Key Takeaways
- A rare EF-0 tornado touched down in Boyle Heights on Christmas Day, causing damage to roofs, windows, and buildings
- The tornado had wind speeds between 65 mph and 85 mph and a path of about a quarter-mile long and 30 yards wide
- Cleanup efforts are underway across Southern California after widespread damage from days of rain and flooding
- Evacuation orders and warnings in Los Angeles have been lifted, and recreation centers are set to reopen
- Record rainfall was reported in downtown Los Angeles and Long Beach Airport on December 26
Introduction to the Storm
The storm that hit Southern California over the Christmas holiday has left behind a trail of destruction, with widespread damage and debris scattered across the region. The National Weather Service confirmed that a rare EF-0 tornado touched down in the Boyle Heights neighborhood on Christmas Day, causing significant damage to roofs, windows, and buildings. The tornado’s path was approximately a quarter-mile long and 30 yards wide, with wind speeds ranging from 65 mph to 85 mph. The storm also brought heavy rain, flooding, and mudslides to various parts of the region, including the mountain community of Wrightwood.
Damage Assessment and Cleanup
Crews are working to assess the damage and start cleanup efforts in Boyle Heights, where the tornado caused significant destruction. Cameras captured violent winds sending debris flying, and eyewitnesses reported seeing roofs blown off buildings and signs torn from their foundations. The storm also caused hundreds of traffic accidents and severe damage, including ripping off the roof of a home. In Wrightwood, mudslides caused damage, and the storm knocked out power for thousands of SoCal Edison customers. Video footage shows Oriole Road buried under several feet of mud, with cars and streets coated in rain-soaked sludge.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings
Fortunately, all evacuation orders and warnings in Los Angeles were lifted as of 6 p.m. on Friday, and the flood watch issued by the National Weather Service for the city was also lifted. The separate evacuation order for the Riverwood neighborhood in the Sunland-Tujunga area was also lifted, following a release of water from the Tujunga Dam by county public works crews. The Palisades Recreation Center, Rustic Canyon Recreation Center, and Crestwood Hills Recreation Center are set to reopen on Saturday, according to Mayor Karen Bass.
Record Rainfall
The storm also brought record rainfall to the region, with 1.23 inches of rain falling in downtown Los Angeles on December 26, breaking the previous record of 1.2 inches set in 1977. A record was also set at Long Beach Airport, with 1.39 inches of rain, erasing the previous record of 1.14 inches set in 2019. The heavy rainfall caused flooding and mudslides in various parts of the region, and crews are working to clear the debris and restore power to affected areas.
Recovery Efforts
As the region begins to recover from the storm, crews are working around the clock to clear debris, restore power, and repair damaged infrastructure. The city is also providing support to affected residents, including reopening recreation centers and providing resources for those who have been displaced. The storm may be over, but the aftermath will be felt for some time, and it will take a concerted effort from the community to fully recover and rebuild. As the city moves forward, it is essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents and to take steps to mitigate the impact of future storms.