Southern California is reeling after a powerful October storm unleashed torrential rain, flooding, and mudslide threats across Los Angeles County and neighboring regions. The KTLA 5 News team provided extensive live coverage from the hardest-hit areas, giving viewers an up-close look at the widespread damage and the urgent rescue efforts that followed.
Heavy Rain and Widespread Flooding
The Pacific-driven weather system made landfall late on October 13, dumping several inches of rain in just hours. Some mountain and foothill areas saw up to 5 inches of rainfall, overwhelming local drainage systems and flooding streets across L.A., Ventura, and Orange counties.
KTLA reporters on the ground captured scenes of stranded cars, flooded intersections, and neighborhoods turned into rivers. Commuters faced long delays as freeways like the 101 and 5 experienced lane closures due to standing water and debris.
City officials urged drivers to stay home as emergency crews worked overnight to clear blocked roads and storm drains.
Evacuations and Mudslide Risks
The heaviest rainfall hit areas still recovering from recent wildfires, prompting mandatory evacuation orders for residents near burn-scar zones. Communities around the Eaton Fire and Airport Fire sites were especially vulnerable, as loosened soil and ash created perfect conditions for mudslides.
KTLA correspondents interviewed evacuees who scrambled to leave their homes before nightfall. “We’ve lived here for years, but this rain came faster than anything we’ve seen,” one resident told KTLA.
Authorities deployed sandbags, barriers, and drainage pumps in hillside neighborhoods to prevent further destruction.
Rescues and Emergency Response
Amid the chaos, rescue teams raced to save people trapped by floodwaters. KTLA 5 reported that two individuals and two dogs were rescued from the Los Angeles River after being swept away by the fast-moving current.
First responders also helped clear fallen trees and restore power to thousands of homes left in the dark. Firefighters and police worked throughout the night, while shelters opened to house displaced residents.
Aftermath and Continuing Threats
Although the worst of the storm has passed, officials warn that the danger isn’t over. With soils still saturated, flooding and mudslides remain possible in hillside areas through the week.
KTLA meteorologists cautioned that another weak system could bring additional rain in the coming days, urging residents to stay alert and monitor official warnings.
As one of Southern California’s most trusted local outlets, KTLA 5’s team coverage showcased the storm’s full impact — from dramatic rescues and aerial footage to community resilience in the face of natural disaster.
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