica Mountains and adjacent coastal areas through Thursday afternoon. The watch covers mountain and hillside areas west of the 405 Freeway, including Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Bel Air and portions of the San Fernando Valley.
Hillside neighborhoods in Encino, Tarzana and Woodland Hills, along with the Sepulveda Pass and surrounding canyon roads, could be vulnerable to flooding, mudslides and debris flows as the storm moves through the region.
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
The storm is expected to bring about 1.5 inches of rain to much of Los Angeles County, with 2 to 3 inches possible in the mountains and areas hit by thunderstorms, according to the National Weather Service.
Thunderstorms could produce rainfall rates approaching 1 inch per hour, increasing the risk of flash 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.
Drivers traveling through the Sepulveda Pass and hillside neighborhoods should be alert for rocks, mud, standing water and debris on canyon roads. Power outages and traffic signal failures are also possible.
Under California law, drivers must come to a complete stop at malfunctioning traffic signals. Motorists should never 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 Los Angeles-area beaches, including those in Pacific Palisades.
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.
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.
Residents in flood-prone areas are encouraged to take precautions before the heaviest rain arrives, particularly those living below steep hillsides or near recent wildfire burn scars.
The Los Angeles Emergency Management Department provides rain and flooding preparedness information, including resources to help residents prepare their homes and families for storms.
Residents should clear leaves and debris from gutters and drainage areas where it is safe to do so, secure outdoor belongings and take steps to prevent water from entering their homes.
Those living near recent burn areas should pay particular attention to the threat of debris flows, which can carry mud, rocks and other material downhill during periods of intense rainfall.
Residents should also 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 city of Los Angeles emergency notifications, Los Angeles County emergency notifications and check Caltrans QuickMap for current road conditions and closures.
Officials also recommend 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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