Is the L.A. storm over? The latest on this week’s evacuation warnings, flood advisories and more

The good news is that Monday, February 16, saw the heaviest expected rainfall in Los Angeles (RIP to your long weekend plans). But that doesn't mean we're set for clear skies just yet.

Monday's storm was just the first of three expected to slam Southern California this week, with the second one rolling in Tuesday evening, bringing with it yet more threats of flooding, especially for communities still recovering from recent wildfires.

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According to local forecasts, expect a 100-percent chance of rain during the night of February 17, with half an inch expected. Additional rainfall is expected to follow through midweek, extending the risk window and potentially worsening travel conditions across major routes and mountain passes. A third storm is expected Wednesday night and continuing into Thursday morning.

Evacuation warnings for properties near the burn areas were officially lifted at 9am, February 17. 

The storms are part of a broader pattern of unusually hazardous winter weather hitting the region, with forecasters warning of flash flooding, strong winds and even isolated severe weather risks. Some areas have already seen significant flooding as the first systems moved in.

Monday's storm flooded stretches of the 101 Freeway and forced water into storefronts along Melrose Avenue, per CBS News, leaving some Los Angeles businesses dealing with damaged merchandise and cleanup. Some business owners blamed the extent of the flooding on infrastructure and response failures rather than the storm alone, saying equipment and pumping systems installed to prevent just such an incident either didn’t work or weren’t staffed when needed, prompting calls from local officials for an investigation into the city’s response.

Topanga Canyon Boulevard is closed through Tuesday after multiple slides, and coastal areas continue to face high surf advisories through Friday. A flood watch is in effect from 6pm, February 17, through 6am, February 18.

Local leaders are urging residents to stay alert and follow official guidance, particularly in hillside and burn-scar zones. Evacuation warnings do not always mean residents must leave immediately, but they are intended to give people time to prepare in case conditions worsen quickly. 

For Angelenos, the key takeaway is still aware and prepared. With heavy rainfall and debris, there's no way of knowing just what stretches of streets or freeways might be most affected, so stay vigilant out there. And it might be time to invest in an umbrella.