Section Title
Section 1. Chapter 3 of Title 4 City of Hidden Hills Fire Code In addition, the Safety Element of Hidden Hill’s General Plan (1995) includes a focus on, “the reduction and/or prevention of injuries, loss of life, property damage, and economic and social disruption due to fires, floods, seismic activities, and other natural disasters.” The City of Hidden Hills Safety Element serves three key functions:
Provide a framework by which safety considerations are introduced into the planning and development process;
Identify and evaluate natural hazards; and
Establish goals and policies which minimize potential adverse effects related to natural hazards
The City has also implemented an Emergency Evacuation Plan. The Emergency Evacuation Plan is an important aspect since there are limited means of ingress and egress to the community. The City of Hidden Hills includes specific goals and policies related to natural hazards and wildfire:
Goal 2: Protect natural resources, life, and property from fire hazards in the City.
Policy Description
2.1 In all areas, maintain around and adjacent to all structures a cleared firebreak for a distance not less than 100 feet.
2.2 Permit future residential development only within areas of minimal slope.
2.3 Require minimum road standards in all new subdivisions in order that fire equipment will have access to all properties and that there is a safe means for people to evacuate fire areas. This shall include private drives over 100 feet in length.
2.4 Fire hydrants must be within 600 road feet of a given building site.
2.5 Establish and enforce minimum standards of fire protection for new developments.
2.6 Conduct a study on the adequacy of the City's water system for fire protection.
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Malibu
The City of Malibu Building Code includes wildfire mitigation standards for residential construction. Specifically, 17.40.040 Residential Development Standards requires:
1. Every residence shall have a roof constructed with roofing material in compliance with a rating as specified by Section 1603 (Fire Zone 4) of Title 26 (Los Angeles Building Code) of this code (see Chapter 15.04).
8c. Ridgetop development is particularly susceptible to wildfire hazard. In addition to the criteria to reduce visual impact, the planning director shall evaluate all ridgeline development on slopes of at least 3:1 to incorporate adequate setbacks to address potential fire hazard concerns.
In addition, the City of Malibu General Plan, Safety and Health Element identifies areas of high wildfire risk and includes goals and measures to mitigate the risk of wildfire.
5.3.1 S Goal 1: A Community that is Free from All Avoidable Risks to Safety, Health and Welfare from Natural and Man-Made Hazards
S Objective 1.1: Losses to Life and Property from Natural and Man-Made Hazards Greatly Reduced from Historic Levels.
Policy Description
S Policy 1.1.1 The City shall protect people and property from environmental hazards.
S Policy 1.1.2 The City shall minimize the risk of loss from fire.
Measures to implement wildfire mitigation in the City of Malibu are defined as follows:
Measure Description
S Implementation
Measure 1
Develop a master plan of fire prevention and control identifying hazards, assessing acceptable levels of cost and risk and determining protection programs.
S Implementation
Measure 2
Work with other agencies to ensure effective and efficient fire suppression, prevention and rescue services.
S Implementation
Measure 3
Encourage owners of swimming pools to obtain gasoline powered pumps to use in firefighting.
S Implementation
Measure 4
Establish programs and guidelines for fire-safe landscaping including buffers comprised of fire resistant vegetation between residential areas and open space areas and encourage use of fire-safe landscaping principles which emphasize plant species with low fuel volumes.
S Implementation
Measure 5
Work with the Los Angeles County Fire Department to adopt a program for controlled burning of combustible vegetation, based on the recommendations of the responsible forestry and fire-protection official.
S Implementation
Measure 6
Work with the Los Angeles County Fire Department to enforce code requirements for flammable brush clearance, and reduction of flammable vegetation, including both native plants and ornamental landscaping.
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Measure Description
S Implementation
Measure 7
Work with appropriate agencies to assure sufficient stored water and provide non-monetary incentives for on-site or area-wide shared storage water suitable for firefighting equal to one gallon for each square foot of structural floor area for all new development.
S Implementation
Measure 8
Work with the Los Angeles County Fire Department to establish standards for firefighting equipment access suitable for Malibu.
S Implementation
Measure 9
Create a major streets and routes plan which includes streets available as wildfire escape routes.
S Implementation
Measure 10 Require all new and remodel structures to have Class A fire-retardant roofing.
S Implementation
Measure 11
Develop guidelines and standards for all new and remodel structures to utilize fire-resistant building materials and designs, and, if feasible, to be sited to minimize fire hazards.
S Implementation
Measure 12
Provide South Coast Air Quality Management District regional wind patterns maps to homeowners, architects and contractors to help them plan development siting and design that minimizes fire hazards.
S Implementation
Measure 13
Work with the Los Angeles County Fire Department to provide on-site fire safety inspections of individual homes, when requested by resident or owner, and advise homeowners on ways to minimize fire hazards while maintaining slope stability and appropriate vegetation.
S Implementation
Measure 14 Encourage and support arson and neighborhood watch programs.
S Implementation
Measure 15 Require that all camping be in designated fire-safe camping areas.
S Implementation
Measure 16
Develop a permanent, ongoing homeowner watershed area management plan to reduce fire hazards while maintaining appropriate vegetation that will stabilize the watershed and control the flow of water from it. Application of such plan in Resource Protection Areas shall be subject to review and approval for compliance with resource protection requirements.
S Implementation
Measure 17
Work with water service providers to identify neighborhoods with inadequate flow from fire hydrants, and to upgrade deteriorated and undersized waterdistribution systems.
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S OBJECTIVE 1.2: RISKS TO RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES FROM DEVELOPMENT IN HAZARDOUS AREAS ARE MINIMIZED.
Measure Description
S Implementation
Measure 39
Develop and maintain a development geo-hazard database to incorporate findings from site specific and area hazard-related studies.
S Implementation
Measure 40
Adopt and update as appropriate maps of extreme fire danger areas, 100- year flood plains, landslide and debris flow danger, active and potentially active faults, tsunami, and any other hazard areas; and inform residents of those areas of risks and possible mitigation measures.
S Implementation
Measure 47
To protect slope stability, restrict grading or development related vegetation clearance where the slope exceeds 2:1, except as required for fire safety, driveways and utilities and where there is no reasonable alternative.
S Implementation
Measure 51
Evaluate proposed development for its impact on, and from, geologic hazards, flood and mud flow hazard, and fire hazard.
Specific actions include the following:
The City of Malibu has strategically placed 47 fire-resistant Beacon Boxes around the city which display critical information for public safety personnel such as water resources, road networks, egress areas, safe refuge areas, and high burn risk areas.
The City of Malibu has adopted a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) aimed at reducing wildfire risks in the community. In includes measures such as vegetation management, firebreak creation, and community education.
The City of Malibu’s Fire Hazard Tree Removal program addresses the critical need to identify and remove hazardous trees that pose a significant risk during wildfires. This initiative focuses on proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.
The City of Malibu utilizes Everbridge for their disaster notification system which includes both landline and cell phone contacts.
The City’s three Fire Safety Liaisons are actively working with neighborhoods to achieve Firewise recognition and working to get the City included on the State’s Wildfire Risk Reduction Community List. In addition, the Liaisons are working on implementing the recommendations in the Subdivision Review Program. (https://bof.fire.ca.gov/projects-andprograms/subdivision-review-program/) These City of Malibu plans, goals, measures, and actions are designed to reduce the risk and mitigate the damaged caused by wildfires. These efforts are especially important due to the historical risk of fire in the area. Furthermore, these requirements benefit the socially vulnerable by mitigating the potential for future wildfires which can result in significant loss of life and injuries, damage or destruction of residential and commercial properties, and air quality health issues particularly for lower income, fixed income, single parent households, and the elderly who may not have the financial or healthcare resources to recover.
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Westlake Village
The Building and Safety Division of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works serves under contract as the City’s Building and Safety Department. Building and Safety is responsible for enforcing zoning restrictions and other regulations designed to reduce the threat of fire.
The City of Westlake Village General Plan (1993) contains specific goals, objectives, and policies to address fire hazards within the city.
Goal It shall be the goal of the City of Westlake Village to: Protect the community from fire hazards in order to reduce potential fire damage and the loss of life.
Policies &
Objectives
It shall be the objective of the City of Westlake Village to:
3. Reduce fire hazards in the community's built environment by incorporating sound fire prevention designs, materials and systems into new structures.
Policies
It shall be the policy of the City of Westlake Village to:
3.1. Continue to require that all structures and facilities in the City adhere to City, State and National regulatory standards such as the Uniform Building and Fire Codes and other applicable fire safety standards (I-1).
3.2. Prohibit the use of wood shingle/shake roofs and require the use of fire retardant non-wood roofing materials (I-7).
3.3. Encourage the installation of smoke detectors in existing residences built prior to January 1, 1986 (I-2).
Objective
It shall be the objective of the City of Westlake Village to:
4. Reduce the risk of property damage and human injury by incorporating fire safety designs into the planning of new developments.
Policies
It shall be the policy of the City of Westlake Village to:
4.1. Require adequate emergency access (i.e., two viable points of ingress and egress) for emergency vehicles and evacuation in the event of a fire (I-3).
4.2. Promote the clustering of development in hillside areas (I-4).
Objective
It shall be the objective of the City of Westlake Village to:
5. Ensure that the risk of damage and injury from brush fires is significantly reduced.
Policies
It shall be the policy of the City of Westlake Village to:
5.1. Require that developments located in wildland interface areas incorporate and maintain a fuel modification program, (i.e., brush clearance and the planting of slow burning and fire retardant vegetation) to reduce the threat of wildfires (I-5).
5.2. Ensure that high fuel brush vegetation in wildland areas is cleared/maintained as required to reduce the risk of brush fires (I-6).
5.3. Require all brush clearance/maintenance zones be located on the site they are intended to protect (I-8).
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The City of Westlake Village Implementation Program includes:
I-1 Cooperate with the Los Angeles County Building and Safety Department as well as the Fire Department to ensure all applicable fire codes and standards are enforced.
I-2 Investigate the feasibility of providing a city rebate program for residents who purchase new smoke detectors for their homes where smoke detectors are absent.
I-3 Utilize the City's design review process to evaluate the fire safety aspects of proposed developments. Coordinate with the Los Angeles County Fire department to ensure adequate emergency access is being provided by all proposed developments.
I-4 Implement the Hillside Management Ordinance.
I-5 Coordinate with the Los Angeles County Fire Department to ensure that an adequate fuel modification program is actively being implemented and enforced.
I-6 In event of noncompliance, encourage the Los Angeles County Fire Department to enforce the required maintenance of high fuel areas, through notification and citation of violators.
I-7 Review and revise, as needed, current building codes pertaining to fire retardant roof materials and construction techniques.
I-8 Modify the hillside ordinance to require all brush clearance and maintenance zones be located on the site they are intended to protect.
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SECTION 8. CLIMATE CHANGE
THE NATURE OF THE CLIMATE CHANGE THREAT
According to “California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment” developed by the State of California, continued climate change will have a severe impact on California. Increased temperatures, drought, wildfires, and sea level rise are several of the main concerns related to climate change in the Southwest.
Temperature Rise
By the year 2100, the average annual maximum daily temperature is expected to increase 2° to
9.7° Fahrenheit.6 This rise in temperature can result in power outages (from increased demands combined with limited supplies), drought, wildfires, sea level rise as well as agriculture and livestock losses. The National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) tracks temperature trends. The map below depicts the Maximum Annual Temperature trends for the U.S.
Map 51: Average Annual Maximum Temperature Trends – June 1991 – 2020 (30 years) Source: NCEI NOAA (https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/us-trends/tmax/jun) 6 NOAA (https://www.climate.gov/news-features/understanding-climate/climate-change-global-temperatureprojections) Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Water and Drought
Despite the heavy snowpack created in 2022, by 2050, the water supply from the California snowpack is projected to decline by two-thirds. This will lead to water shortages of up to 16 percent in certain regions causing losses in agriculture as well as community water consumption restrictions.
Wildfire
By 2100, the frequency of severe wildfires is expected to increase, with a projected 77 percent rise in the average area burned statewide. In the areas that have the highest fire risk, wildfire insurance is estimated to see costs rise by 18 percent by 20557 (see Wildfire section for additional area specific information).
Sea Level Rise
The “California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment” predicts that 31 to 67 percent of Southern California beaches may completely erode by 2100 without large-scale human interventions. This will lead to $17.9 billion in losses to residential and commercial buildings statewide by 2050 from a projected 20 inches (50 cm) of sea level rise. Further, if a 100-year coastal flood were to occur, this cost would nearly double. For the City of Malibu, current projections estimate that the coastline risk of seal level rise ranges from Low to Moderate – though the loss of beach sand and higher waves can still have a significant impact on the area. The map below provides an example of areas subject to high tide flooding in Malibu. Note that multiple housing structures will be at risk along the entire Malibu coastline.
In addition, a rise in sea level could
impact Pacific Coast Highway, the
major transportation route through
the City of Malibu. As a result of
the overall threat of sea level rise
in the State of California, Caltrans
is currently conducting climate
vulnerability assessments to
address these and other impacts to
ultimately develop climate
adaptation strategies for each of its
12 districts across the state.
Additionally, the City of Malibu is
conducting a Coastal Vulnerability
Assessment to further understand the sea level rise risk and areas for potential mitigation (see Malibu Mitigation Activities section).
7 California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment
Source: NOAA Office for Coastal Management
Map 52: City of Malibu High Tide Flood Zones
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Drought
Drought ais a climate change related natural disaster. An overview is provided below. Further, additional information and a discussion of the impact of drought is included in the Estimated Impact of Climate Change and Drought of this section.
Drought can have a major economic,
wildland/wildlife, and human
impact. As of 2018, the Las
Virgenes-Malibu region and much
of the population in the State of
California remain under severe
drought conditions after more than 6
years of drought (U.S. Drought
Monitor for California map below).
Additional details on the impact of
drought and climate change on the
LVMCOG Region are included in
the Climate Change and Drought
History of this section.
Figure 90: California Drought Monitor, September 2018
Source: National Integrated Drought Information System
Further, it is important to note that drought can have a secondary impact to the hydro-electric power generation capabilities of the entire western U.S. As a result, drought remains a concern for the entire western region.
2011 to 2017 Drought
The 2011 to 2017 drought had a major impact on the entire state including the imposition of water use restrictions, water shortages in some areas, agricultural losses, and an increase in the threat of wildfire.
Source: National Integrated Drought Information System
Figure 91: 2011-2017 California Drought Percent of Area Impact by Year Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Future Drought Projections
Despite the heavy rains in 2017 that ended the historic California drought, the threat of ongoing and frequent drought remains. In fact, throughout 2018, drought has persisted in Southern California and much of the Western U.S. (see U.S. Seasonal Drought Outlook map below).
Water Supply Management and Drought Considerations
The cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, and Westlake Village rely on the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District (LVMWD) for their water supply management. Similarly, Malibu's water supply falls under the jurisdiction of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD). Consequently, drought is not included as a standalone hazard within the plan, as the management and response to water scarcity primarily fall within the scope of these respective water districts and agencies. However, while drought may not be listed as a separate hazard, the potential impacts of water scarcity are considered within broader hazard assessments and mitigation strategies.
Map 53: U.S. Seasonal Drought Outlook
Source: NWS Climate Prediction Center
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Las Virgenes-Malibu Region Climate Change Probability
Although the FEMA National Risk Index does not include a separate category for climate change, they do indicate 73 drought events per year.
CLIMATE CHANGE AND DROUGHT HISTORY
Temperature
Overall, temperatures in the South Coast
Region of California have fluctuated year-toyear but have shown a consistent increase since 2013. The table on the right provides a
summary of the annual average temperature
from 2000 to 2022.
Furthermore, the average temperature in the
South Coast Region rose 1 degree from 2000
to 2022 and in the summer of 2023, most of the
country experienced some of the highest
temperatures on record.
Year
Mean
Temperature
Degrees F
Historical
Average Departure
2022 70.7 69.1 1.5
2021 73.9 69.1 4.8
2020 69.4 69.1 0.3
2019 70.2 69.1 1.1
2018 70.2 69.1 1.1
2017 71.7 69.1 2.6
2016 72.6 69.1 3.5
2015 73.5 69.1 4.3
2014 70.8 69.1 1.6
2013 71.2 69.1 2.1
2012 68.5 69.1 -0.7
2011 65.8 69.1 -3.3
2010 68.1 69.1 -1
2009 66.5 69.1 -2.6
2008 70.1 69.1 0.9
2007 69.7 69.1 0.6
2006 72.4 69.1 3.2
2005 65.1 69.1 -4
2004 69.8 69.1 0.6
2003 70.5 69.1 1.4
2002 70.4 69.1 1.2
2001 70.6 69.1 1.4
2000 71.4 69.1 2.3
Table 137: Mean Temperature Observations and
Departures for the South Coast
Source: Western Regional Climate Center
Map 54: CNAP Mean Temperature Departures
from 1981-2010 Average
Source: The National Drought Mitigation Center,
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
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Figure 92: Time Series - Departures from 1991 – 2020 Computed Average(s) for 1-month periods ending in June Drought
California is chronically under
drought conditions. Although the
end of 2022 to early 2023 was a
major rainfall period, in general,
drought conditions are expected to
continue. Previously from 2021 to
2022, significant areas of
California were in Severe to
Exceptional Drought conditions.
Similarly, from 2014 through 2016
a large part of the state was under
Exceptional Drought status
(Source: National Drought
Mitigation Center, University of
Nebraska-Lincoln).
Figure 93: California Percent Area in U.S. Drought Monitor Categories Map 55: U.S. Drought Monitor - Western States Status (Dec 2022) Source: Western Regional Climate Center
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The table below provides a summary of the rainfall variations from 1980 to 2022 in Los Angeles County, California.
