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A weak tornado with winds estimated at about 85 mph left a path of damage that extended for blocks in a Pico Rivera neighborhood early Mar.13 as a storm brought rain and strong winds to Los Angeles County.

“A confirmed EF0 tornado occurred in Pico Rivera, CA (just W of the 605 fwy & Whittier Blvd) between 3am and 4am today,” the National Weather Service (NWS) announced at 8:39 a.m. “Preliminary details: wind speed 85 mph, length 1 mile, width 80 yards, duration 2 minutes. Exterior damage to homes and cars, multiple snapped trees.”

The tornado caused some roof damage to a few homes in the area, along with uprooted trees and damaged cars, but no injuries were immediately reported.

Although infrequent, Southern California does experience tornadoes. Notable past events include the March 2023 tornado in Montebello, and the devastating March 1983 tornado in downtown Los Angeles, which resulted in nine fatalities and 33 injuries.

Freeways across Los Angeles experienced significant flooding Thursday morning. The California Highway Patrol reported serious flooding on several connector roads, and lanes were closed due to water accumulation. Several vehicle accidents occurred due to the wet conditions.

Thankfully, the tornado did not result in extensive damage and the rainstorm moved east of Los Angeles by Thursday morning. “The main part of the storm has moved east of LA County after packing quite a punch overnight to the tune of at least one confirmed EF0 tornado, up to a foot of snow in the mountains, and rain rates that peaked close to an inch per hour,” the NWS said at 11:01 a.m. “Today should be much quieter but can’t rule out additional severe weather this afternoon (possibly including small weak tornados) with cold unstable air in the region.”

Mayor Karen Bass announced Wednesday morning that Los Angeles’ Emergency Operations Center has been activated to a Level 2.

“While we prepare for another storm headed towards L.A., I want to urge Angelenos to stay vigilant, especially in burn scar areas,” Bass said. “My number one job is to keep Angelenos safe, so please heed all evacuation warnings, stay vigilant and stay informed.”

On Mar.13 morning, Bass said the worst of the storm had passed:
“Angelenos: The heaviest rain has moved out of the LA area,” she posted on X at 8:43 a.m. “Please stay vigilant — especially in burn areas — as periods of heavy rain will continue throughout the day and a Flood Watch remains in effect until 6 p.m. tonight.”

County Public Works crews had been working hard to prepare debris basins, stabilize slopes, and reinforce drainage systems, particularly in areas recently affected by wildfires. They warned that while these efforts minimise risk, mudflows and debris could still cause problems, potentially blocking streets and threatening structures. 

“While these efforts reduce flood risk, the storm could still bring moderate debris and mudflows to burn areas, potentially blocking streets and threatening structures depending on their location and the local terrain,” the department said. “To mitigate potential impacts, LA County Public Works has activated 24/7 storm patrols and remains fully mobilized,” officials added.

We spoke to a few Indian-origin residents of Los Angeles to learn about how the storm has affected them. Here’s what they have to say.

“We are very relieved that it’s finally raining in Los Angeles. However, the damage caused by the winds and the tornado has added to stress on the city’s authorities and infrastructure. Thankfully, there have not been any casualties. We are ready for calm conditions!” remarked Akshay Singh, a Los Angeles-based technology entrepreneur. 

“It's been a crazy ride,” said Priya Patel, a local business owner from Santa Monica. “The constant worry about flooding, particularly with the heavy rain warnings, has been exhausting. But, we’re a resilient community. We’ll get through this, and we should be able to enjoy some sunshine soon.” 

After the devastating fires and now the rain storms and even a tornado, Los Angeles county residents are in desperate need of some good weather this year.