A Los Angeles Fire Department vehicle was swept into the ocean from Malibu on Thursday amidst heavy rainfall. The vehicle was on the Pacific Coast Highway when a swift debris flow pushed it off the road.
Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Public Information Officer Erik Scott posted an update on X regarding the incident. He confirmed that the driver managed to escape before the vehicle was carried away.
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The incident occurred at 5:03 p.m., and the individual reached a safe location with only minor injuries. The LAFD member is currently admitted to a local hospital as a precautionary measure.
Scott urged residents to avoid driving in such conditions. “We ask all residents to avoid driving during the peak of the storm and to exercise extreme caution,” he wrote.
Southern California has experienced heavy rainfall over the past few days, creating significant difficulties for residents. Scott recently shared a video of rain pouring down on Malibu Canyon, pushing mud onto the adjacent road.
LAFD had issued evacuation warnings for Thursday and Friday for areas affected by recent wildfires. The fire department cited that these regions are at a higher risk of flooding.
Recent Wildfires and Evacuation Warnings
Last month, California experienced one of its most destructive wildfires. The Palisades Fire, which started on January 7, burned over 23,700 acres before being contained. At least 29 people lost their lives, and tens of thousands were evacuated.
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Evacuation areas under warning
Three fire-affected regions have issued evacuation orders. A map marking the affected areas has been uploaded online.
Palisades Fire Area: Getty Villa area, Highlands near the burned areas, Bienveneda area near Temescal Canyon Park, Reseda Blvd area/Marinette Road near Will Rogers State Park, Mandeville Canyon above Tanners Road.
Sunset Fire Area: East and South of Runyon Canyon.
Hurst Fire Area: Olive Lane in the Oakridge Mobile Home Park.
The LAPD is visiting high-risk houses to ensure all residents evacuate until conditions improve.
Evacuation resources
Residents can contact the Los Angeles Fire Department at (213) 978-3800 for evacuation-related queries. Additional helplines for storm-related issues are 3-1-1 and (213) 473-3231. In case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.