Year Precipitation
(inches)
Percent of
Average Year Precipitation (inches)
Percent of
Average
2022 7.19 45.50 2000 12.19 77.12
2021 7.02 44.41 1999 6.93 43.85
2020 12.11 76.60 1998 27.80 175.91
2019 22.97 145.38 1997 12.02 76.08
2018 10.24 64.78 1996 18.23 115.35
2017 12.57 79.55 1995 25.51 161.43
2016 11.78 74.52 1994 10.01 63.36
2015 7.55 47.80 1993 27.12 171.62
2014 9.56 60.47 1992 25.61 162.05
2013 4.75 30.07 1991 16.62 105.18
2012 9.23 58.39 1990 7.14 45.21
2011 12.02 76.06 1989 5.25 33.19
2010 25.18 159.32 1988 12.44 78.69
2009 9.99 63.21 1987 12.57 79.52
2008 14.59 92.32 1986 16.18 102.36
2007 6.37 40.29 1985 8.34 52.80
2006 13.23 83.69 1984 10.11 64.00
2005 27.40 173.39 1983 34.60 218.91
2004 18.43 116.64 1982 19.32 122.28
2003 14.62 92.50 1981 11.70 74.01
2002 7.49 47.37 1980 24.83 157.10
2001 17.12 108.34
Table 138: Precipitation Observation and Percents of Average for the South Coast Figure 94: Annual Precipitation in Los Angeles County
0 5
10 15
20 25
30 35
40 Los Angeles County Annual Precipitation (Inches)
Source: Western Regional Climate Center
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Although the rainfall history shows significant variations between dry and extremely wet years, the overall rainfall trend has been moving downward over time which indicates a higher likelihood of drought in the future.
Extreme Weather Fluctuations (Heat and Cold)
Average temperatures in Los Angeles County have shown annual fluctuations between heat and cold with several extreme years showing larger variations than normal. For example, in 2014 the average temperature was over 3 degrees higher than the average and in 1998 the temperature was nearly 2 degrees lower than average. These temperature fluctuations can have a significant impact on the community due to changes in weather patterns, damage to plant life, loss of agriculture, and impact on wildlife. The following table illustrates the departure from normal readings from 1980 to 2022. Furthermore, the overall trend since 1980 has been a gradual temperature rise therefore periods of future high temperatures can be anticipated.
Year
Los Angeles
County
Temperature
(Degrees F)
Departure from
Normal Year
Los Angeles
County
Temperature
(Degrees F)
Departure from
Normal
2022 62.80 1.18 2000 61.82 0.20
2021 62.79 1.18 1999 61.00 -0.62
2020 62.38 0.76 1998 59.86 -1.76
2019 61.11 -0.51 1997 62.85 1.24
2018 63.49 1.88 1996 62.99 1.38
2017 63.88 2.27 1995 62.15 0.54
2016 63.63 2.01 1994 61.33 -0.28
2015 64.02 2.41 1993 61.34 -0.27
2014 64.70 3.08 1992 62.15 0.54
2013 62.51 0.89 1991 60.89 -0.73
2012 62.81 1.20 1990 61.68 0.07
2011 60.58 -1.03 1989 61.63 0.02
2010 60.63 -0.99 1988 61.40 -0.22
2009 62.07 0.46 1987 60.86 -0.76
2008 62.49 0.87 1986 61.84 0.22
2007 62.20 0.59 1985 61.02 -0.59
2006 61.89 0.28 1984 62.27 0.66
2005 61.30 -0.32 1983 61.03 -0.58
2004 61.75 0.13 1982 60.00 -1.62
2003 62.49 0.87 1981 62.68 1.06
2002 61.43 -0.18 1980 61.54 -0.07
2001 61.38 -0.23
Table 139: Los Angeles County Average Temperature 1980 - 2022 Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Figure 95: Average Annual Temperature for Los Angeles County Sea Level Rise (SLR)
According to the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) May 2018 report, Indicators of Climate Change in California,8 sea levels along the California coast have generally risen over the past century (except along the far north coast where uplift of the land surface has occurred due to the movement of the Earth’s plates). 8 Milanes, et.al., Indicators of Climate Change in California, 2018 57 58
59 60
61 62
63 64
65 66
Los Angeles County Average Temperature (Degrees F)
Annual Mean Sea Level Trends
Figure 96: Annual Mean Sea Level Trends
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Measurements at La Jolla and San Francisco have climbed since 1990 from a standard elevation established by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as a reference point. Specifically, the mean sea level has increased by 180 millimeters (mm) or 7 inches since 1900 in San Francisco and approximately 150 mm or 6 inches since 1924 in La Jolla. Further, the 16 tide stations operated by NOAA in California shows an overall increase of 0.96 mm/year in the Los Angeles area coast from 1923 to 2016 (see table below) which equates to a total of 99.84 mm or approximately 4 inches.
Additionally, according to the “Indicators of Climate Change in California”9 report, since the mid19th century, global mean sea levels have been rising at a higher rate than during the previous two millennia.
The rate of increase between 1993 and 2010 was at 3.2 mm/year (approx. 0.1 inch/year) The rate of increase between 1901 and 2010 was 1.7 mm/year (approx. 0.07 inch/year) The Threat of Sea Level Rise to California
In 2020, a report by the California Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) studied the effects of sea level rise in the state. The report entitled “The Threat of Sea Level Rise to California” cited the following major areas impacted by sea level rise:
Public Infrastructure
Private Property
Vulnerable Communities
Natural Resources
Drinking and Agricultural Water Supplies
Toxic Contamination
Economic Disruption
9 Milanes, et.al., Indicators of Climate Change in California, 2018 Map 56: Sea Level Trends
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The following sections are quoted from the study10:
Public Infrastructure
Damage to public infrastructure located along California’s coast represents one of the greatest threats from SLR, as these assets are key components of state and local systems of public health, transportation, and commerce. Examples of publicly owned infrastructure located along the coast include water treatment plants, roads and highways, railways, piers and marinas, and public recreational trails. Depending upon the specific location of these facilities, they could be impacted by both flooding from waves or rising groundwater levels, as well as damage from cliff erosion.
In addition, flooding from SLR threatens several important California ports and airports— including those in Long Beach, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Oakland that are managed by public special districts.
For example, a March 2020 study of SLR vulnerability in the San Francisco Bay Area found that four feet of higher water levels (either from SLR alone or in combination with periodic storm surges) would expose key transportation and commerce infrastructure in the region to flooding.
Locations identified as being at risk include: 59 miles of highways and bridges, 48 miles of freight rail lines, 20 miles of passenger rail lines, 11 acres of ferry terminals, 780 acres of seaports, and 4,670 acres of airports. Such flooding could render this important infrastructure unusable for extended periods of time or, in some cases, permanently and require costly repairs or modifications.
A different study conducted in 2018 estimated potential impacts from SLR on wastewater infrastructure along the coast. Researchers found that 15 wastewater treatment plants in California will be exposed to flooding with three feet of SLR, growing to 36 facilities with six feet of SLR. Facilities in the San Francisco Bay region are particularly vulnerable, accounting for 30 of those 36 statewide plants, with rising groundwater levels magnifying flood risk. The study also found that with just over three feet of SLR, 28 percent of the plants in the Bay Area region will cause them to become inoperable for extended periods of time and create a risk of sewage leaks, posing serious threats to public health.
The erosion of coastal cliffs in California is already beginning to cause transportation disruptions.
For example, in winter 2019, a portion of railway tracks used to carry passengers between Los Angeles and San Diego had to be closed to repair damage from a bluff collapse near the City of Del Mar.
Private Property
In addition to publicly owned assets, private property is also threatened by the effects of SLR.
Specifically, both houses and businesses located along the coast face the threat of increased 10 Petek Gabriel, California Legislative Analyst's Office, What Threat Does Sea-Level Rise Pose to California?, 2020 Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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A 2015 economic assessment by the Risky Business Project estimated that if current global greenhouse gas emission trends continue, between $8 billion and $10 billion of existing property in California is likely to be underwater by 2050, with an additional $6 billion to $10 billion at risk during high tide. Moreover, a recent study by researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) estimated that by 2100, roughly six feet of SLR and recurring annual storms could impact over 480,000 California residents (based on 2010 census data) and $119 billion in property value (in likelihood of occurring in a given year these estimates increase to 600,000 people and over $150 billion of property value.
Vulnerable Communities
While many coastal communities contain affluent neighborhoods, many of those communities include more vulnerable populations who also face the risk of more frequent flooding and damage from erosion. Those who will be affected include renters (who are less able to prepare their residences for flood events), individuals not proficient in English (who may not be able to access critical information about potential SLR impacts), residents with no vehicle (who may find it more difficult to evacuate), and residents with lower incomes (who have fewer resources upon which to rely to prepare for, respond to, and recover from flood events). storm in California would affect 56,000 people who earn less than $30,000 annually, 45,000 renters, and 4,700 individuals who are linguistically isolated and less likely to understand flood warnings. Additionally, a recent report estimated that four feet of higher water levels would cause daily flooding for nearly 28,000 socially vulnerable residents in the San Francisco Bay Area region. (The researchers defined social vulnerability using a variety of indicators, including income, education level, English proficiency, age, disability status, housing status, citizenship status, and access to vehicles.)
Natural Resources
In addition to buildings and infrastructure, SLR also poses a threat to ecological resources across the state. Flooding has the potential to inundate coastal beaches, dunes, and wetlands. This threatens to impair or eliminate important habitats for fish, plants, marine mammals, and migratory birds. Higher sea levels will also cause salt water to encroach into thereby degrading coastal estuaries where fish and wildlife currently depend upon freshwater conditions. A 2018 report by the State Coastal Conservancy and The Nature Conservancy found that 55 percent of California’s existing coastal habitats are highly vulnerable to five feet of SLR, including 60 percent of the state’s iconic beaches, 58 percent of rocky intertidal habitat, 58 percent of marshes, and 55 percent of tidal flats. The researchers estimated that five feet of SLR would also drown 41,000 acres of public conservation lands and add stress to 39 species whose populations have already been classified as rare, threatened, or endangered.
Humans are also dependent on these coastal environments, both for the natural processes that they provide (such as filtering stormwater runoff to improve water quality and providing protection from flooding), as well as their recreational benefits. Millions of California residents Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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the coastline owned by the State Park system. The state’s Safeguarding California Plan cites that for every foot of SLR, 50 feet to 100 feet of beach width could be lost. Moreover, a recent scientific study by USGS researchers predicted that under scenarios of three feet to six feet of SLR, up to Drinking and Agricultural Water Supplies
SLR has the potential to impact the fresh water resources upon which Californians depend for drinking, bathing, and growing crops in two primary ways.
First, SLR may cause salty sea water to contaminate certain fresh groundwater supplies. Some coastal regions of the state are heavily dependent on drawing fresh water from underground aquifers to support their population and to grow crops. In some areas rising sea levels are likely to push saltwater up into these groundwater basins, thereby degrading key fresh water resources.
The degree of this risk is still unknown and being researched, and will vary across the state based on factors like local geology and hydrology. Additionally, SLR may exacerbate conditions for coastal fresh water aquifers that already are experiencing some degree of saltwater intrusion due primarily to their current pumping practices—including in the Pajaro and Salinas Valleys, the Oxnard Plain, and certain areas in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
Second, SLR could impair one of the state’s key water conveyance systems. The State Water Project brings fresh water supplies to 27 million people and to irrigate 750,000 acres of farmland. to successfully move this water from the northern to the central and southern parts of the state.
Higher sea levels pushing into the Delta from the ocean through the San Francisco Bay, however, will place more pressure on those levees. Should the levees in the southern part of the Delta be damaged and breached by these higher water levels, it would cause salt water to flood further into the estuary. This could contaminate the fresh river water supplies that currently pass through the Delta into the State Water Project’s pumps and canals. Additionally, even if levees remain undamaged, SLR will on the natural bring salty tides further into the Delta estuary. This will require the state to direct greater flows of fresh river water to “push back” on those tides in order keep saltwater away from the conveyance pumps located at the southern end of the Delta. Research suggests that such conditions would therefore likely decrease the amount of freshwater supplies available for exporting via the State Water Project.
Toxic Contamination
Flooding and rising groundwater levels caused by SLR could also threaten public health by exposing coastal residents to toxic contamination. Specifically, in areas where underground sea water pushes the water table up towards or above the ground surface, water could also damage and intrude into underground sewer pipes and systems. This could lead to more prevalent incidents particularly during high tides and storms of raw sewage seeping into fresh groundwater aquifers or backing up into streets and homes. Additionally, water infiltrating upward may flow through hazardous contaminants currently buried in the soil and carry them toward the surface, thereby distributing pollutants into fresh groundwater supplies and surface soils, as well into stormwater runoff that flows through local streets and fields. Contaminated lands located along the coast and bay at risk of both surface and groundwater flooding include active and closed landfills, as well Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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as “brownfields” which are undergoing or require cleanup—such as federal Superfund sites, military cleanup sites, and California Department of Toxic Substances Control sites. Flooding from SLR could also lead to toxic contamination from facilities that generate and store hazardous materials, such as laboratories, manufacturing facilities, and gas stations. Floodwaters could from pits or piles.
Available research suggests the threat of SLR causing harmful contamination is significant. For example, research suggests that more than 330 facilities across California that contain hazardous materials and are being regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are at risk of study undertaken in Contra Costa County found that 28 brownfield sites within the county are at feet of SLR. (The study did not consider the potential compounding impacts of groundwater flooding.) These sites contain 68 different contaminants of concern, including various metals, corrosive materials, petroleum products, volatile organics, and pesticides. The study found that “these contaminants can potentially affect soil, sediments, sediment vapor, groundwater, or surface water.”
Economic Disruption
The potential impacts of SLR could have negative impacts on the economy and tax base—both locally and statewide if significant damage occurs to certain key coastal infrastructure and other assets. For example, according to California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, the state’s ports were the destination for $350 billion in goods imported to the U.S. in 2016 by far the largest of any state. This economic activity would be disrupted by flooding of the docks, surrounding roadways, or adjacent railways through which goods are distributed. The productivity of the state’s workforce—and associated economic output would also be affected by SLR. For example, a recent study11 found that over 104,000 existing jobs in the San Francisco Bay Area including from some of the highly successful technology companies located along the Bay’s shore would need to relocate or be lost under a scenario of four feet of flooding in the region.
Moreover, the potential erosion of beaches associated with SLR would impact not only economies. For example, research on the potential economic impacts of SLR specific to the San Diego region found that the tourism and recreation industries face the greatest vulnerabilities.
Overall, the study12
a threat to 830 business establishments in San Diego County, which could in turn affect 15,000 jobs, $2 billion in property sales, and $2 billion in regional gross domestic product. A scenario of 2,600 business establishments, which would affect 49,000 jobs, $8 billion in sales, and $6.1 billion of the county’s gross domestic product.
11 Adapting to Rising Tides, Summary of Regional Sea Level Rise Vulnerability and Adaptation Study, March 2020 12 Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, Regional Economic Vulnerability to Sea Level Rise in San Diego County, March 2018
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Additionally, if property values fall considerably from the increased risk and frequency of coastal flooding, over time this will affect the annual revenues upon which local governments depend. To the degree local property tax revenues drop, this also could affect the state budget in some years because the California Constitution could require that losses in certain local property tax revenues used to support local schools be backfilled by the state’s General Fund.
Sea-Level Rise Threat to the City of Malibu
According to the City of Malibu General Plan, “Elevations within the City range from sea level to approximately 1,700 feet above sea level. Most of the developed areas along the coast lie below 100 feet with the exception of the Point Dume and Malibu Park areas which reach an elevation of 500 feet. The hillsides and coastal mesas such as Big Rock and Las Flores have elevations ranging from 300 to 400 feet above sea level.” As a consequence, the threat of sea level rise is a concern.
According to a 2016 report on the risk of sea-level rise prepared for the County of Los Angeles13, the City of Malibu is at risk of sea-level rise due to the close proximity of assets and infrastructure to the shoreline and the anticipated reduction of beach width (sand front) along the coast due to wave runup and inundation. Further, continued sea-level rise will leave the City of Malibu more vulnerable to future storm events. Finally, if the situation continues, the erosion and loss of beaches can have a significant economic impact to the City. However, the City of Malibu is conducting a Coastal Vulnerability Assessment to further understand the sea level rise risk and areas for potential mitigation (see Malibu Mitigation Activities section).
High Tide Flooding
As a result of the report cited above as well as other similar studies, the City of Malibu may expect an increase in erosion, coastal flooding, and damage to infrastructure as sea level rise continues.
The maps below provide an estimate of areas of Malibu that are susceptible to coastal flooding due to high tides.
Map 57: Malibu Coastal Flood Areas from a High Tide Flooding – Puerco Beach to Malibu Beach 13 Noble Consultants-G.E.C., Inc., Final Report Los Angeles County Public Beach Facilities Sea-Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment, 2016.
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Map 58: Coastal Flood Areas from High Tide Flooding - Malibu Beach and Malibu Lagoon Source: NOAA
Disasters Declarations and Emergency Proclamations
FEMA disaster declarations allow state, tribal, and local governments to access federal aid for disaster response and recovery when overwhelmed. Similarly, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) issues proclamations to mobilize state resources and streamline procedures.
FEMA Disasters Declarations
No disaster declarations.
Cal OES Open State of Emergency Proclamations
Proclamation Date: 10/19/21 || Drought
The Drought proclamation remains a hazard to Los Angeles County as well as the LVMCOG region.
STAKEHOLDER INPUT AND PARTICIPATION
To identify the threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences of a major climate change event on the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region, each member of the Planning Group which included representatives from the cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village provided their input during planning meetings (see Annex B: Meeting Agendas and Attendees) and followup discussions. Specific topics of discussion included if any changes to the hazard priorities have changed since the previous HMP, how changes in the community have impacted the risk of each hazard, and what new mitigation actions can be taken. In addition, each member of the Planning Group as well as members of the public provided the input via online surveys (see Annex C:
Community Disaster Preparedness and Risk Survey, Annex D: Planning Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey, and Annex E: Planning and Public Involvement).
Housing Units
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ESTIMATED IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND DROUGHT
The consequences to local populations and employment of climate change and/or drought is difficult to measure. However, it is anticipated that severe heat will cause power outages, cause health problems, reduce economic output, and lead to decreased worker productivity. The table below provides the estimated impact of a disaster using an overall 10% loss baseline.
Category Agoura
Hills Calabasas Hidden Hills Malibu Westlake Village
Impact if a
10% Loss
Occurs
Population* 20,362 23,410 2,182 10,915 8,081 6,495
65 Years and Older* 3,164 3,873 326 3,149 2,103 1,262
Total City
Employment
11,100 11,800 4.5 6,483 3,700 3,309
Economy**
(in thousands)
$621,000 $1,011,348 N/A $578,443 $576,306 $278,710
Table 140: Estimated Population and Economic Loss of Climate Change and Drought *U.S. Census – American Community Survey 2021
**2017 U.S. Economic Census (in thousands)
The table below provides the estimated impact of sea level rise for the City of Malibu using an overall 1% loss baseline.
