As conditions in Malibu grow increasingly concerning, residents brace for potential fire threats and the possibility of power outages tomorrow, November 8, and on thursday, November 9. Southern California Edison has warned the City of a potential Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) for some circuits due to the dry, gusty conditions which could lead to the ignition of fires, according to Malibu City official website.
Accompanying this threat is the announcement from the National Weather Service (NWS) issuing a Fire Weather Watch for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Gusts of Santa Ana winds are reaching 35 mph and humidity levels are dropping to a low 20%, resulting in a dangerously high chance of Red Flag duration winds by Wednesday afternoon. The watch remains in effect until Thursday afternoon.
Residents in Malibu are urged to prepare accordingly, by taking precautions such as fire and evacuation readiness, ensuring that flammable objects are removed from homes, and ascertaining that electric gates and garage doors operate during power outages, as per the news release.
For individuals reliant upon medical devices or limited in mobility, and for those with large pets or livestock, early evacuation is a critical to consider. Elderly and disabled neighbors' plight should also not be overlooked during this potentially dangerous situation.
Residents can begin to plan evacuation routes and familiarize themselves with Los Angeles County and the City of Malibu Evacuation Zones on the Genasys website. It is essential to become equipped with necessities like disaster kits and monitor pertinent information sources such as local radio or the National Weather Service website.
In the meantime, the Public Works Team will monitor for road hazards, debris, and downed power lines. The City and Malibu Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) are planning radio communications and preparation of an Emergency Information Station at Zuma Beach. In the event of a power outage, this station would provide necessary information and essential supplies. Local radio, coordinated by the City and KBUU 99.1 FM, will also broadcast emergency alerts, as mentioned in the same news release.
For accurate updates, residents should sign up for emergency alerts through the City of Malibu and LA County.
