Wed Dec 24 08:00:00 UTC 2025: Southern California Braces for ‘Pineapple Express’ Storm, Evacuation Warnings Issued

Los Angeles, CA – Southern California is preparing for a major storm dubbed the “Pineapple Express,” an atmospheric river originating from Hawaii, set to bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential mudslides through Christmas. Evacuation warnings are in effect for several communities across Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Ventura counties.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a high-risk warning for excessive rainfall and flash flooding for areas north of Los Angeles, including Burbank, Altadena, Glendale, San Bernardino, Santa Clarita, and Thousand Oaks, effective Christmas Eve.

Caltrans closed a 3.6-mile section of Topanga Canyon Boulevard (State Route 27) Tuesday night, anticipating hazardous conditions. The closure, between Pacific Coast Highway and Grand View Drive in Topanga, is expected to last at least through Friday.

Residents in areas affected by previous wildfires, particularly in the Eaton Fire burn zone and Ventura County, are taking precautions, including filling sandbags and securing their properties. Some homeowners are choosing to stay despite evacuation warnings to monitor their homes.

“I’m trying to take all precautions,” said Ventura resident Loren Allen, whose home is prone to flooding.

Ventura County Fire Department has increased staffing by 50 firefighters in anticipation of the storm’s peak intensity between 2 a.m. and 9 a.m. Wednesday. Residents are urged to register at vcalert.org to receive emergency alerts.

“We anticipate the storm to hit overnight — hours 2 a.m. to 9 a.m. So residents in flood-prone areas, have a plan. Know what you’re going to do when an evacuation order is given. Anticipate that it could happen when the power is out or when it’s dark outside,” said the agency’s spokesperson, Andrew Dowd.

The storm has also impacted ski resorts, with Mountain High Resort and Snow Valley closing on Wednesday and Thursday to prioritize safety. Big Bear Mountain Resort has pushed back their projected opening date to January 3, 2026.

Residents are urged to stay informed, heed warnings, and take necessary precautions to stay safe during the storm.

Read More