Category Malibu Impact if a 1% Loss
Occurs
Total Owner-Occupied Units 3,395 34
Average Home Value $2,000,000 More than $88.8M
Table 141: Estimated Owner-Occupied Home Losses Due to Sea Level Rise Based on a 10% loss projection, nearly 6,500 people could be impacted (either directly or indirectly) including over 1,200 people aged 65 years and older (high risk group) with potentially more than 3,300 jobs lost, either temporarily or permanently resulting in a negative economic impact of more than $278M.
Further, sea level rise can have a profound human and economic impact to the City of Malibu. If 1% of owner-occupied units were impacted, the loss would amount to 34 homes valued at more than $88 million (see individual city Community Profile sections for population, housing, and economic data).
Impact of Climate Change
Each city within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) are subject to the regional impacts of climate change. High heat and drought conditions are expected to continue interspersed with periods of other extreme weather such as severe winter storms and flooding.
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Impact of Land Use and Development
City Impact of Land Use and Development
Agoura Hills During severe weather such as winter storms, developed areas located on hillsides may be impacted by landslides and areas in lower elevations may be at greater risk of flooding, mudslides, and debris flows. Further, extreme drought could result in an increase in wildfire prone areas as well as cause new water restrictions and development requirements which may reduce future development densities and/or changes to local land use plans.
Calabasas Continued extreme weather events caused by climate change such as severe winter storms put residential areas are located in the Calabasas hillsides at greater risk of landslides and low lying areas are subject to flooding, debris flows, and mudslides. Consequently, future development plans may increase the number of restrictions on new development or redevelopment projects, particularly residential properties in hillside areas and in low lying areas below hillside slopes. Additionally prolonged periods of drought could result in an increase in areas subject to wildfire as well as force limits to water use leading to changes in land use patterns and future development plans.
Hidden Hills Ongoing climate change issues are not expected to result in changes in residential patterns in Hidden Hills. Nevertheless, if severe winter storms caused by climate change occur, an increase in the risk of local flooding, landslides, debris flows, and mudflows may occur which could result in the loss of structures and buildable land – changing land use patterns. Additionally ongoing extreme drought may result in forced water use restrictions which could cause changes to building requirements.
Malibu Climate change may result in an increase in the intensity of winter storms causing coastal flooding due to sea level rise as well as inland flooding in low lying areas and those along riverine zones. Further, debris flows and mudflows could increase while cliffside developments and mountain residential areas are susceptible to landslides. Consequently, structures in coastal areas, riverine zones, cliff sides, and those located along isolated roads may face future restrictions or may be converted to public areas or wildland if reconstruction is not feasible. The result would be a change in land use patterns in Malibu.
Westlake Village Climate change caused extreme weather could result in severe winter storms, flooding, debris flows and mudflows in riverine areas within Westlake Village and below the reservoir. Additionally, hillside areas may be undermined causing landslides. The result could cause changes in land use patterns due to additional development constraints especially those areas located in the hillsides and low lying streams in the city.
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Impact of Population Patterns
City Impact of Population Patterns
Agoura Hills Ongoing extreme weather caused by climate change is not expected to cause significant changes to the population of Agoura Hills as the demand for housing in the area continues to remain high. However, construction in flood, landslide, debris flow, and mudflow prone areas could limit population densities in these areas. Likewise, ongoing drought conditions may cause water use restrictions that can cause changes in population patterns by limiting the number of new housing projects.
Calabasas It is not anticipated that climate change will significantly impact population patterns in the City of Calabasas due to the area’s desirable location and local demand for housing. However, as with other cities in the area, construction in flood, landslide, debris flow, and mudflow prone areas could limit population densities in these areas. Likewise, ongoing drought conditions may cause water use restrictions that can cause changes in population patterns by limiting the number of new housing projects.
Hidden Hills Population patterns are expected to remain unchanged due to climate change unless areas of the city are deemed to be unusable following a severe weather event due to a major flooding, landslide, debris flow, or mudflow. In addition, ongoing drought conditions are not expected to change the population density in the City of Hidden Hills.
Malibu Ongoing climate change can result in an increase in the number of severe winter storms leading to flooding, landslides, debris flows, and mudflows in the area which may cause a shift in local population densities and could even result in an increase in the amount of wildland areas where future development is prohibited leading to a slight reduction in the local population.
Westlake Village Climate change driven severe winter storms can cause flooding, landslides, debris flows, or mudflows in the City of Westlake Village especially in areas along hillsides and low lying riverine zones. Consequently, if a severe event occurs, future population densities may shift due to additional limits to construction/reconstruction in hazard prone areas. Conversely, ongoing drought conditions are not expected to change population patterns in the area due to the continued high demand for housing.
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Risk of Future Climate Change
For the LVMCOG Region, the risk of future climate change events was estimated by the Working Group using the following weighted formula:
Risk = (0.45 x Probability) + (0.30 x Magnitude/Severity) + (0.15 x Warning Time) + (0.10 x Duration) Probability Magnitude / Severity Warning Time Duration
Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Unlikely 1 Negligible 1 Less than 6 hrs 4 Less than 6 hrs 1 Possibly 2 Limited 2 6 to 12 hrs 3 Less than 24 hrs 2
Likely 3 Critical 3 12 to 24 hrs 2 Less than one wk 3
Highly Likely 4 Catastrophic 4 More than 24 hrs 1 More than one wk 4 The result was a climate change risk rating of 7.25 (see Annex C Working Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey for additional details):
Hazard Probability Magnitude Warning
Time Duration Risk
Climate Change 9 6 3 9.5 7.25
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CLIMATE CHANGE VULNERABILITIES
In terms of vulnerabilities, the main concerns involve the impact of:
Excessive Heat leading to power outages and heat-related health issues Drought and Limited water supplies causing:
o Reduced water availability to the local community and residents o Livestock and domesticated animal losses (including pets, horses, etc.) o Damage to local natural habitats
Sea Level Rise (City of Malibu)
Wildfire (see Wildfire section)
See “The Threat of Sea Level Rise to California” section for additional vulnerabilities.
Climate change vulnerabilities within the LVMCOG include areas subject to an increased threat of wildfire, flood, landslide, debris flow, and mudslides. Specially the hillside and mountain areas and those below higher elevations in northern and southern Agoura Hills, southern and western areas of Calabasas, southern and western Hidden Hills, the Santa Monica Mountain areas of Malibu as well as Malibu Lagoon, and southern Westlake Village. As a result, there is a risk to lives and health, school closures, significant damage to critical infrastructure, long term business and industry closures resulting in significant economic losses, and damage or destruction of commercial and residential properties.
Climate Change Probabilities
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), continued emissions of greenhouse gases will lead to further climate changes. Future changes are expected to include a warmer atmosphere, a warmer and more acidic ocean, higher sea levels, and larger changes in precipitation patterns. The extent of future climate change depends on what we do now to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The more emitted, the larger future changes will be.
Temperature Rise
California can expect an increase in temperature in the future. A recent presentation by the California Public Utilities Commission, Policy & Planning Division 14 stated that extreme heat days in some cities in California are
likely triple by 2030. The graph below
depicts the number of Extreme Heat
days by year from 1950 through 2005
with predictions to 2099. The
Indicators of Climate Change in
California, Fourth Edition (2022)
report15 summarized trends in extreme
heat conditions for the state. The
report indicated that the number of
daytime and nighttime heat waves
increased from 1950 to 2021.
14 Douglas, Kristin, California in 2050: Some Sizzling Predictions, California Public Utilities Commission, Policy & Planning Division, 2017
15 California Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), Indicators of Climate Change in California, Fourth Edition, 2022 Figure 97: Number of Extreme Heat Days by Year
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For the cities within the LVMCOG the overall trend per decade shows a 0.6 F daytime temperature increase and a 0.7 F nighttime temperature increase.
Map 59: Magnitude and Frequency of Extreme Heat Events (trend per decade 1950 - 2021) An extreme heat event occurs between April and October when the temperature is at or above a location-specific historical temperature threshold, set at the 95th percentile of daily maximum for daytime extreme events. The rate of change (per decade) in frequency, the total number of extreme heat events each year, is the value in each shape (hexagon or oval); an asterisk indicates a statistically significant trend (p < 0.05). The rate of change (per decade) in magnitude, the annual sum of daily exceedances above the historical temperature threshold, in degrees Fahrenheit (°F), is presented using the fill colors (see legend); a hexagon denotes a trend that is statistically significant (p < 0.05), while an oval is not significant. The outlines on the map show the boundaries of the eleven climate regions, as defined by the Western Regional Climate Center.
Per the report, “Since 1950, nighttime extreme heat events have increased in magnitude and frequency more than daytime heat events. The maps show decadal trends in the magnitude and frequency of daytime and nighttime extreme heat events during the warm months between April and October at selected locations.”
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Drought
According to the Indicators of Climate Change in California, Fourth Edition (2022) report16, “California experiences high year-to-year variability in precipitation: some years are very wet, while others are very dry. Since the early 1980s, precipitation over the state has become more variable. The same is true across the state’s climate regions (see appendix; also He and Guatam, 2016). The past decade included the third wettest year on record (2017) and the second driest (2021). In 2017 California emerged from a severe and prolonged drought. From October 2018 to September 2019, California transitioned from a very dry fall into a very wet winter. The water year 2021 was the second driest on record, following 1924.” Figure 98: Statewide Annual Precipitation (1895-2021) - California “Precipitation totals are tracked by “water year,” from the beginning of the rainy season in October through the following September, the end of the dry season. This is more useful than a calendar year in California due to its typically dry summer and wet winter (“Mediterranean”) climate. On average, 75 percent of the state’s annual precipitation occurs from November through March, with 50 percent occurring from December through February.”
Long-term, the LVMCOG region can expect lower than historical precipitation in the future. The chart below provides a predictive model of accumulated rainfall for the area from 2046 to 2074.
Source: Cal-adapt.org
16 California Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), Indicators of Climate Change in California, Fourth Edition, 2022 Figure 99: Extended Drought Scenario (2051 - 2070)
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Sea Level Rise
In terms of Sea Level rise, Cal-Adapt reports that, “Global models indicate that California will see substantial sea level rise during this century, with the exact magnitude depending on such factors as, global emissions, rate at which oceans absorb heat, melting rates and movement of land-based ice sheets, and local coastal land subsidence or uplift.” As indicated in the Sea Level Rise Threat section above, Malibu Lagoon and the entire Malibu coast are susceptible to flooding.
For the City of Malibu, on September 11, 2017 the USGS provided a presentation to the Malibu City Council17 that provided an exposure analysis for the city. The analysis indicated the following impacts based on various Sea Level Rise (SLR) scenarios:
Condition (by 2100) Projected Impact
With 3 ft SLR 13.6 miles of roadway / bikeway will be impacted With 3 ft SLR + 100 yr storm 25.7 miles of roadway / bikeway impacted 1695 buildings impacted (mainly residential)
With 5.5 ft SLR + 100 yr storm 29.6 miles of roadway / bikeway impacted 1916 buildings impacted (mainly residential)
Table 142: Sea Level Rise Impacts for the City of Malibu (by 2100) 17 Hart, Juliette, Malibu City Council Presentation, Sea Level Rise: From Global to Local, 2017 Figure 100: Beach Change Projections
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VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
In Agoura Hills, the elderly and those speaking languages other than English are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The elderly may suffer from heat-related illnesses during extreme heat events and have difficulty adapting to changing environmental conditions.
Non-English speakers may face barriers in accessing climate change information and resources, limiting their ability to respond effectively to climate threats.
Calabasas residents, including those on fixed incomes, transitory workers, homeless individuals, and elderly or disabled residents, are highly vulnerable to climate change. Fixed-income residents may struggle to afford adaptations such as air conditioning or home modifications for climate resilience. Transitory workers and homeless individuals may be exposed to extreme weather without adequate shelter. Elderly and disabled residents may face increased health risks from heatwaves and other climate-related events, and may have limited capacity to adapt.
In Hidden Hills, the older population, households with disabilities, and those with limited transportation capabilities face significant risks from climate change. Older adults and those with disabilities may be particularly affected by extreme weather conditions, such as heatwaves and severe storms, which can exacerbate health issues. Limited transportation can hinder their ability to relocate to safer areas during climate-related emergencies, though a climate-related emergency that requires relocation may be rare.
Malibu's transitory workers, elderly population, lower-income residents, and homeless individuals are especially susceptible to climate change impacts. Transitory workers and homeless individuals often lack stable housing, making them highly vulnerable to extreme weather events and rising sea levels. The elderly may have difficulty coping with temperature extremes and accessing cooling centers, while lower-income residents may struggle to afford necessary adaptations to their homes.
In Westlake Village, the elderly, disabled, homeless individuals, and residents speaking a language other than English are particularly at risk from climate change. The elderly and disabled may face heightened health risks from heatwaves and other climate events, and may have difficulty accessing cooling centers or other resources. Homeless individuals are highly vulnerable due to exposure and lack of resources, while non-English speakers may face challenges in accessing critical climate information and services.
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CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION STRATEGIES
LVMCOG Mitigation Activities
Agoura Hills
The City of Agoura Hills has implemented several strategies to mitigate the impact of climate change and encourage environmental sustainability. For example, in 2020 the City conducted a public survey and workshop then developed a Climate Action Adaptation Plan to obtain input from community members and address the growing impact of climate change.
In addition, on May 13, 2015, the Agoura Hills City Council approved Resolution No. 15-1782 consenting to include properties within the incorporated area of Agoura Hills in the Los Angeles County Energy Program to finance renewable energy sources and energy and water efficiency improvements. The program provides property owners two County approved administrators for the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Financing Programs to assist with these improvements. In 2020, Los Angeles County ended the PACE Program however approved projects were to continue until completion.
Figure 101: City of Agoura Hills CAAP Program
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The City of Agoura Hills Solid Waste
Management Department works to reduce waste
and encourage recycling. Key efforts include:
Residential Recycling
Commercial Recycling
Electronic Waste Collection
Organic Recycling
Construction and Demolition Debris
Recycling
Household Hazardous Waste and E-Waste
Disposal
Illegal Dumping Reporting
SHARPS Disposal
Further, the Agoura Hills General Plan Update
(2010) includes a discussion on the issue of Climate Change and the need for the City to adopt and promote sustainability efforts including the Green Building Program.
The General Plan excerpt:
A key theme of the City of Agoura Hills’ General Plan is sustainability. The General Plan, inherently through its goals and policies, takes steps to address the challenging issue of climate change by reducing Green House Gas (GHG) emissions, improving energy efficiency, reducing the urban heat island effect, recycling, and managing water use. The General Plan will reduce GHG emissions primarily through land use patterns that support public transit, increased opportunities for pedestrians, bicycle, and transit-use, and through requirements for “green building” practices and alternative energy systems. Policies also address adaptation to climate change, such as increasing flood protection.
The sources, impacts of, and solutions to climate changes are complex. Climate change and GHG emissions reduction are addressed throughout policies and programs of the General Plan rather than in a single section.
Appendix A, General Plan Policies Addressing Climate Change, includes a table that summarizes, by topic area, Agoura Hills General Plan policies that address climate change.
Appendix A General Plan Policies Addressing Global Climate Change includes the multiple policies and programs to meet the following objectives:
Mitigation Objective A: Reduction in Greenhouse Gas Emissions Strategy A-1: Reduce vehicle trips generated, gasoline consumption, and greenhouse gas emissions
Strategy A-2: Reduce non-renewable electrical and natural gas/energy consumption and generation (energy efficiency
Strategy A-3: Increase generation and use of renewable energy sources Strategy A-4: Reduce water consumption
Strategy A-5: Reduce solid waste and maximize reuse of solid waste Strategy A-6: Promote carbon dioxide consuming landscaping Strategy A-7: Maximize preservation of open spaces and natural areas Figure 102: City of Agoura Hills Solid Waste Management Web Page
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Adaptation Objective B: Adapting Current Strategies so that Climate Change is Integral to Planning Activities and Decisions
Strategy B-1: Reduce risks from wildfire, flooding, and other hazards resulting from climate change
Strategy B-2: Conserve and improve water supply due to shortages from climate change Strategy B-3: Provide education and leadership in response to climate change actions Specific Climate Change Natural Resources programs and policies included in the General Plan, Strategy B-3 are listed under NR-10 Greenhouse Gas Reduction. Reduce emissions from all activities within the City boundaries to help mitigate the impact of climate change.
NR-10.1 Climate Change. Comply with all state requirements regarding climate change and greenhouse gas reduction and review the progress toward meeting the emission reductions targets. (Imp NR-25)
NR-10.2 Regional Coordination. Ensure that that any plans prepared by the City, including the General Plan, are aligned with, and support any regional plans to help achieve reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. (Imp NR-26)
NR-10.3 Outreach and Education. Partner with local agencies and organizations to coordinate outreach and education regarding the effects of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. (Imp NR-27)
The City’s Green Building Program, according to the City’s website, “is committed to providing a more livable, equitable, and economically vibrant community through the reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and enhancing the community’s resilience towards vulnerabilities and risks posed by climate change”. This program includes other initiatives including installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations and Solar Panel Installation Program.
Agoura Hills is a member of the Clean Power Alliance
(CPA), which enables the city to control the amount of
electricity generated from clean energy sources.
The City of Agoura hill is taking on additional initiatives to address climate change, including:
Solar Project for the Agoura Hills Recreation & Event Center in the 2024 Calendar Year Participation in the SCE Charge Ready Program in 2022-2023 which allowed the City to install 4 new EV Charging Stations (with 7 ports) available to the public 24/7 Public Works Department replacing all 120 fluorescent City Street Sign bulbs to LED bulbs Plans to implement a new Polystyrene policy pertaining to the use of Styrofoam products, which was identified as a City Council Goal for the 2023 – 2024 Fiscal Year Multiple Environmental Responsibility Subcommittee Meetings in October 2023 Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Calabasas
The City of Calabasas has implemented an active Green City Program. According to the City’s website, “To ensure a viable future, the City of Calabasas is taking a leadership role and addressing the impacts placed on the environment by urbanization and a growing populace. These impacts include air and water pollution, climate change, and habitat loss. The City of Calabasas takes pride in its environmental stewardship and seeks to further its stewardship role by adopting a set of green building standards to help create high performance new and remodeled buildings that utilize efficient site and building design, sustainable construction practices, use of rapidly renewable, recovered or recycled
building materials, and use of
operational practices which have
less of an impact on the
environment than conventional
methods”.
