
In the wake of recent wildfires across Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass has taken decisive action to mitigate potential disaster from upcoming rainfall. In a preemptive strike against the environmental and health risks of post-fire runoff, Bass issued an Emergency Executive Order, as reported by the Mayor's Office. The order lays out a series of measures to bolster the city's defenses against the deleterious effects the expected rain might have on the burn areas, the stormwater system, and ultimately, the ocean.
With the foresight that rain could hit as soon as this Saturday, "it’s imperative we take aggressive action," Mayor Bass stated, as per the Mayor's Office, prioritizing the protection of life and property. Citing the urgency of the situation, city crews have been directed to swiftly implement reinforced barriers, remove debris with heavy-duty equipment, and adapt stormwater systems to prevent contaminated water from reaching the sea. These actions, the Mayor assures, are being coordinated with LA County and state departments.
The Emergency Executive Order No. 2, named Watershed Protection, explicitly commands the City to engage in several key activities. Among them, crews will be installing temporary erosion control measures, clearing sediment from the Palisades area's debris basins, and restoring the functionality of Low Flow Diversion pump stations, which play a crucial role in diverting stormwater to the sewer system, preventing contaminated water from entering the ocean. For residents, the Mayor's Office encourages adherence to guidelines for managing runoff, especially those living in areas untouched by fire, who are directed to follow Los Angeles County Public Health protocols for ash disposal.