The Los Angeles Basin is situated between the Pacific Ocean and the San Gabriel Mountains, making it prone to flash flooding caused by heavy orographic rainfall from Pacific storms. In fact, a study conducted by the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) found that climate change is doubling the chances of biblical flooding in The Golden State. In an article published in the Los Angeles Times, UCLA scientist Swain said that a month-long extreme storm like the one that flooded modern Los Angeles in 1862 could bring several feet of rain hundreds of miles from California. This could lead to the failure of the Whittier Narrows Dam on the San Gabriel River in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, which would displace 5 to 10 million people, cut off major highways for weeks or months, and submerge major cities in the Central Valley, as well as parts of Los Angeles.
Up to 1 million people in the Los Angeles metropolitan area could be flooded by a dam failure, and water levels higher than 20 feet would affect Pico Rivera, a city of 63,000 inhabitants that lies downstream. Flooding is one of the most common hazards in the United States and certain parts of Los Angeles County. Los Angeles County residents, renters and business owners, including people with disabilities and others with functional and access needs, can call 211 Los Angeles County for information on emergency preparedness and other referral services. It is important to be aware of the risks associated with flooding and to take steps to protect yourself and your property.
It is essential to have an emergency plan in place for floods. This includes having an evacuation plan, stocking up on supplies such as food, water, and medical supplies, and having a communication plan for staying in touch with family members during an emergency. Additionally, it is important to have insurance coverage for your property in case of flooding. In conclusion, due to its location between the Pacific Ocean and the high San Gabriel Mountains, Los Angeles is subject to flash flooding caused by heavy orographic rainfall from Pacific storms.
Climate change is doubling the chances of biblical flooding in The Golden State, which could lead to catastrophic consequences such as dam failure and displacement of millions of people. It is important for Los Angeles County residents to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect themselves and their property.