Figure 103: City of Calabasas Green City Web Page
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City of Calabasas is working with Los Angeles County to provide energy efficient retrofits to its residents. Los Angeles County invested approximately $11 million in federal grant funds to build a PACE program to serve the county's 88 cities and nearly 10 million residents. The program is designed to encourage private property owners to invest in energy efficiency retrofits and is key part of a broader home retrofit program for LA County.
Renewable Funding was selected to develop and administer the PACE program and worked in partnership with BKi, Build It Green, Energy Coalition and South Bay Environmental Service Centers. LA County’s initiative was developed at the request of the Board of Supervisors. The LA County PACE program was authorized under California’s AB 811, which enables municipalities to provide private property owners with the ability to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements through a voluntary property tax assessment that is paid back over 20 years.
Note: in 2020, the Los Angeles County PACE program ended and no new contracts were approved, however existing contracts were managed to completion.
Other previous and current “Green” projects implemented by the City include:
Project Description
City of Calabasas
Civic Center
In July 2008, the City of Calabasas completed construction of a high performance, resource-friendly Civic Center consisting of a City Hall and Public Library. Both buildings were designed to meet a “Gold” standard from the United States Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System for new construction.
Sustainable design features include the use of energy and water efficient HVAC and plumbing systems, recycled and locally manufactured materials, use of a “cool” energy star rated roof, drought tolerant landscaping, low flow irrigation system, use of recycled water for landscape, use of natural daylight, increased views, systems to monitor and provide healthy indoor air quality and much more. Both the City Hall and Public Library were awarded a LEED Gold Certification by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) on January 20, 2010.
Non-Residential
Green Building
Ordinance
On January 7, 2004, the City Council voted unanimously to approve an ordinance requiring all new non-residential development to achieve the equivalent of a “Certified” or “Silver” rating using the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) v.2.0 rating system. The Green Development Ordinance implements development standards that require new or significantly remodeled, buildings to be high performance environmentally friendly buildings.
Alternative Fuel
Vehicle Fleet
The City's vehicle fleet consists of automobiles, trucks and vans for City employees and includes public transit shuttles and old fashioned trolley cars to serve the general public.
Recognizing that standard gasoline using automobiles consume considerable energy and contribute significantly to air pollution, the City continues to build a vehicle fleet consisting of alternative fuel vehicles to improve fuel efficiency. Recently, the City added nine hybrid vehicles to the City's fleet for use by inspectors, saving gallons of gas from being consumed each year.
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Project Description
Mixed Use
Development
Ordinance
The Land Use Element of the General Plan states that a primary goal of the Land Use Element is to:
“…provide a distribution of land uses that maintains, yet also enhances the environmental, social, physical, and economic well-being of Calabasas”. (General Plan, 2008, II-1)
Additionally, the Community Design Element of the General Plan establishes that, in order for new development to conform to the character of its natural setting:
“…new development should be accomplished through infill and revitalization of existing developed areas in order to conserve undeveloped areas” (General Plan, 2008, IX-8),
Mixed Use development constructed on infill parcels, or on existing developed areas as part of a revitalization plan, will enable Calabasas to maintain and enhance its existing natural environment, as well as boosting the social, physical and economic well-being of the City. Mixed Use does so through efficient and sustainable land use design, which involves combining different land use categories (such as residential and commercial uses) into one development. This eliminates automobile trips between the different land uses, and promotes walkability and a pedestrian-oriented environment. Through more compact, higher-density design, mixed use development helps conserve land as open space, and thus supports the City’s key vision of protecting the natural environment of Calabasas which has attracted so many of the City’s residents to the area.
Consequently, the City has adopted a Commercial Mixed Use zoning district, along with the General Plan identifying three different densities of mixed use land use districts, as follows:
o Mixed Use 0.60 – where the maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is 60% o Mixed Use 0.95 – where the maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is 95% o Mixed Use 1.0 – where the maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is 100% Recycling
Program
With the passage of AB 939 (California Integrated Waste Management Act) in 1989, Calabasas has set up a number of recycling programs to ensure that it meets the State’s goal of a 50% diversion rate. These programs include curbside recycling, construction waste recycling, electronic waste recycling, and household hazardous waste round-ups.
In addition, City staff provides outreach and technical assistance to the public, businesses and schools, and has initiated innovative programs to maximize waste prevention and recycling, and partner with organizations with compatible goals. More recently, the Calabasas City Council adopted a resolution on January 16, 2007 setting a new diversion goal of 75% by 2012, making Calabasas only the second California city (after San Francisco) and the first city in Southern California to set such an ambitious goal for recycling.
Polystyrene Ban
In 2007, the Calabasas City Council adopted Ordinance 2007-233 banning retail food establishments, nonprofit food providers and City facilities from using food packaging materials made of expanded polystyrene, known popularly by the trademark name Styrofoam. The ordinance required food service establishments in Calabasas to start using environmentally acceptable packaging by March 31, 2008, and to report on-going compliance with the ordinance on the first business day of each calendar year.
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Project Description
Watershed
Management
The City’s Environmental Services Division oversees a variety of activities that help reduce or eliminate pollutants from storm water and urban runoff, and enhance the water quality of our local watersheds. These activities include stream restorations, water quality monitoring, capital improvements, public education and outreach, and regulatory activities.
Las Virgenes Creek Restoration
Between 2003 and 2008, the City actively engaged in the Las Virgenes Creek Restoration Project, a project that restored 440 linear feet of a concrete channelized streambed to a natural condition. The Las Virgenes Creek is a part of the Malibu Creek Watershed which provides habitat for numerous animal species including Southern Steelhead Trout, the Southwestern Pond Turtle, Arroyo Toad, Pacific Tree Frog, American Goldfinches, Song Sparrows, Coyotes, and Mountain Lions. The City of Calabasas has sought funding from numerous State and Federal agencies for the restoration effort. In 2003, the City Council approved a conceptual design with final construction completed in Spring of 2008. The project has successfully achieved the following goals:
Enhanced Wildlife Habitat
Public Outreach and Education
Footpath and Trail Connection
Enhanced Water Quality
Increased aesthetics
Other Water Quality programs include:
Water Quality Monitoring
Water Quality Mitigation
Urban Runoff Mitigation
Watershed Regulation
City Events
City Events include:
Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program
Wildlife Restoration Days
Earth Day Festival
Arbor Day
The City’s website is used to provide the community with information on efforts that promote environmental sustainability and initiatives that support the City’s activities to fight climate change. The City’s Green City Program includes:
Green Construction – Guidelines on sustainable design and construction options for homeowners
Green Streets – Storm water management program information Green Rebates and Incentives – Links for homeowner incentive programs Helpful Links – Other links to green information websites Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Hidden Hills
The City of Hidden Hills implemented a “Green Streets” program that helps to combat the effects of climate change. The City incorporates “Best Management Practices” (BMP) to improve water quality, facilitate groundwater replenishment, create parks and wildlife habitats, and provide pedestrian and bicycle accessibility.
Green streets are defined as right-of-way areas that incorporate infiltration and/or biofiltration BMPs to collect, retain, or detain stormwater runoff as well as a design element that creates attractive streetscapes. Green street BMPs may include, but are not limited to, street trees, permeable pavement, bioretention areas, and vegetated swales. As part of the program the City’s policy is as follows:
The City shall review new development redevelopment streets and roadway projects and CIPs conducted within the right-of-way that create or replace 10,000 square feet or more of impervious surface for opportunities to incorporate green street BMPs. This excludes routine maintenance or repair and linear utility projects.
The City shall consider opportunities to replenish groundwater, create attractive streetscapes, connect neighborhoods, create parks and wildlife habitats, and provide pedestrian and bicycle accessibility through new development and redevelopment streets and roadway projects and Capital Improvement Projects (CIPs).
The City’s review of CIPs shall result in a prioritized list of CIPs best suited for green street BMPs. Green street BMPs shall be implemented in high priority CIPs.
The City shall review and update the prioritized list annually.
The City shall evaluate effectiveness of green street BMPs.
The City of Hidden Hills promotes solar installations in accordance with California Assembly Bill 2188 which
amended the California Solar Rights Act, to require that every city create an expedited, streamlined permitting
process for small residential rooftop solar systems. The purpose of the law is to further State policy of promoting and encouraging the installation and use of solar energy systems by limiting obstacles to their use and minimizing the permitting costs of such systems. The City of Hidden Hills created a web page and forms to help the applicants with the permitting process for Small Residential
Rooftop Solar Systems.
Figure 104: City of Hidden Hills Solar Energy
Web Page
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Malibu
The City of Malibu promotes public awareness of the impact of climate change through “Earth Month”. For example, the City hosts an Earth Month Speaker Series which has included various topics such as the impact on the earth and climate change anxiety.
The City of Malibu has implemented several initiatives to reduce its carbon emissions and promote environmental sustainability. In addition, the City website provides the community with links and information on California Assembly Bill (AB) 32, the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 which requires a reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Examples of information links that the public is encouraged to investigate include:
The Clean Power Alliance enables residents and business to obtain the percentage of clean energy delivered: 36%, 50%, or 100%.
The Westside Energy Partnership is a collaboration between the City of Malibu, Southern California Edison, and SoCal Gas. The West Side Partnership encourages citizens to reduce energy use as a means to lowering utility bills and helping the environment. Examples include:
HERO Program - Finance projects for renewable energy, energy and water efficiency improvements, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
Summer Discount Plan – Earn up to $180 in credits on your energy bill with the Southern California Edison Summer Discount Plan.
There is no cost to enroll or participate in the program.
Time-of-Use Rates (TOU) - Southern California Edison’s TOU plans can assist with energy costs. Take advantage of lower rates during off-peak and super off-peak periods.
Medical Baseline Allowance – Southern California Edison and SoCalGas offer financial assistance for powered medical equipment.
Energy Star – Tool to find rebates and special offers available by zip code.
Energy Upgrade California - Learn the connection between saving water and saving energy.
Southern California Edison - Information about rebates, incentives, and savings tips.
Southern California Gas - Find out what home improvements are eligible for rebates.
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The City of Malibu has an Environmental
Sustainability Department to manage its initiatives
to improve the environment. These programs also
support the City’s efforts to counter-act climate
change. The City of Malibu, Environmental
Sustainability Department maintains a Facebook
site to promote environmental sustainability and
provide the public with information on programs
that the City has implemented as well as ideas for
improving the environment.
The City of Malibu Planning Division oversees the
City’s land use which includes coastal
development. As part of this responsibility,
requirements that address the impact of climate
change and sea level rise are included in the City’s
Local Coastal Program (LCP). Examples include:
All new development on the beach or
oceanfront bluff must be setback as far as
possible and elevated above the base Flood
Elevation.
All new development that would require
shoreline armoring or hardening should be
prohibited.
All applicants for new development on
beachfront or bluff-top property must
include an impact report and analysis that
addresses the effect of the development in
relation to a number of things including
future projections of sea level rise.
In 2019, the City of Malibu initiated a Coastal Vulnerability Assessment to obtain additional data on sea level rise. However due to the COVID-19 pandemic a delay occurred and the program was re-started in the spring of 2023 with a series of public workshops. Additionally, the City has partnered with The Bay Foundation and Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors, and the California State Coastal Conservancy on the Malibu Living Shoreline Project (start of implementation in the winter of 2020-2021). The aim of the project is to restore three acres of sandy beach and dune habitat at Zuma and Point Dume County Beaches, providing a cost-effective and low-impact solution to increase the resiliency of the beach shorelines.
In October and November of 2023, the City of Malibu held multiple Environmental Sustainability Subcommittee Special Meetings to discuss and address environmental and climate change efforts within the city.
Figure 105: City of Malibu Environmental Programs Web
Page
Figure 106: City of Malibu Environmental Sustainability Facebook Page
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Further, the City of Malibu regulates development activities along the coast in conjunction with the regulatory authority of the State of California. Other mitigation strategies in the future that may be undertaken by the State or County of Los Angeles may include beach sand replacement, sand dune maintenance, and shorefront protection strategies. These strategies were summarized in the 2016 report in the table, “Suggested Adaptive Management Strategy for Los Angeles County Public Beach Assets”34 as follows:
Additionally, in 2022, the City of Malibu held outreach events regarding climate change efforts, including the following events:
Table 143: Suggested Adaptive Management Strategy for Los Angeles County Public Beach Assets Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Westlake Village
The City of Westlake Village has
implemented several programs to
address the impact of climate change.
The City’s Sustainability website
provides residents with an easy to access
portal to these programs which prioritize
environmental stewardship as a means
to counteract the impact of climate
change. The City’s website provides the
community with information on the
program and actions that the public can
take to contribute to the effort.
The website includes information on conservation, rebates, and other environmental tips as well as environmental programs that the City participates in.
In September, October, and November 2023, the City of Westlake Village held an Environmental City Council Committee Meeting to discuss and address environmental and climate change efforts within the City.
Figure 107: City of Westlake Village Sustainability Web Page Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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As part of its Green efforts, the City provides information on:
Trash & Recycling
Zero-Emission Equipment Ordinance
Clean Power Alliance
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Rebates & Incentives
Additionally, in June 2020, the City began emphasizing the need and benefits of renewable energy through its membership in the Clean Power Alliance. As part of this program, the City of Westlake Village chose “Lean Power” as the default option for the community. Lean Power provides 36% renewable content at the lowest possible cost and offers customers an overall 1-2% discount on their electric bill, as compared to what they would pay if they remained on SCE rates for energy supply. Residents were offered three rate options with various levels of environmental benefits and costs:
Lean Power
(Westlake Village’s Choice)
Clean Power 100% Green Power
Provides 36% renewable content at the
lowest possible cost - with the added
benefit of local management and
control. Our community has selected
Lean Power as our default option.
Provides 50% renewable
content and the opportunity
to support building a
cleaner future, all at cost
competitive rates.
Provides 100% renewable
content and gives you the
opportunity to be an
environmental champion -
leading the way to a greener
future.
On Earth Day 2019, the City of Westlake Village unveiled twenty-two electric vehicle charging stations (EVSE) that are available at publicly accessible locations around the City, some of which are open to the public 24 hours a day to further the City’s commitment to investing in clean air and sustainable practices. All of the City's stations are 'Level 2' with a maximum output current of
6.6kW. As one of the largest per-capita installations of any city around, six stations are located at the Westlake Village Civic Center and sixteen at the Westlake Village Community Park. These projects were completed in partnership and funding
provided by the City of Westlake Village, the
Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review
Committee of the South Coast Air Quality
Management District, Southern California Edison’s
ChargeReady program, and ChargePoint Inc.
Further, the City promotes rebates and incentives to
residents for energy conservation and air quality
efforts.
In 2022, the City Council adopted an ordinance to
prohibit the use of gasoline powered leaf blowers in
Westlake Village starting January 1, 2023. This
prohibition applies Citywide to all homeowners,
Figure 108: Westlake Village Green Rebate and
Incentive Programs
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gardeners, homeowners associations, and landscape maintenance companies. Eligible landscape maintenance professionals can now obtain zero-emission landscape equipment at reduced or no cost through the Clean Off-Road Equipment Voucher Incentive Program (CORE). A Business Outreach Day was held at the Westlake Village Civic Center on January 4, 2023. The American Green Zone Alliance and City staff
shared information on how landscape
maintenance companies could receive up
to 70% off of new electric landscaping
equipment. Equipment demonstrations
and Spanish translation were provided.
Additionally, virtual community
workshops were held via Zoom on May
26, 2022, and June 28, 2022. An inperson workshop and equipment demonstration was held on September 7,
2022, at the Westlake Village Civic
Center.
The City of Westlake Village has an active trash and
recycling program which is promoted via the City
website. These efforts are designed to reduce the
impact waste and promote conservation efforts by
residents.
Finally, the City of Westlake Village also participates in environmental outreach efforts throughout the
Malibu Creek Watershed that include beach clean-ups,
Earth Day events, annual watershed tour, printed
materials, and television and radio broadcasts that
support Eco-friendly messages. Other City programs
include:
Nearly all City vehicles are fuel efficient
hybrids or EV vehicles (one gas powered
truck).
City streets are swept weekly to reduce unwanted materials entering our storm drains.
The City conducts weekly water quality monitoring tests to better protect our streams and creeks. Westlake Village tests have shown bacteria levels well below the state mandated levels.
The City employs a synchronized traffic signal network thereby limiting emissions by minimizing congestion on major thoroughfares.
The City has updated several in-house procedures to ban the use of polystyrene foam products at City Hall.
Figure 110: City of Westlake Village Trash &
Recycling Programs
Figure 109: City of Westlake Village Zero Emission Ordinance Timeline
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The City of Westlake Village has equipped City Hall with an emergency generator. Additionally, the City contracts with a vendor to provide fuel. The City currently has a solar project that is intended to replace the diesel generator on site. Additionally, the City has multiple battery powered generators that could be used in case of emergency.
The City operates Westlake Village Transit which helps to deliver hundreds of kids to school and reduce traffic congestion in and around our neighborhood schools.
The City provides household hazardous waste and e-waste recycling curb-side pick-up.
The City’s annual street resurfacing project recycles and uses approximately 20,000 waste tires per year on average. That equates to about 2.2 tires per City resident.
The City’s traffic signals and safety lights use LED lights as a means of reducing energy costs.
Through an extensive recycling program, the City has diverted 62% of the City’s waste from the landfill, exceeding the state’s 50% waste diversion goal by 12%.
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SECTION 9. ENERGY DISRUPTION
THE NATURE OF THE ENERGY THREAT
Energy is a critical dependency throughout the LVMCOG Region. Sources of energy include electric power, natural gas, oil and fuel supplies. The focus of this section is on electric power disruptions.
