News Summary
Southern California faced a rare October storm that brought heavy rainfall and high winds, leading to evacuations in areas affected by previous wildfires. Rainfall totals reached up to 5 inches in some locations, causing road closures and disruptions. Emergency services were activated, monitoring for potential mudslides and providing shelters for evacuated residents. The storm’s unusual presence for the month raised concerns regarding the stability of fire-scarred landscapes as the region prepares for a return to dry conditions.
Southern California Faces Rare October Storm with Heavy Rain and Evacuations Amid Flood Threats from Wildfire Scars
Los Angeles, CA – Southern California experienced a rare and powerful October storm that brought heavy rain and high winds from late Monday night through Tuesday afternoon. The National Weather Service described this weather event as “rare and very potent,” resulting in significant rainfall and the issuance of evacuation warnings in areas previously affected by wildfires.
Rainfall totals varied significantly across the region, with some locations receiving up to 5 inches. Bel Air and Beverly Hills recorded about 2 inches, Sepulveda Canyon saw nearly 3.5 inches, and Downtown Los Angeles experienced approximately 1.3 inches. In response to the storm, evacuation orders for areas in Orange County were lifted by Tuesday evening, as no major mud or debris flows were reported.
Emergency Responses and Warnings
The Los Angeles County Fire Department monitored hillside locations such as Altadena for land shifts post-storm due to mudslide risks. A temporary evacuation shelter was set up at Hart House Senior Center in Sierra Madre for residents in hardest-hit areas. Governor updates noted that around 115 homes in Pacific Palisades were evacuated due to potential mudslide dangers.
In terms of infrastructure impact, flooding caused significant road closures and disrupted traffic across the region, including at the interchanges of the 5 and 118 freeways. A mudslide closed two lanes on the southbound 110 Parkway in Highland Park, contributing to multiple accidents, including a notable crash involving a big rig near the 5 freeway. Although a studio on Sherman Way suffered roof damage from heavy rain, there were no injuries reported.
Flood Advisories and Tornado Risks
The National Weather Service issued flood advisories and warnings in light of the excessive rainfall in Los Angeles County. Additionally, tornado risks were identified in the region for the first time since February 2023, placing Los Angeles within a tornado risk zone.
Throughout the storm, city crews mobilized effectively to address emergencies and safeguard residents, particularly in areas vulnerable due to recent wildfires. By late afternoon on Tuesday, the storm was expected to diminish, paving the way for dry conditions and a warming trend for the remainder of the week.
Background Context
This storm marks an unusual occurrence for Southern California in October, typically a month characterized by milder weather as the region transitions from summer heat. The heavy rains were particularly concerning for communities previously impacted by wildfires, as burned landscapes are prone to mudslides and debris flows following intense rainfall.
As Southern California residents begin to recover from the impact of the storm, many are left on alert for any lingering threats arising from the unstable terrain and potential for further weather disturbances. The overall response has been indicative of proactive measures taken by local authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of those living in high-risk areas.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Los Angeles Faces Dramatic Weather Shift After Heat Wave
Additional Resources
- The New York Times
- Wikipedia: California Climate
- FOX 11 Los Angeles
- Google Search: Southern California Storm October 2025
- NBC Los Angeles
- Google Scholar: California Weather Events
- Fox Weather
- Encyclopedia Britannica: California Weather
- ABC7 News
- Google News: California Evacuations Storms 2025
Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER
The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
