Schwarzenegger Tours Damage, Receives Briefing on Status of Recovery Efforts Following Southern California Mud and Debris Slide

From YubaNet.com

CA
Schwarzenegger Tours Damage, Receives Briefing on Status of Recovery Efforts Following Southern California Mud and Debris Slide
Author: Office of the Governor
Published on Feb 7, 2010 - 1:15:01 PM

Governor Schwarzenegger tours damage caused by the mud and debris slide in La Cañada Flintridge. Photo Credit: Peter Grigsby, Office of the Governor

Feb. 7, 2010 - Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today visited La Cañada Flintridge in Los Angeles County to tour damage caused by a mud and debris slide and receive a briefing on the status of recovery efforts. The mud and debris slide occurred yesterday after a large rain cell traveled through the area, which is also the site of the burn area caused by the 2009 Station Fire.

"My Administration works year-round to ensure that our state is ready for any emergency that may strike California." said Governor Schwarzenegger. "We have the best emergency response teams from local and state agencies in place working to protect the lives and property of all Californians. I encourage everyone, especially those living around burn areas that have resulted from recent fires, to monitor the latest weather information and follow instructions given by local authorities."

On January 21, acting Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. proclaimed a state of emergency in Los Angeles County due to the damage caused by a series of severe storms. This state of emergency is still in effect.

Following an intense rain storm yesterday, the mud and debris slide occurred in La Cañada Flintridge and affected the cities of Acton, Sierra Madre and La Cañada Flintridge. The power of the debris flowing off the mountain pushed a large boulder into a critical catch basin in La Cañada Flintridge which clogged the drain, forcing mud and debris two miles downhill, through the Paradise Valley neighborhood.

The mudslide has reportedly impacted or damaged 86 residences. All mandatory evacuation orders in the area have been lifted, however, a shelter remains open at La Cañada High School's South Gym.

For tips to help your family prepare for any emergency situation and for a list of disaster preparedness resources please visit www.californiavolunteers.org/familyplan/resources.html.