The electric power system of North America is comprised of four major sections: the Quebec Interconnection, Eastern Interconnection, Western Interconnection and the ERCOT Interconnection. California is part of the Western Interconnection. Within each Interconnection there are interdependent power generators and transmission lines. As such, a failure in any part of an Interconnection can cause a widespread disruption to all or a major section of the electrical grid.
Figure 111: NERC Interconnections
Energy disruptions have a major impact on the public, businesses, and critical infrastructure. Such disruptions result from natural or human-generated disasters or be a result of other issues such as spikes in demand during peak energy use, unanticipated power plant shutdowns, transmission system congestion, and equipment or system failures.
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HISTORICAL RECORD OF POWER OUTAGES
Energy disruptions have a major impact on the public, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
Within Southern California and Los Angeles County (including the LVMCOG Region), there have been incidents of major power outages in the past. The table below lists examples of major and minor power failures in the area since 1996 to depict the variety of causes and impacts from natural events, technology failures, and man-made incidents.
Event Year Event Affected Areas Cause
2023
October 1 to
December 12
Public Safety
Power Shutoff
(PSPS) Events
Multiple counties in California were
subjected to PSPS from by Southern
California Edison (SCE)
Sustained strong dry winds
resulted in multiple PSPS
events to reduce the
potential for wildfires due to
downed power lines and
blown debris.
2014 Pasadena Power
Outage
Several thousand home and businesses in
Pasadena experienced a prolonged blackout.
Man-made: Mylar balloon
tangled in power lines.
2014 Los Angeles
County Blackouts
More than 50,000 homes were without
power in Los Angeles County.
Natural: Winter storms.
2013 Malibu Power
Outage
More than 3,000 customers along Pacific
Coast Highway lost power in a local outage.
Natural: Bird striking power
lines.
2013 Los Angeles
County Power
Outage
Power outage impacting more than 69,000
homes in Los Angeles County including
parts of Calabasas and Westlake Village.
Undetermined: Downed
power lines.
2011 Southwest
Blackout
California – San Diego, Orange, Riverside,
and Imperial Counties. Also affected states
in Northern Mexico, as well as counties in
Arizona.
Man-made: human error.
2011 Southern
California
Windstorm
More than 340,000 homes were without
power in Los Angeles County including the
San Gabriel Valley, Westchester, Highland
Park, South Los Angeles, and the San
Fernando Valley.
Natural: Downed trees
caused by high winds
brought down power lines
resulting in major power
outages in the region.
2005 Los Angeles
Blackout
The City of Los Angeles, West Los
Angeles, San Fernando Valley, Hollywood
Man-made: human error
2004 Rolling Blackouts Forced blackouts in local communities from Calabasas to Simi Valley.
Technology: Power
company equipment failure.
2000 – 2001 California
Electricity Crisis
The State of California Man-made: energy
shortages caused by market
manipulation, regulation and
deregulation, price caps,
supply and demand.
1996 Western North
American
Blackouts
Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho,
Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico,
Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah,
Washington and Wyoming, Alberta, British
Columbia, and Baja California Norte in
Mexico.
Man-made: trees too close
to power lines caused
systemic failures.
Table 144: Large Power Outages in Southern California
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Average Power Outage Duration, Frequency, and Duration
Southern California Edison (SCE) provides distributes electricity for the LVMCOG region. The SCE Annual Electric Reliability Report 2022 provides average power outage data for its service region.
Acronym Description
MED Major Event Day: A day in which the daily system SAIDI exceeds a threshold value. For purposes of calculating daily system SAIDI, any interruption that spans multiple calendar days is accrued to the day on which the interruption began. Statistically, days having a daily system SAIDI greater than a threshold value are days on which the energy delivery system experienced stresses beyond that normally expected (such as severe weather). Events are excluded based on the “2.5 beta method.” Per IEEE Standard 1366, days are excluded from a given year’s metric if their SAIDI exceeds 2.5 times the standard deviation of the natural SAIDI
“What’s the total
time my power
service will be
unexpectedly
interrupted this
year?”
The System Average Interruption Duration Index is the amount of time on average a customer was without power in a year due to sustained interruptions (measured in minutes per customer).
sum of all “sustained” customer interruption durations
total number of customers served
SAIFI
“How many times
will my power
service be
unexpectedly
interrupted this
year?”
The System Average Interruption Frequency Index is the number of times an average customer was without power in a year due to service interruptions lasting more than 5 minutes (measured in interruptions per customer).
sum of total quantity of “sustained” customer interruption durations total number of customers served
MAIFI
“How many times
will my power
service be
momentarily
minutes) this
year?”
The Momentary Average Interruption Frequency Index is the number of times an average customer was without power in a year due to service interruptions lasting 5 minutes or less (measured in interruptions per customer).
sum of total quantity of “momentary” customer interruptions total number of customers served
CAIDI
“How long will it
take to restore my
power after an
unexpected
interruption?”
The Customer Average Interruption Duration Index is the average time required to restore service for a sustained outage.
SAIDI
SAIFI
The table below summarizes SCE’s 2022 performance for unplanned outages including and excluding MEDs. The table also consists of a 10-year average performance for unplanned outages including and excluding MEDs for comparison.
Total System Indices
(All Interruptions Included)
Total System Indices
(Major Event Days Excluded)
YEAR SAIDI SAIFI MAIFI CAIDI SAIDI SAIFI MAIFI CAIDI
2022 131.13 1.08 1.42 121.45 101.03 0.96 1.23 104.83
10 Year Avg
(2013-2022) 143.09 1.02 1.45 139.67 94.70 0.88 1.29 107.20 Table 145: SCE 10-Year Average Performance for Unplanned Outages The 10 year average performance indicates that a customer may experience 1 sustained power outage lasting over 2.3 hours and nearly 1-1/2 momentary power outages per year.
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During 2022, there were fewer PSPS events that required de-energization of one or more circuits than prior years and SAIDI and SAIFI impact was smaller than prior years. The table below contains the required SAIDI, SAIFI, MAIFI2 and CAIDI indices for 2013-2022 including and excluding MEDs for the SCE system unplanned outages. All calculations are based on the IEEE 1366 method for MEDs. Reliability indices are for unplanned outages only.
Total System Indices
(All Interruptions Included)
Total System Indices
(Major Event Days Excluded)
YEAR SAIDI SAIFI MAIFI CAIDI SAIDI SAIFI MAIFI CAIDI
2022 131.13 1.08 1.42 121.45 101.03 0.96 1.23 104.83
2021 179.79 1.11 1.57 161.70 103.82 0.96 1.43 108.10
2020 201.32 1.06 1.38 190.47 91.40 0.87 1.25 105.51
2019 177.97 1.04 1.38 171.17 90.75 0.87 1.23 104.75
2018 136.82 0.87 1.43 156.61 71.25 0.72 1.27 99.58
2017 139.73 1.19 1.84 117.19 91.72 0.87 1.42 105.40
2016 134.48 1.10 1.55 122.26 109.98 0.99 1.40 110.69
2015 114.83 0.92 1.42 125.40 100.15 0.86 1.29 116.56
2014 112.25 0.97 1.36 116.28 92.40 0.86 1.23 107.12
2013 102.61 0.91 1.20 112.76 94.49 0.88 1.18 107.85
Table 146: Unplanned Outage System Indices (2013-2022)
Las Virgenes-Malibu Energy Disruption Probability
Although the probability of an energy disruption is difficult to predict, the FEMA National Risk Index indicates 2.1 lightning events per year, 0.5 tornado events per year, 0.2 strong wind events per year, and 2.6 winter weather events per year in the Los Angeles region, which can trigger energy disruptions.
STAKEHOLDER INPUT AND PARTICIPATION
To identify the threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences of a major energy distribution on the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region, each member of the Planning Group which included representatives from the cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village provided their input during planning meetings (see Annex B: Meeting Agendas and Attendees) and followup discussions. Specific topics of discussion included if any changes to the hazard priorities have changed since the previous HMP, how changes in the community have impacted the risk of each hazard, and what new mitigation actions can be taken. In addition, each member of the Planning Group as well as members of the public provided the input via online surveys (see Annex C:
Community Disaster Preparedness and Risk Survey, Annex D: Planning Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey, and Annex E: Planning and Public Involvement).
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DISASTERS DECLARATIONS AND EMERGENCY PROCLAMATIONS
FEMA disaster declarations allow state, tribal, and local governments to access federal aid for disaster response and recovery when overwhelmed. Similarly, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) issues proclamations to mobilize state resources and streamline procedures.
FEMA Disasters Declarations
No disaster declarations.
Cal OES Open State of Emergency Proclamations
Proclamation Date: 8/31/22 || Heat/Energy
Significant heatwaves across the entire state strained Californias power grid, threatening to cause energy disruption. The proclamation urged the state residents to conserve electricity.
Proclamation Date: 1/4/23 || December 2022-January 2023 Storms Severe winter storms struck California causing high winds, and expected flooding, and widespread power outages. This declaration was a hazard to the entire state of California.
POWER OUTAGE HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Electrical power is supplied to the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region by Southern California Edison (SCE). Power outages can occur whenever there is a severe disruption to power generation facilities or the electric distribution network (for instance during a severe storm, earthquake, or wildfire).
In addition, during certain extreme weather conditions, SCE and other electric system distribution utilities implement proactive de-energization known as Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS). A PSPS is an operational protocol that is implemented in order to minimize the threat of wildfires and keep communities safe from potentially dangerous situations.
In addition, human error is a potential risk. For example, on September 8, 2011 an Arizona Public Service (APS) employee is believed to have caused a major power outage that included Arizona and portions of Southern California including San Diego, Orange, and Imperial Counties. The outage impacted more than 5 million people. While the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region was not impacted, this event demonstrates the potential for widespread power disruptions.
Furthermore, there is an ongoing risk of cyber-attack to the nation’s critical infrastructure. On August 14, 2003, the MSBLAST worm (Blaster) and SoBig worms were suspected of causing a massive blackout in the Northeastern Interconnect impacting 50 million customers from the midwest to the east coast.
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CAUSES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF ENERGY EVENTS
Energy threats can be categorized into five types of events:18 Natural disasters caused by nature (e.g., floods, wind, earthquakes) Extreme weather conditions causing damage to electrical distribution systems or forcing implementation of PSPS
Accidental events caused by technological failure (e.g., pipeline rupture, chemical spills, nuclear system failure)
Systemic threats caused by the physical inability of the energy delivery system (generation and distribution) to meet demand
Deliberate attacks caused by people – (e.g. terrorists, criminals, hackers, delinquents, employees)
Natural Disasters
Natural hazard events have the potential to cause disruptions in the energy supply. In the Lancaster area, the following types of events can cause outages or other energy events:
Drought
Earthquakes
Flooding
Severe storms
Subsidence
Wildfires
Windstorms
Public Safety Power Shutoffs
During extreme weather conditions such as sustained strong dry winds can result in Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) to reduce the potential for wildfires due to downed power lines and blown debris. For example, in December 2017, arcing SCE power lines during high winds caused the Thomas Fire which resulted in 440 square miles burned. Per an investigation by the Ventura Fire Department, the arc, “deposited hot, burning or molten material onto the ground, in a receptive fuel bed, causing the fire”.19
Accidental Events
Accidental events that cause energy disruptions can be due to technological failure, hazardous materials releases, pipeline rupture, nuclear system failure, accidental actions or inaction.
Accidents can be a localized event such as a car crashing into a power pole or a local transformer incident or can be more widespread such as the Southwest Blackout of 2011 that was caused by an employee making repairs at an electrical substation. As the energy infrastructure ages, there is the possibility of equipment failure that can cause intermittent power or pipeline failures. 18 The National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO) State Energy Assurance Guidelines 19 Weber, Christopher, "Report: Power lines sparked massive Southern California fire". AP NEWS. March 14, 2019 Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Systemic Threats
Systemic threats affect the entire energy distribution and production network, including production plants and distribution infrastructure. Systemic events occur when energy delivery systems are physically unable to meet demand. Examples of systemic threats include insufficient power generation capabilities during peak demand such as such as during a prolonged heat wave.
Deliberate Attacks
Deliberate attacks are intentional, malicious acts caused by people that are aimed at personnel, equipment, infrastructure, or computer systems (cyber-attacks). Many power plants and other infrastructure are remotely controlled by supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. SCADA systems are vulnerable to attack by hackers who can access the system and perform acts of sabotage against a target, and an attack against SCADA can shut down an energy provider’s operations. A deliberate attack such as a Denial of Service attack can slow or shut down a provider’s Web site and make it difficult for customers to access personal or billing information.
In addition, physical attacks can target distribution points, transmission lines, and pipelines.
POWER OUTAGE HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
A large power outage in the LVMCOG Region that happens during the hottest part of summer or the coldest part of winter will likely result in injury and in extreme cases fatalities. An outage at any time will disrupt roads, highways, lifelines, public services, and the general health of local populations. The examples listed below provide brief descriptions of the types of impacts that can be anticipated.
Injuries
There is a potential for injuries both at home and on the roads during a power outage. During an outage, traffic signals will no longer function, creating the potential for automobile and pedestrian accidents. If the outage occurs at night, streetlights will not work, increasing the probability of accidents and corresponding injuries. Emergency responders will have difficulty navigating traffic if the outage causes traffic issues on city streets, and police will probably be used to manage traffic at high-volume intersections, reducing their ability to respond to accident sites. Finally, injuries and fatalities can result from inappropriate use of household generators during power outages.
Transportation Infrastructure
Residents in the LVMCOG area commute frequently by automobiles and public transportation. A power outage will affect the usability of roads, railways, highways, and freeways. Street signals and streetlights will not work causing traffic jams and increase the possibility of accidents.
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Lifelines
Many lifelines are dependent on power, including water pumping stations, food distribution, telecommunications systems, some natural gas and fuel pipelines, and sewage systems. A power outage will prevent these systems from running normally as they are reliant on electricity for operations. A disruption to lifelines will impede the ability to distribute important information to the public, as well as endanger public health and safety. Examples include:
Water pumping stations, wells, and sewage treatment plants are dependent on electrical power. While the pumping stations have backup generators in case of power outages, an extended outage may affect the ability of these stations to provide or preserve the safety of water.
Perishable foods are dependent on refrigeration and electrical power. Without electricity, these foods expire relatively quickly, leading to the potential of foodborne illness.
The telecommunications infrastructure is comprised in part of hard-wired telephone and cable systems (including Internet Service Providers), microwave transmission stations, cellular telephone systems, and radio systems. Industries dependent on the telecommunications sector include oil and gas, electric power, transportation, emergency services, government services, water, and banking and finance. Most telecommunications providers have backup power plans and agreements to procure the fuel needed to run during a power outage, although an extended outage may impede the ability of telecommunications providers to continue to deliver service to the dependent industries.
Some gas and fuel pipelines may be dependent on electricity at pumping and filtering stations. Utility offices and command centers may be reliant on natural gas or other fuels to maintain continuity of operations.
Services
Public facilities are electricity dependent and will be disrupted during a power outage. An extended outage will affect the ability of some organizations to continue to provide public services as well as affect the ability of residents to function normally. Examples include:
Most hospitals have backup generators to get through short power outages and plans to get through longer outages and battery systems to keep critical equipment functioning.
Nevertheless, generators have been known to fail during power outages. In the case of generator failures, hospitals may have to move patients to other facilities and postpone scheduled non-emergency services.
Emergency call centers are dependent on electricity to run and to dispatch emergency services. During a power outage they may be able to sustain operations for a period of time utilizing power generators, however if the situation persists over several days, generators will run out of fuel and the rate of equipment failure will likely increase.
A power outage may cause pump failures that result in a loss of water pressure in some areas, hampering firefighting efforts.
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ATMs and banks rely on electricity to provide money and services. Credit card and Point of Sale systems rely on electricity to process transactions. Without access to banks and ATMs, cash may be in short supply during a power outage, and many stores will only be able to accept cash transactions. Some stores will not be able function as cash registers, inventory systems, and electronic entry doors are dependent on electricity.
Gas stations rely on electricity to power gas pumps and payment processing devices; therefore, many gas stations will be inoperable during a power outage.
Government services that rely on banking, transportation, or communications, such as electronic checks, may be delayed during an outage.
Personal Safety
There will be risks to personal safety during a prolonged power outage. A prolonged outage will compromise medications that require refrigeration (such as insulin and diabetes medications) and prevent home medical equipment from operating. Further, closed pharmacies mean a lack of access to prescription refills. Stress caused by power outages may exacerbate existing medical conditions such as respiratory disease, asthma and cardiovascular conditions. Power outages may stress people trapped in elevators, subways, mines, or other enclosed or isolated spaces.20 Home accidents such as food and carbon monoxide poisoning increase, and heat related illness such as hyperthermia or hypothermia is a concern depending on the location and date of the outage and weather conditions.21 Additionally, a loss of Internet access will have a widespread impact including ISP supported communications, navigation systems, and access to public information.
Economy
The direct economic impacts due to power outages include lost business output and productivity, property damage, business and government overtime costs, increased waste, and commodities losses caused by a lack of refrigeration. Indirect impacts include diversion of capital investments into blackout protection systems.22
Furthermore, manufacturing companies may suffer heavy losses from a power outage, caused by production line disruptions, equipment failure, and increased accidents. Companies outside of the manufacturing sector will likely suffer minimal physical loss in a power outage, but can suffer significant customer and revenue loss. Small businesses are especially vulnerable as they generally have fewer resources and are less likely to have prepared or planned for such an event.
For example, the estimated permanent economic losses from the thirteen-hour Southwest Blackout in September 2011 resulted in losses between $97 million to $118 million dollars.23 20 G. Brooke Anderson and Michelle L. Bell, Lights out: "Impact of the August 2003 power outage on mortality in New York, NY", Epidemiology. 2012 March; 23(2): 189–193.
21 Broder J, Mehrotra A, Tintinalli J., "Injuries from the 2002 North Carolina ice storm, and strategies for prevention", Injury. 2005 Jan 36(1):21-
6. 22 Electricity Consumers Research Council, "The Economic Impacts of the August 2003 Blackout" 23 National University System Institute for Policy Research, "Economic impact of September 9th Power Outage" Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Estimated Impact of an Event
If an energy disruption were to occur, the consequences to local populations could be significant.
The table below provides the estimated impact of a disaster using a 10% loss baseline.
