Prepare Your Properties: Heavy Rain and Flooding Expected This Week
Southern California is bracing for a prolonged storm that could bring periods of heavy rain, flooding, and even isolated tornado activity through the weekend. Property managers and building owners should take precautions now to protect tenants, staff, and assets.
What You Need to Know
An atmospheric river is forecast to hit Southern California beginning Thursday, with two main peaks expected. 1. Thursday night into early Friday. 2. Saturday, which poses the greatest uncertainty and potential for severe weather
According to the National Weather Service, this is a “long-duration event” that could bring many hours of steady rainfall across the region.
Forecasts show 2–2.35 inches of rain for most coastal and valley areas and up to 5 inches in the mountains by Sunday.
Evacuation warnings have been issued near recent burn scars due to a heightened risk of mud and debris flows.
Officials are also warning of:
- Flash flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas
- Peak rainfall rates of up to 1 inch per hour
- Wind gusts reaching 30–50 mph in some regions
- Traffic impacts across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties
How It Impacts You
For property professionals, this week’s weather could pose several operational challenges:
Flooding risks: Clear storm drains, roof gutters, and catch basins immediately. Inspect parking garages and lower levels for potential water intrusion.
Power disruptions: Test backup generators and ensure emergency lighting is functional.
Safety communications: Notify tenants about weather alerts and building access updates, particularly if your property is near hillside or burn areas.
Construction and maintenance delays: Secure outdoor materials, signage, and scaffolding ahead of high winds.
Travel and delivery disruptions: Prepare for possible traffic impacts and schedule flexibility for on-site vendors or staff.
While this storm may help mark the end of fire season, it could also strain building systems and test emergency preparedness protocols.
Stay Prepared
Monitor updates from the National Weather Service, ReadyLA, and local emergency management agencies throughout the weekend.