Category Agoura
Hills Calabasas Hidden Hills Malibu Westlake Village
Impact if a 10%
Loss Occurs
Population 20,362 23,410 2,182 10,915 8,081 6,495
Total OwnerOccupied Units 5,861 6,010 603 3,395 2,492 1,836 Total City
Employment
11,100 11,800 4.5 6,483 3,700 6,618
Economy*
(in thousands)
$621,000 $1,011,348 N/A $578,443 $576,306 $557,419
Table 147: Estimated Population and Economic Loss of a Power Disruption Source U.S. Census Bureau 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate *2017 U.S. Economic Census (in thousands)
Based on a 10% loss projection, nearly 6,500 people would be impacted, and more than 6,600 jobs could be disrupted causing over $557M in economic losses. Also, more than 1,800 homes could experience an energy loss (see Community Profile section for population, housing, and economic data).
Impact of Climate Change
For each city within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) depend on Southern California Edison for electrical power and Southern California Gas Company for natural gas services. Consequently, climate change driven events such as wildfire, flooding, landslides, debris flows, and mudflows can damage the power infrastructure and pipelines resulting in a cut-off of energy to either or all cities withing the LVMCOG. Additionally, ongoing drought in the Western U.S. can cause limits to hydro-electrical power capabilities resulting in brown outs and blackouts in the region.
Impact of Land Use and Development
Since each city within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) depends on Southern California Edison for electrical power and Southern California Gas Company for natural gas services a regional energy disruption may impact all LVMCOG cities simultaneously or cause sporadic outages in one or more area. Ongoing energy disruptions are not anticipated to impact land use or development in any LVMCOG city other than require SCE to maintain brush and tree clearance around power lines and SCG to maintain their pipeline infrastructure.
Impact of Population Patterns
Each city within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) depends on Southern California Edison for electrical power and Southern California Gas Company for natural gas services. Energy disruptions are not expected to change population patterns in either LVMCOG city.
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Risk of Future Energy Disruption
For the LVMCOG Region, the risk of future climate change events was estimated by the Working Group using the following weighted formula:
Risk = (0.45 x Probability) + (0.30 x Magnitude/Severity) + (0.15 x Warning Time) + (0.10 x Duration) Probability Magnitude / Severity Warning Time Duration
Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Unlikely 1 Negligible 1 Less than 6 hrs 4 Less than 6 hrs 1 Possibly 2 Limited 2 6 to 12 hrs 3 Less than 24 hrs 2
Likely 3 Critical 3 12 to 24 hrs 2 Less than one wk 3
Highly Likely 4 Catastrophic 4 More than 24 hrs 1 More than one wk 4 The result was a climate change risk rating of 8.20 (see Annex C Working Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey for additional details):
Hazard Probability Magnitude Warning
Time Duration Risk
Energy
Disruption 5.67 15 3.33 6.5 8.20
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POWER OUTAGE VULNERABILITIES
All cities within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) as well as the entire Southern California region is vulnerable to power outages. Major concerns regarding the impact on communities from power outage events is the failure of critical infrastructure and the danger to public health. Critical infrastructure failures may require days or weeks to repair. In addition, the impact to business and industry can result in immediate and long term economic loss. Additionally equipment may be damaged and result in increased recovery costs to residents, businesses, commercial, and industrial organizations. Finally, vulnerable populations dependent on electrical power for medical devices and air conditioning or heating are at risk.
Critical Infrastructure
Critical infrastructure can fail during
a power outage, especially if the
event lasts longer than a few days.
Outages will affect water and sewer
systems, pipelines, transportation
networks, emergency facilities,
telecommunications systems,
hospitals, and other essential sites.
Power outages that last a few hours
may only be an inconvenience as
most critical infrastructure
component have generators or
backup power capabilities, but
prolonged outages will affect the usability of generators and depend heavily on access to fuel sources. Finally, the failure of services such as the sewage system may pose a hazard to the health of the local community.
Many infrastructure components are dependent on each other. For example, pipelines depend on electricity, and while fuel can be used to run generators, once existing fuel supplies are depleted, it is difficult to procure new supplies without electricity. If gasoline is unavailable, transportation systems become unreliable. As a result, these “infrastructure interdependencies” can create larger issues the longer a power outage lasts.
Business and Industry
Power outages impact businesses by causing shutdowns during the course of the event. Damage to physical property, interruptions in the supply chain, damage to refrigerated or heated goods that rely on electricity to maintain a certain temperature, and losses to goods on production lines that must be shut down at the time of the event are expected during a power outage. Further, some computer-based businesses will not be able to function without access to power, cooling systems, and the Internet.
Figure 112: Infrastructure Interdependencies
Source: FCC Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau
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Public Health and Safety
A Yale University study of the August 2003 blackout that affected the Northeast and Midwest regions of the United States and parts of Canada showed an increase in accidents and illness that lead to an increased number of deaths during the event.24 A study by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for the same event showed an increase in foodborne related illness as a direct result of the outage.25 Injuries due to slips and falls and heat related illness or hyperthermia are commonly reported during power outages. Hospitals may fill as people will not be able to utilize home-based medical equipment or procure prescription medications.
VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
In Agoura Hills, the elderly and those speaking languages other than English are especially vulnerable to energy disruptions. The elderly may rely on electrically powered medical devices and air conditioning, and power outages could pose serious health risks. Non-English speakers may have difficulty receiving timely information about outages and accessing support services.
Calabasas residents, including those on fixed incomes, transitory workers, homeless individuals, and elderly or disabled residents, face significant risks during energy disruptions. Fixed-income residents may struggle to afford alternative power sources or temporary relocation. Transitory workers and homeless individuals often lack stable housing with reliable power, increasing their vulnerability. Elderly and disabled residents may depend on electricity for medical devices, making outages particularly dangerous for them.
In Hidden Hills, the older population, households with disabilities, and those with limited transportation capabilities are at high risk during energy disruptions. Older adults and those with disabilities may depend on electrically powered medical equipment and climate control, and power outages can severely impact their health and safety. Limited transportation may prevent these individuals from reaching locations with power, if a prolonged outage were to occur.
Malibu's transitory workers, elderly population, lower-income residents, and homeless individuals are particularly susceptible to energy disruptions. Transitory workers and homeless individuals often lack stable housing and access to reliable electricity, making power outages especially challenging. Elderly individuals may rely on medical devices and air conditioning, and lowerincome residents may not afford alternative power sources or temporary relocation, increasing their vulnerability during outages.
In Westlake Village, the elderly, disabled, homeless individuals, and residents speaking a language other than English are highly vulnerable to energy disruptions. The elderly and disabled may rely on electricity for medical devices and climate control, making outages dangerous. Homeless individuals lack stable access to electricity and resources, exacerbating their risk. Non-English speakers may have difficulty accessing information about outages and available services, increasing their vulnerability.
24 Lights out: Impact of the August 2003 power outage on mortality in New York, NY 25 New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, "Diarrheal illness detected through syndromic surveillance after a massive power outage: New York City, August 2003"
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ENERGY DISRUPTION MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Southern California Edison (SCE) provides power to all cities within the LVMCOG Region and is responsible for managing the power supply. Consequently, the LVMCOG cities have no jurisdiction over SCE or its operations.
To mitigate the threat of power outages, SCE has an emergency preparedness program in place to address pre- and post-disaster planning needs. Additionally, they have included in their plans the need to communicate with the public during an outage. SCE also continually assesses the vulnerability of their system to hazards and takes steps to mitigate the risk. This includes contingency plans for shutting down parts of the electric distribution network in high risk wildfire conditions such as during periods of extreme wind.
SCE conducts regular briefings to each of the LVMCOG cities to provide updates on their mitigation efforts. For example, SCE has provided the LVMCOG multiple presentations on Wildfire Mitigation, Safety, and Grid Resiliency. During these presentations, SCE outlines the major threats to the electric system and the ongoing risk of wildfire, steps being taken to harden the system against these threats, mitigation and monitoring efforts, and the steps taken if a public safety power shutoff is implemented. For example, during high wildfire risk periods, SCE may de-energize the system to prevent wildfires ignited by the electric power transmission system (see Wildfire section for related details). In such cases, SCE has stated that it will provide notifications starting 48 hours prior to a potential power shutoff to:
First responders
Local governments
Water & Communication Service Providers
Critical Care and Medical Providers
Customers
The cities within the LVMCOG are investigating the implications of such actions and the potential impacts to their communities. In addition, LVMCOG cities have implemented building codes, zoning ordinances, and growth and development plans to help mitigate future energy disruptions:
Building codes can be used to ensure that minimum required construction standards are met to safeguard public health and safety and can also increase a community's ability to handle electrical outages by requiring that facilities are adequately prepared for power disruptions. For example, commercial and industrial buildings may be required to have emergency power systems to operate fire control systems and alarms and sites with elevators may be required to have backup power.
Zoning ordinances can specify the type of land use that is acceptable in various locations in a community, and thus affect the electric power requirements of an area as areas zoned "residential" will have a different electricity profile than areas zoned "commercial" or "industrial".
Growth and Development plans are developed by each city. Southern California Edison (SCE) develops future long-term demand projections as a starting point for planning the expansion of electric power generation, transmission, and distribution facilities.
Finally, several cities within the LVMCOG have installed and maintain emergency power generation for designated critical sites.
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Agoura Hills
The City of Agoura Hills has installed and maintains an emergency generator at City Hall. In addition, a second critical site has been equipped with generator capabilities.
Calabasas
The City of Calabasas maintains an emergency generator at City Hall and is in the process of investigating options and funding for upgrading the system to ensure adequate power supplies during emergencies. These options include additional fixed generators and portable generators.
Hidden Hills
The City of Hidden Hills has equipped City Hall and the Community Center with emergency generators. Further, the City is in the process of purchasing a portable generator for additional resiliency. Additionally, the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District (LVMWD) is in the process of constructing a permanent generator in the Hidden Hills pump station to replace the need for portable generators which will help ensure ongoing water supplies in the event of a power outage.
Also, Spectrum provides Internet access within the City of Hidden Hills and has upgraded their battery backup system to enable 72 hours of operation at each node in Hidden Hills which will allow for extended Internet access if a power failure occurs. Finally, the City of Hidden Hills upgraded its radio communications tower and facility to allow for solar power, backup battery power, and portable generator power via a quick connect system.
Malibu
The City of Malibu maintains an emergency generator at City Hall and has distributed small personal generators to residents as part of a Senior Preparedness Program (CDBG Grant funded).
Further, the City has taken additional steps to provide communications in the event of a power disruption including:
Satellite communications between City Hall and CERT members A plan to distribute incident information at strategically located Information Stations within the City
Setup of Information Stations to provide community members with access to limited satellite Internet access
Westlake Village
The City of Westlake Village has equipped City Hall with an emergency generator. Additionally, the City contracts with a vendor to provide fuel. The City currently has a solar project that is intended to replace the diesel generator on site. Additionally, the City has multiple battery powered generators that could be used in case of emergency.
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SECTION 10. LANDSLIDE, DEBRIS FLOWS, AND MUDFLOWS
THE NATURE OF THE LANDSLIDE, DEBRIS FLOW, AND MUDFLOW THREAT Landslides are defined as, the movement of a mass of rock, debris, or earth (mud) flow down a slope. Landslides are a type of “mass wasting” which denotes any down slope movement of soil and rock under the direct influence of gravity (FEMA). Landslides can be initiated by rainfall, earthquakes, changes in groundwater, disturbance and change of a slope by man-made construction activities, or any combination of these factors. Underwater landslides can also occur causing tidal waves and damage to coastal areas. Debris flows are fast-moving landslides that are particularly dangerous to life and property because they move quickly, destroy objects in their paths, and often strike without warning. Debris flows generally occur during periods of intense rainfall or rapid snowmelt and usually start on hillsides or mountains. Debris flows can travel at speeds up to and exceeding 35 mph and can carry large items such as boulders, trees, and cars (USGS). A mudflow is defined as, “A river of liquid and flowing mud on the surface of normally dry land areas, as when earth is carried by a current of water. Other earth movements, such as landslide, slope failure, or a saturated soil mass moving by liquidity down a slope, are not mudflows” (FEMA).
The size of a landslide or debris flow normally depends on the geology and the initial cause of the event. Landslides and debris flows vary greatly in their volume of rock and soil, the length, width, and depth of the area affected, frequency of occurrence, and speed of movement. Some characteristics that determine the type of landslide or debris flow are slope of the hillside, moisture content, and the nature of the underlying materials and the type of failure depends on their composition and characteristics.
Landslides can be described as either: (1) rapidly moving (generally known as debris flows), and (2) slow moving. Rapidly moving landslides or debris flows present the greatest risk to human life. People living in or traveling through areas prone to rapidly moving landslides are at increased risk of serious injury. Slow moving landslides can cause significant property damage but are less likely to result in serious human injuries (USGS).
Nationally, landslides (including mudslide and debris flows) cause 25 to 50 deaths each year. The best estimate of direct and indirect costs of landslide damage in the United States range between $2 billion and $4 billion annually (U.S. Geological Survey)26. As a seismically active region, California has had a significant number of locations impacted by landslides. Further, landslides and debris flows/mudslides are a particular risk in areas denuded by wildfire when significant rains occur. In addition to the potential loss of life, landslides can result in private property damage, impact transportation corridors, break fuel and energy conduits, and disrupt communication facilities.
Within the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region there are areas that are susceptible to landslides and debris flows due to slope instability, fire activity, rainfall and the geologic make-up of the area. Although all of the cities within the LVMCOG prohibit development in areas that may be prone to landslides, there are existing properties that may be susceptible to landslide activity. 26American Geosciences Institute, https://www.americangeosciences.org/critical-issues/faq/how-much-do-landslidescost-terms-monetary-losses Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Debris Flow
A debris or mud flow is a river of rock, earth and other materials, including vegetation that is saturated with water. This high percentage of water gives the debris flow a very rapid rate of movement down a slope. Debris flows can have speeds on the order of 20 mile per hour and can often move much faster (California Department of Conservation). This high rate of speed makes debris flows extremely dangerous to people and property in its path. In the event of a major landslide, debris flow can destroy roadway pavement and fill the storm drain catch basins. Any significant surface movement along streets will isolate residents and disrupt utilities in those areas.
Although no significant debris flow resulting from landslide activity has been recorded in the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region, it remains a possibility.
HISTORICAL RECORD OF LANDSLIDE, DEBRIS FLOW, AND MUDFLOW EVENTS History of Landslides, Debris Flows, and Mudflows in Southern California The National Weather Service has documented the following significant flood triggered landslide, debris flows, and mud slide events in Southern California since 2014 (additional flood events are documented in the Flood and Severe Winter Storm section).
Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
9.12.2022
Moisture from remnants of Tropical Cyclone Kay
brought precipitable water measured at 2.35”
inches, a record level for September and the second
wettest all-time in the sounding record back to
1956. Rainfall ranged from 2 to 6” from the Anza
Borrego Desert to Mt. Laguna on 9.9.
Thunderstorms erupted in the mountains and desert
and Inland Empire from 9.10 to 9.12. Including one
storm producing a rain rate of 2.44” in one hour at
Raywood Flats on 9.12.
On 9.12, flash floods and debris flows flowed
into Forest Falls and Oak Glen, where 30 homes
and businesses were damaged. Search and
rescue operations found all missing persons but
one, a woman who was killed in Forest Falls. 14
evacuees spent at least one night at a Red Cross
shelter. Several roads and highways in this area
were blocked by debris and closed. Other
massive debris flows, including large trees and
boulders, flowed down Banning and Mias
Canyons above Banning. Flash floods were also
reported in Barona and Temescal Valley.
8.13.2022 Thunderstorms hit the San Bernardino Mountains.
2.28” at Yucaipa Ridge.
The rain came in a short time and triggered
debris flows and flash floods into Forest Falls.
7.31.2022
Numerous heavy thunderstorms struck the El
Dorado burn scar (above Yucaipa). Rainfall
intensities exceeded 1” in 1 hour and a couple
approached 2” per hour. Some weakening
thunderstorms managed to drift across southern
Orange County to the coast.
Significant flash floods and debris flows that
closed parts of highway 38 near Angelus Oaks
for days. Storms in the high desert led to several
flash floods.
12.23-24.2021
A series of storms paraded through the region, each
bringing heavy rain during late December. Two-day
totals for this storm reached 6” in the mountains,
but Lytle Creek alone achieved just over 8”. The
northern Inland Empire got 2-5”, while most other
lower elevation stations received 0.75-3”. Even
parts of the lower deserts got more than one inch.
Several mountain roadways were washed out,
including Highways 18 and 243. Flooding was
observed in the Mojave River in Hesperia, along
Indian Canyon Road near Palm Springs, in San
Bernardino, in Cherry Valley just below the
Apple Fire burn scar, and in nearby Oak Glen.
Debris flows inundated parts of Silverado
Canyon within the Bond Fire burn scar.
12.14.2021
A significant winter storm brought heavy rain to
lower elevations. 5 to 6” of rain fell on the
southwest slopes of the San Gabriel and San
Bernardino Mountains, with Lytle Creek singularly
achieving 7.06”.
Several debris flows occurred, in the Bond Fire
burn scar in eastern Orange County and below
the Apple Fire burn scar near Beaumont.
Localized flooding was common across the
region. Rocks and debris closed some mountain
highways.
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
10.25.2021
A significant storm for October tapped into a
weakening atmospheric river to bring over 2” of
rain to parts of the San Bernardino Mountains. 1-2”
were common in the mountains, while 0.25- 1” was
common at lower elevations, including the high
desert.
The rain combined with vulnerable burn scars to
produce rock slid mud and debris flows that
closed es, off several highways in the
mountains. These closures were near Big Bear
Dam, Oak Glen and Forest Falls.
7.30.2021
A surge of monsoon moisture produced numerous
heavy thunderstorms across the mountains. Rain
rates of 1.0 to 1.5 inches per hour were observed in
the heavier storms.
Several flash floods and debris flows occurred,
particularly on the El Dorado Fire burn scar
along Highway 38 near Angelus Oaks.
7.26.2021
Widespread showers and thunderstorms hit the
entire region, even to the coast. Many locations in
mountains and deserts received over one inch of
rainfall, with Lake Cuyamaca topping the list at
2.32”, Indio 1.60” and Apple Valley 1.34”. West of
the mountains, amounts ranged from 0.01” to 0.83”
inch at Rincon Springs. Distribution was not
uniform in any respect.
A flash flood spread sand and rocks across
Dillon Road and Ramon Road near Thousand
Palms. Several Indio streets were flooded with
water.
3.11.2021
A powerful storm contained a heavy burst of rain in
eastern Orange County that struck the Bond Fire
burn scar in Silverado Canyon. 0.20 inch of rain fell
in 15 minutes.
A debris flow went over roads and into homes,
damaging six homes and eight vehicles in
Silverado. The flow also closed a stretch of
Silverado Canyon Road.
1.28-29.2021
A powerful winter storm and atmospheric river
brought heavy rain. 4 to10 inches fell across San
Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties, 2 to 6
inches fell in Ventura County and 1 to 4 inches fell
in Los Angeles County. 1.5 inches of rain fell
across Santiago Canyon in eastern Orange County.
Many areas flooded, including Santiago Canyon
where mud and debris flows covered roads and
damaged homes. A vehicle got stuck in
floodwaters in Perris, prompting a water rescue.
8 people were trapped in a flooding storm drain
between Otay Mesa and San Ysidro. 7 were
helped to safety, but one perished.
4.8-10.2020
A warm front moved through the region on 4/8 and
brought waves of showers from south to north.
Following the warm front, an upper low moved into
the California Bight and stalled on 4/9, bringing 3
to 5 inches of rain to Orange County and San Diego
County through 4/10. Many locations recorded their
highest daily rainfall record: San Diego (1.98"),
Chula Vista (1.56"), and Vista (3.18"). Oceanside
Harbor recorded their wettest 24-hours on record
with 3.06". Six-day storm totals were 3 to 7 inches
along the coast and valleys, 4 to 8 inches with
locally 10 in the mountains, and 1 to 2 inches in the
deserts. Rainfall in San Diego County was 3-4”
inches in a 24 hour period. All-time daily rainfall
records were broken on 4/10 in Oceanside and
Vista, each recording over 3”. Monthly rainfall
records were broken for April at those locations,
each receiving over 6” in just six days.
Numerous flash floods and floods resulted.
Flood waters combined with mud, boulders and
debris in Bonsall, Oceanside, Carlsbad,
Encinitas, Vista, Pacific Beach, Del Mar, Valley
Center, Rancho Penasquitos and several spots in
Mission Valley. Highway 78, a major freeway
corridor between Oceanside and Escondido, was
closed in both directions from flooding on
adjacent Buena Vista Creek. Numerous swiftwater rescues were made all across San Diego County. The San Diego River at Fashion Valley
reached a peak of 12.5 feet.
3.12.2020 An atmospheric river brought heavy rain and
thunderstorms, especially to the deserts where 1 to
2 inches fell. 550 lightning strikes occurred.
Flash flooding was observed near Canebrake,
Borrego Springs, Lakeview, Riverside, Corona,
parts of the Coachella Valley, Apple Valley. A
mudslide occurred near Pinyon Pines. A road
was eroded near Mentone. Water rescues
happened in Glen Avon and Corona.
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
2.14.2019 A major atmospheric river pummeled Southern
California with heavy rain. Many mountain locales
recorded 8 to 10 inches of rain, with Palomar
Mountain recording over 10 inches. Palm Springs
recorded 3.69 inches, the third wettest day on
record.
Flash flooding resulted with damage to roads.
High snow levels resulted in flooding in the San
Bernardino Mountains. Flash flooding and
debris flows occurred at and below the Holy
Fire burn scar near Lake Elsinore. Highways
ripped out by water and debris on both sides of
Mt. San Jacinto were closed for weeks for major
repairs.
2.2.2019 A strong downpour across the burn scar of the 2017 Whittier Fire triggered a debris flow in Duval
Canyon (Giorgi 2019).
The event clogged and damaged a culvert
beneath Highway 154, shutting down the
highway for a month between Highway 246 in
Santa Ynez to Highway 192 in Santa Barbara
for clearing, severing a key north-south arterial
linking north county and south county.
1.19.2018 On Tuesday, January 9, 2018, following the 2017 Thomas Fire, which burned 281,893 acres in
Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, a reported
0.54 inches of rain fell within 5 minutes in the burn
scars from the Thomas Fire in the foothills of
Montecito. Over two days a total of four inches of
rain fell in the area.
The heavy rains caused massive debris flows
and flooding that damaged or destroyed 408
homes, killed 23 residents, and led to the
closure of Highway 101 and the UPRR for more
than 3 weeks, cutting off the county from
communities to the south. California Geological
Survey scientists estimated the Montecito debris
flow as having speeds of 10-15 mph, being up
to 25-30 feet deep, and capable of carrying
boulders as large as a tow truck. (California
Geological Survey 2019b).
1.5-7.2016
A strong, low latitude jet stream brought a series of
storms through Southern California with periods of
moderate to heavy rain. Three-day rainfall totals
were around 2-7” for the coast, valley and foothill
areas, and 1- 3” for the deserts. After several years
of drought, this was the only precipitation event of
significance during an otherwise disappointing
strong El Niño season.
Flooding resulted nearly everywhere, with
southwestern San Diego County being hardest
hit. Floods buried cars in Ocean Beach and
Mission Valley. High water rescues occurred on
1.6 around San Diego. Small mudslides,
including boulders on highways were reported
near Ramona, Redlands, Crestline, Orange,
Rancho San Diego and De Luz. Three debris
flows in Silverado Canyon below a burn scar.
9.15.2015
A Pacific trough tapped into remnant moisture from
tropical cyclone Linda. 1-2” of rain was common
across the entire region.
Major traffic jam during the morning commute
in LA and Orange County, along with a debris
flow in Silverado Canyon, and widespread
urban flooding.
7.18-19.2015
Moisture from Hurricane Dolores, along with
monsoon moisture resulted in showers and
thunderstorms over most Southern California.
Rainfall ranged from 0.5-4”, including a record
1.71” at San Diego on 7.18 (unprecedented rainfall:
single-day and July monthly total). The San Diego
River at Fashion Valley had 2 crests above monitor
stage, 7.7 feet on the 18th and 8.8 feet on 7.19. On
7.19 over 6” of rain fell over several hours just west
of Desert Center.
A debris flow hit the burn scar of Silverado
Canyon. Flash floods hit Moreno Valley, Perris,
and La Mesa on 7.19. A wet microburst struck
Tierrasanta on 7.18, causing wind damage. A
haboob caused wind damage in the Anza
Borrego Park and in Palm Desert. The rain
caused the first rain-out of a Los Angeles
Angels baseball game since 1995, and a rare 2-
hour rain delay at the San Diego Padres baseball
game. Over 2000 lightning strikes were reported
on 7.18, some starting small brush fires. Near
Desert Center on 7.19 eastbound lanes of
Interstate 10 collapsed where they crossed a
heavily flowing wash. A vehicle drove into the
hole in the collapsed bridge, trapping the driver
and requiring rescue. I-10 was closed in both
directions causing huge traffic backups.
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
7.6.2015
Monsoon thunderstorms hit the mountains and
upper desert. A few spots received up to around
one-third of an inch, including a portion of the Lake
Fire burn area south of Big Bear Lake.
Several debris flows resulted, including one
consisting mostly of ash and mud over portions
of Highway 38, up to a foot deep in some areas.
12.3-4.2014
A Pacific storm brought moderate to heavy rain.
Two-day rainfall totals of 1-2” were recorded west
of the mountains, while the southern slopes of the
San Bernardino County mountains saw up to 5” of
rain (isolated amount of 14.5” at Yucaipa Ridge).
Flooding resulted, with mud, debris and water
closing several roadways and stranding
vehicles. Mud with debris 10 feet high piled up
on Soboba Rd. north of San Jacinto. A swift
water rescue was needed.
9.7-8.2014
Weakening Hurricane Norbert brought moisture to
produce thunderstorms mainly in Riverside and San
Diego Counties. Rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches
fell over the city of Riverside, San Bernardino and
Hemet, while the mountains in that county saw up
to 0.60” near Sky Valley. Early morning
thunderstorms on 9.8 drenched parts of the
Coachella Valley which received 0.33” up to just
over 3 inches near the lower foothill in Thousand
Palms and La Quinta.
Widespread flash flooding, most notably in the
Coachella Valley on 9.8. Mud and water closed
roads and stranded vehicles in La Quinta, Palm
Desert, and Thousand Palms. Homes in La
Quinta were surrounded by water. Moving
water was 3 feet deep on roads and 4 to 5 feet of
standing water submerged vehicles. Mud was
several feet deep on Varner Road.
8.12.2014
A heavy thunderstorm struck east of Julian. A debris flow blocked Hwy. 78 east of Julian on the Banner Grade that was one to two feet deep.
The Banner Fire burn scar contributed to this
flow.
2.28-3.1.2014
A very wet storm was the only significant storm of
the 2013-14 wet season. Rainfall ranged from 1
inch at the coast to up to 8 inches in the mountains.
Up to 1 inch fell in the desert. Yucaipa Ridge
measured over 11 inches.
Urban and flash flooding with mud/debris
flows, causing numerous road closures and
swift water rescues in and around Anaheim, San
Diego-Fashion Valley, Escondido, Fallbrook
and Lake Elsinore. Mud slides closed Hwy. 74
(Ortega Highway) stemming from the Falls Fire
burn scar. Many road closures in the Coachella
Valley where rivers saw rises of 2 to 5 feet, in
some instances within 12 hours. On 3.1,
flooding resulted in Oceanside, Temecula, Sea
World San Diego, as well as minor street
flooding in Mission Viejo.
Table 148: A History of Significant Weather Events in Southern California - Organized by Weather Type (Feb 2023) – From 2014 to 2022
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Las Virgenes-Malibu Landslide Probability
According to the FEMA National Risk Index, the Los Angeles region records the chance of landslides as 0.2 events per year.
Disasters Declarations and Emergency Proclamations
FEMA disaster declarations allow state, tribal, and local governments to access federal aid for disaster response and recovery when overwhelmed. Similarly, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) issues proclamations to mobilize state resources and streamline procedures.
FEMA Disasters Declarations
Declaration Date: 1/9/23 || California Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, and Mudslides || DD# em3591-CA Winter storm conditions caused flooding, debris flows and mudslides across most of California, though most damage was sustained outside the LVMCOG region.
Declaration Date: 3/10/23 || California Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, Landslides, and Mudslides || DD# EM-3592-CA
Landslides and mudslides occurred during a severe winter storm, despite heavy damage reported across the state coast, the LVMCOG region was not as heavily affected.
Cal OES Open State of Emergency Proclamations
Proclamation Date: 9/16/22 || Tropical Storm Kay
Tropical storm conditions brought heavy rainfall and strong winds across southern California, causing flooding and debris flows. The storm system, including debris flows, also damaged or destroyed roads in Imperial, Inyo, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties.
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Significant Southern California Landslides, Debris Flows, and Mudflows 2023 Rolling Hills Estates Landslide
In July 2023, a landslide destroyed 12 homes in Rolling Hills Estates on the Palos Verdes Peninsula (south of the Malibu coast) with other residents forced to evacuate. Each of the 12 destroyed homes was valued at over $1 million each resulting in a total loss of more than $15.5 million.
2022 Southern California Mudflows
In 2022, heavy rains in the Southern California area resulted in numerous cases of landslides and mudflows. For example, in Oak Glen near Yucaipa flashfloods resulted in mudflows that destroyed several homes and businesses.
2018 Southern California Mudflows
In January 2018, a series of mudflows occurred in the Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and Santa Barbara Counties. These mudflows occurred in areas that had previously experienced major wildfires. Subsequent rains resulted in multiple mudflow events. Specifically, the Montecito Mudslide caused 23 reported deaths, multiple injuries, and at least $177 million in property damage.27
Figure 113: Montecito Mudflow 2018
Source: Matt Udkow, Santa Barbara County Fire Department 1994 Northridge Earthquake Landslide Related Impact
As a result of the magnitude 6.7 Northridge, California, earthquake, more than 11,000 landslides occurred over an area of 10,000 km2. Most were in the Santa Susana Mountains and in mountains north of the Santa Clara River Valley. The earth movement destroyed dozens of homes, blocked roads, and damaged oil-field infrastructure. It also caused deaths from Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever), the spore of which was released from the soil and blown toward the coastal populated areas. The spore was released from the soil by the landslide activity. 27 Robert D. Niehaus, Inc., Preliminary Impact Assessment: Montecito Mudslides, 2018 Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments 2024 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Version 1.1 Page 10-8 Revision Date: 06/13/24 Landslides, Debris Flows, and Mudflows in the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region The cities within the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region are subject to landslide events due to heavy rains or seismic events. The map below depicts the historic dormant and active landslide (debris flow and/or mudflows) areas within each city. Note: No historic or active landslide zones are within the boundaries of Hidden Hills. Map 60: Dormant and Active Landslide Areas in the LVMCOG Region Source: California Department of Conservation ( MLC & Associates 2024 LVMCOG MJHMP https://maps.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/lsi/app/) Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments 2024 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Version 1.1 Page 10-9 Revision Date: 06/13/24 MLC & Associates 2024 LVMCOG MJHMP ***This page intentionally left blank*** Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Agoura Hills Landslides, Debris Flows, and Mudflows
Examples of landslide events in the City of Agoura Hills since 1990 include the Via Amistosa, Morrison Ranch, Liberty Canyon Slope Failure, Laura La Plante, Laro, and Chateau Park landslides. In 1999, Agoura Hills experienced the Kanan Slope Repair as a result of the El Nino storms of 1998. However, as of 2023 all remediation slope repairs have been completed. The City will continue future repair efforts as a result of future storms.
Calabasas Landslides, Debris Flows, and Mudflows
In January 2023 a mudslide blocked the northbound lanes at the intersection of Mulholland Highway and Stunt Road near the southwest border of the City of Calabasas. In June 2022, a large rock blocked Mulholland Highway near Las Virgenes Road in Calabasas (no injuries reported).28 This event disrupted traffic in the area until the roadway could be cleared.
Malibu Landslides, Debris Flows, and Mudflows
Due to the topography of the area, landslides in Malibu can severely disrupt transportation at a regional level. For example, Pacific Coast Highway is a heavily used transportation route and road closures due to landslides are a major concern. Recent incidents in the City of Malibu have included the Highway 23, Little Dume Beach, and Piuma Road landslides (see 2021-2023 summary below). Previous events include the: Calle del Barco, Kanan, Pacific Coast Highway, Las Flores, Love, and Malibu Road landslides.
2021 - 2023 Malibu Landslides / Mudslides
In December 2021, a mud and rockslide forced the closure of Highway 23 (no injuries reported).
Also, in November 2021, a rockslide near Little Dume beach occurred requiring closure of the area until the potential for further rock falls could be determined. In October 2022, a landslide north of Pacific Coast Highway resulted in the closure of Highway 23 between Westlake Village and Malibu. Road clearing and repair efforts required the road to be shut down for 3 weeks. In March 2023, a rockslide caused by heavy rains occurred south of Piuma Road causing several large boulders to fall onto Malibu Canyon Road. The rockslide required the closure of the road for 24 hours while clean-up crews cleared the road (no injuries reported).
Other landslide events periodically occur in the City of Malibu and the City has taken steps to monitor and mitigate the issue. For example, The Malibu Road Landslide Assessment District was authorized in 1998 (Resolution 98-036) to provide funding to maintain and monitor dewatering facilities that are intended to stabilize the landslide area.29 28 https://cadoc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=bc48ad40e3504134a1fc8f3909659041 29 Fugro, Annual Report Malibu Road Landslide Assessment District, June 2017 Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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STAKEHOLDER INPUT AND PARTICIPATION
To identify the threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences of a major landslide, debris flow, and mudflow on the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region, each member of the Planning Group which included representatives from the cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village provided their input during planning meetings (see Annex B: Meeting Agendas and Attendees) and follow-up discussions. Specific topics of discussion included if any changes to the hazard priorities have changed since the previous HMP, how changes in the community have impacted the risk of each hazard, and what new mitigation actions can be taken. In addition, each member of the Planning Group as well as members of the public provided the input via online surveys (see Annex C: Community Disaster Preparedness and Risk Survey, Annex D: Planning Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey, and Annex E: Planning and Public Involvement).
CAUSES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF LANDSLIDES, DEBRIS FLOWS, AND
MUDFLOWS
Landslide, Debris Flows, and Mudflows Events and Impacts Landslides including debris flows and mudflows are a common hazard in California. Weathering and the decomposition of geologic materials produces conditions conducive to landslides and human activity further exacerbates landslide potential. Many landslides are difficult to mitigate, particularly in areas of large historic movement with weak underlying geologic materials.
Rock falls occur when blocks of material come loose on steep slopes. Weathering, erosion, or excavations, such as those along highways, can cause falls where the road has been cut through bedrock. These rock falls are fast moving with materials free falling or bouncing down slopes.
The volume of material involved is generally small, but large boulders or blocks of rock can cause significant damage.
As communities continue to modify the terrain and influence natural processes, it is important to be aware of the physical properties of the underlying soils as they (along with climate) create landslide hazards. This is especially important with the demands placed on buildable land (particularly in urban areas) that increases the tendency to build on geologically marginal areas such as hillside lots.
LANDSLIDE, DEBRIS FLOWS, AND MUDFLOWS HAZARD IDENTIFICATION Landslides, debris flows, and mudflows are often triggered by periods of heavy rainfall.
Earthquakes, subterranean water flows, pipeline ruptures, and excavations may also trigger landslides. Certain geologic formations are more susceptible to landslides than others. Human activities, including locating development near steep slopes, can increase susceptibility to landslide events. Further, wildfires can denude large areas of hillsides increasing their susceptibility to landslides, debris flows, and mudflows.
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Natural Processes
Natural processes can cause landslides, debris flow, or mudflows or re-activate historical sites with previous events. Seismic tremors can trigger landslides on slopes with a history of landslide movement. Earthquakes can also cause additional failure (lateral spreading) that can occur on moderate slopes above steep streams and riverbanks.
Land Development, Grading, and Excavation
Although landslides including debris flows and mudflows are a natural geologic process, the incidence of landslides and their impacts on people can be exacerbated by human activities.
Grading for road construction and development can increase slope steepness. Grading and excavation can decrease the stability of a hill slope by adding weight to the top of the slope, removing support at the base of the slope, and increasing water content.
Drivers for hillside development include intensification of existing development on residential lots and expansion into undeveloped areas. Intensification consists of additional construction and modification of existing construction or the complete demolition and redevelopment of a residential lot.
Intensification expands developed pad areas into previously “natural” hill slope areas and often involves a corresponding increase in the size and volume of the onsite sewage disposal systems.
Other human activities effecting landslides include: excavation, drainage modifications, groundwater alterations, and changes in vegetation and soil conditions.
Drainage and Groundwater Alterations
Water flowing through or above ground is often the trigger for landslides, debris flows, and mudflows. Any activity that increases the amount of water flowing into landslide-prone slopes can increase the hazard. Broken or leaking water or sewer lines can be especially problematic, as can water retention facilities that direct water onto slopes. Ineffective storm water management and excess runoff can also cause erosion and increase the risk of landslide hazards. Drainage can be affected naturally by the geology and topography of an area; development that results in an increase in impervious surfaces impairs the ability of the land to absorb water and may redirect water to other areas. Channels, streams, ponding, and erosion on slopes all indicate potential slope problems.
Road and driveway drains, gutters, downspouts, and other constructed drainage facilities can concentrate and accelerate flow. Ground saturation and concentrated velocity flow are major causes of slope problems and may trigger landslides. Building Codes require drainage devices to dispose storm runoff away from hillside developments. Storm runoff is designed to be discharged into the storm drain system. Storm drain catch basins are normally maintained by Public Works Departments and are regularly cleaned to prevent any flooding or ponding.
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Changes in Vegetation and Soil Conditions
Wildland fires in hills covered with chaparral are often a precursor to debris flows or mudflows in burned out canyons. The extreme heat of a wildfire can create a soil condition in which the earth becomes impervious to water by creating a waxy-like layer just below the ground surface. Since water cannot be absorbed into the soil, it rapidly accumulates on slopes, often gathering loose particles of soil in to a sheet of mud and debris.
If vegetation on very steep slopes has been removed either by wildfire or man-made development, there is an increased risk. Additionally, changing away from native ground cover plants may increase the risk of landslide, debris flow, or mudflow. For example, if certain vegetation requires heavy watering, soil conditions can change and trigger landslides.
Landslide, Debris Flow, and Mudflow Risk Factors
Locations at risk from landslides, debris flows, or mudflows include areas with one or more of the following conditions:
1. On or close to steep hills;
2. Steep road-cuts or excavations;
3. Existing landslides or places of known historic landslides, debris flows, or mudflows (such sites often have tilted power lines, trees tilted in various directions, cracks in the ground, and irregular-surfaced ground);
4. Steep areas where surface runoff is channeled, such as below culverts, V -shaped valleys, canyon bottoms, and steep stream channels; and
5. Fan-shaped areas of sediment and boulder accumulation at the outlets of canyons.
6. Canyon areas below hillside and mountains that have recently (within 1-6 years) been subjected to a wildland fire.
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Potential Landslide, Debris Flow, and Mudflow Areas
The following potential landslide, debris flow, and mudflow areas have been identified for each city within the LVMCOG (note: no landslide hazards were identified within the City of Hidden Hills). Source: County of Los Angeles, Bureau of Land Management, Esri, HERE, Garmin, INCREMENT P, USGS, METI/NASA, NGA, EPA, USDA | California Geological Survey Agoura Hills
Map 61: Agoura Hills Landslide, Debris Flow, and Mudflow Areas Calabasas
Map 62: Calabasas Landslide, Debris Flow, and Mudflow Areas Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Malibu
Map 63: Malibu Landslide, Debris Flow, and Mudflow Areas Westlake Village
Map 64: Westlake Village Landslide, Debris Flow, and Mudflow Areas Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Estimated Impact of an Event
If landslides, debris flows, or mudflows were to occur, the consequences to local populations and housing could be significant. The table below provides the estimated impact of a disaster using a
0.1% loss baseline.
Category Agoura
Hills Calabasas Hidden Hills Malibu Westlake Village
Impact if a 0.1%
Loss Occurs
Population 20,362 23,410 2,182 10,915 8,081 65
Total OwnerOccupied Units 5,861 6,010 603 3,395 2,492 18 Median Home
Value $857,700 $1,141,600 $2,000,000+ $2,000,000+ $1,029,100 More than
$25,302,240
(based on an average home value of
$1,405,680 x Total Owner
Occupied Units Impacted)
Table 149: Estimated Population and Economic Loss of Multiple Landslides Source U.S. Census Bureau 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate Based on a 0.1% loss projection, approximately 65 people could be displaced or significantly impacted, and approximately 18 homes could be damaged or destroyed resulting in over $25 million in losses based on an average home value of $1,405,680 and damage to 18 owner occupied units (see Community Profile section for population, housing, and economic data).
Impact of Climate Change
Each city within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) are subject to the regional impacts of climate change. Periods of extreme weather causing an increased risk of landslides, debris flows, and mudflows are expected to continue as severe weather patterns occur. Specific areas of concern within the LVMCOG include hillside landslides, debris flows, and mudflow as well as sink holes (all cities) especially near riverine zones (such as in Malibu, Westlake Village, Calabasas, and Agoura Hills). Additionally, a landslide, mudslide, or debris flow damaging local freeways/highways and major transportation routes will cause extensive commuter and commercial disruptions to the entire area. In particular, the City of Malibu could be cut off if Pacific Coast Highway 1 were blocked. Further, smaller roads through the Santa Monica Mountains between Malibu and Agoura Hills, Calabasas, and Westlake Village can become blocked due to downed landslides, mudslides, and debris flows.
Impact of Land Use and Development
City Impact of Land Use and Development
Agoura Hills New development projects within Agoura Hills limited according to the city’s development plan and other restrictions to mitigate the impact of landslides, debris flows, and mudflows. Developed areas located on hillsides may be impacted by landslides and areas in lower elevations may be at greater risk of mudslides and debris flows. Consequently, if a major landslide, debris flow, or mudflow event were to occur, future development densities especially in hillside areas could be further limited to mitigate the impact resulting in a change to local land use plans.
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City Impact of Land Use and Development
Calabasas New development in the city are restricted to areas according to the city’s development plan. Furthermore, properties in Calabasas must comply with drainage and other flood control requirements to mitigate the impacts of landslides, debris flows, and mudflows. Nevertheless, residential areas are located in the Calabasas hillsides and are at greater risk of landslides while low lying areas are subject to debris flows and mudslides. If major landslide, debris flow, or mudflow occurs, future development plans may increase the number of restrictions on new development or redevelopment projects, particularly residential properties in hillside areas and in low lying areas below hillside slopes.
Hidden Hills As a fully developed community there is little room for new construction projects in Hidden Hills so no changes in residential patterns are anticipated if a landslide, debris flow, or mudflow occurs except in the case of loss of buildable land. Additionally, future building restrictions or requirements could be implemented to further mitigate the potential for future damage from landslides, debris flows, or mudflows which will result in a change in land use patterns.
Malibu New development within Malibu is significantly restricted due to coastal constraints. Low lying areas along the riverine areas are subject to debris flows and mudflows while cliffside developments and mountain residential areas are susceptible to landslides. Consequently, structures in these areas (especially cliff side development and those located in isolated roads) may face future restrictions or may be converted to wildland if reconstruction is not feasible.
Westlake Village The Westlake Village development plan as well as local regulations and requirements are in place to mitigate the impact of landslides, debris flows, and mudflows in the area. Regardless, if extreme weather in the area were to occur, riverine areas within Westlake Village and below the reservoir may experience downstream flooding which can cause debris flows and mudflows.
Additionally, hillside areas may be undermined causing landslides. The result could cause changes in land use patterns due to additional development constraints especially those areas located in the hillsides and low lying streams in the city.
Impact of Population Patterns
City Impact of Population Patterns
Agoura Hills In recent years, the population of Agoura Hills has shown a slight decrease.
Although construction in landslide, debris flow, and mudflow prone areas is managed by local regulations and development plans, as new development projects are completed within Agoura Hills, an increase in the population and population densities may be expected. As a consequence if a landslide, debris flow, and mudflow occurs, a number of residents could be impacted. Further, a landslide, debris flow, and mudflow event could result in additional restrictions on rebuilding efforts in hazard prone areas resulting in a change in population patterns.
Calabasas The population of Calabasas has shown a minor decrease since the previous HMP update. Consequently, it is not anticipated that an increase in the risk to local residents due to landslide, debris flow, or mudflow will occur and population patterns are expected to remain unchanged unless areas of the city are deemed to be unusable.
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City Impact of Population Patterns
Hidden Hills Recently, the population of Hidden Hills has shown a slight decrease and residential neighborhoods are well established. Consequently, population patterns are expected to remain unchanged unless areas of the city are deemed to be unusable due to a major landslide, debris flow, or mudflow.
Malibu The population of Malibu has shown a minor decrease since the last census.
Reconstruction of areas damaged by landslide, debris flow, and mudflow may result in a shift in local population densities and could even result in an increase in the amount of wildland areas where future development is prohibited leading to a slight reduction in the local population.
Westlake Village The population of Westlake Village has slightly decreased since the previous HMP update. However as local area development / redevelopment projects occur, there is the potential for an increase in the number of people at risk of a landslide, debris flow, or mudflow especially in areas along hillsides and low lying riverine zones. Consequently, if a severe landslide, debris flow, or mudflow were to occur, future population densities may shift due to additional limits to construction/reconstruction in hazard prone areas.
Risk of Future Landslide, Debris Flow, Mudslide
For the LVMCOG Region, the risk of future climate change events was estimated by the Working Group using the following weighted formula:
Risk = (0.45 x Probability) + (0.30 x Magnitude/Severity) + (0.15 x Warning Time) + (0.10 x Duration) Probability Magnitude / Severity Warning Time Duration
Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Unlikely 1 Negligible 1 Less than 6 hrs 4 Less than 6 hrs 1 Possibly 2 Limited 2 6 to 12 hrs 3 Less than 24 hrs 2
Likely 3 Critical 3 12 to 24 hrs 2 Less than one wk 3
Highly Likely 4 Catastrophic 4 More than 24 hrs 1 More than one wk 4 The result was a climate change risk rating of 6.40 (see Annex C Working Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey for additional details):
Hazard Probability Magnitude Warning
Time Duration Risk
Landslide
(including Debris
Flow and
Mudslide)
3 3.67 20 9.5 6.40
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LANDSLIDE, DEBRIS FLOW, AND MUDFLOW VULNERABILITIES
Landslides, debris flows, and mudflows can result in loss of life and injuries, damage or destroy homes, and cause significant economic harm to the area. Additionally, these events affect a variety of functions including utility services, transportation systems, and critical lifelines. Communities may suffer immediate damages and loss of service. Disruption of infrastructure, roads, and critical facilities may also have a long-term effect on the economy. Utilities, including potable water, wastewater, telecommunications, natural gas, and electric power are all essential to service community needs. Natural gas pipes may also be at risk of breakage from landslides, debris flows, or mudflows.
Roads
Public Works Departments along with other departments within the cities in the Las VirgenesMalibu Region are responsible for cleaning-up slides that inhibit the flow of traffic or are damaging roadways. Public agencies can usually only repair the roadway itself, as well as the areas adjacent to the slide. Individual property damage does not fall under their immediate attention.
Landslide, debris flow, and mudflow hazards can be alleviated by grading slides, by: installing load bearing walls on roadsides and installing new drainage systems on slopes to divert water from potential landslide, debris flow, or mudflow areas. This type of response activity is often the most cost-effective in the short-term but is only temporary.
Lifelines and Critical Facilities
Landslides, debris flows, and mudflows can have direct and indirect impacts on lifelines and critical facilities. Closed transportation arteries may result in an inability of hospitals and other emergency facilities to receive and transport patients as well as obtain emergency supplies. Loss of power and telephone service are also potential consequences of landslide events. Soil erosion in hillside areas can undermine the soil supporting high voltage transmission towers and communication networks. Finally, soil displacement can result in pipeline breaks, further exasperating the potential for landslides.
For the LVMCOG region, specific areas vulnerable to landslides, debris flows, and mudflows include residential areas, businesses, commercial districts, and industrial sites located in or near hillside and mountain areas as well as regions below higher elevations in northern and southern Agoura Hills, southern and western areas of Calabasas, southern and western Hidden Hills, the Santa Monica Mountain areas of Malibu, and southern Westlake Village.
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VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
In Agoura Hills, the elderly and those speaking languages other than English are vulnerable to landslides, debris flows, and mudflows. The elderly may have difficulty evacuating quickly due to mobility issues, and non-English speakers may struggle with understanding evacuation orders and safety instructions, increasing their risk.
Calabasas residents, including those on fixed incomes, transitory workers, homeless individuals, and elderly or disabled residents, face significant risks from landslides and related hazards. Fixedincome residents may lack the resources to repair damage or relocate. Transitory workers and homeless individuals often lack stable housing, making it difficult to find safe shelter. Elderly and disabled residents may experience significant difficulty in evacuating quickly, increasing their risk of harm.
In Hidden Hills, the older population, households with disabilities, and those with limited transportation capabilities are at high risk from landslides, debris flows, and mudflows. Older adults and those with disabilities may find it challenging to evacuate swiftly, and limited transportation options can leave these individuals stranded in hazardous areas. The sudden nature of these events can particularly endanger those with mobility issues.
Malibu's transitory workers, elderly population, lower-income residents, and homeless individuals are particularly vulnerable to landslides and related hazards. Transitory workers and the homeless often lack stable housing, increasing their risk. The elderly may face mobility challenges that hinder quick evacuation, while lower-income residents may lack the financial means to secure temporary housing or rebuild after such events.
In Westlake Village, the elderly, disabled, homeless individuals, and residents speaking a language other than English face significant risks from landslides, debris flows, and mudflows. The elderly and disabled may have difficulty evacuating due to mobility issues, while homeless individuals are highly vulnerable due to lack of shelter and resources. Non-English speakers may miss critical evacuation alerts and safety instructions, increasing their risk.
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LANDSLIDE MITIGATION STRATEGIES
LVMCOG Mitigation Activities
Landslide mitigation activities include current mitigation programs and activities that are being implemented by local or regional organizations. Building and Zoning Codes provide examples of mitigation activities common to all LVMCOG cities.
Building/Zoning Codes
All cities within the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region follow the California Building Code. The CBC requires geotechnical investigation of the potential soil liquefaction and soil strength loss during earthquakes for development in the liquefaction zones. The geotechnical reports are to address potential consequences of any liquefaction and soil strength loss and discuss mitigating measures.
Agoura Hills
The City of Agoura Hills has implemented the following regulations in order to provide better preventive measures for loss of life and property due to landslide:
Requirement for geotechnical and geologic report submittal and review prior to development entitlement.
Requirement for graded slopes to be landscaped for stability.
More restrictive foundation support requirements than the State adopted Building and Residential codes (CBC, CRC).
The following building codes provide examples of how Agoura Hills has enacted preventative measures against loss of life and property because of a landslide.
Agoura Hills Code Section Title
8102 (ppp) Engineered Grading Requirements
8103(qqq) Seismic Design Provisions for Hillside Buildings 8102 (ss) Retaining Walls
8202 (ddd) California Building Code Adoption &
Local Grading Amendments
Maintenance of Protective Structures / Devices /
Installations and Grading
In addition, 9652.5 – Policy: Hillside Management and Significant Ecological Areas specifies:
9652.5. - Policy.
Either a conditional use permit or an architectural review approval shall be obtained before the issuance of any building or grading permit, approval of minor land division or subdivision, importation of fill material for the purpose of altering natural terrain, or commencement of any construction or enlargement of any building or structure on any parcel that is in, or partly in, a hillside area or SEA. In addition to preserving the natural character of the hillsides and valleys within the City of Agoura Hills and ensuring the preservation of the scenic viewshed, hillside development regulations are designed to protect residents from geologic hazards, such as unstable soils and erosion, and the possible loss of life and destruction of property. The intention and policy of the city is to:
1. Encourage minimal grading which relates to the natural contours of the land as opposed to padding or stairstep grading;
2. Require the retention of trees and other vegetation which stabilize hillsides, retain moisture, prevent erosion, and enhance the natural scenic beauty, and, when necessary, require additional landscaping to promote the above;
3. Require immediate planting whenever appropriate to maintain cut and fill slopes;
4. Encourage a variety of building types and design to reduce grading and disturbance of the natural character of the area; and
5. Require the retention of natural landmarks and prominent natural features which enhance the character of a specific area.
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Calabasas
The following building codes provide examples of how Calabasas has enacted preventative measures against loss of life and property due to landslide.
Calabasas Code Section Title
Title 15 – Building and Construction
Chapter 10: Grading Permit Requirements and Procedures
Chapter 11: Grading, Erosion and Sediment Control
Standards
15.11.020 Excavations and Fills
15.11.050 Revegetation and Slope Surface Stabilization
15.11.070 Setbacks for Cut and Fill Slopes
15.11.080 Storm Drainage and Runoff
15.11.100 Erosion and Sediment
15.16 Flood Hazard Prevention
In addition, the City of Calabasas has enacted specific requirements for land use and development under Title 17 of the Calabasas Municipal Code. Regulations related to landslide mitigation include the following:
17.18.020 - Old Topanga (-OT) overlay zone.
A. Purpose and Applicability. The Old Topanga (-OT) overlay zone is applied to the Old Topanga area of the city. This is a mountainous area where existing parcels were created before modern zoning and subdivision regulations required appropriate relationships between parcel size, terrain, and building size.
The intent of this zoning district is to:
1. Ensure that the scale of residential development is in reasonable proportion to the size of the building site and its environmental constraints, including slope and vegetation;
2. Provide standards for appropriate development in relation to the high fire hazards, flood hazards, access problems, and steep slopes of the areas to which this overlay zoning district may be applied; and
3. Ensure that development is consistent with the hillside and ridgeline regulations in Article III and the grading ordinance in Title 15.
17.18.025 - Calabasas Highlands (CH) Overlay Zone.
A. Purpose and Applicability. The Calabasas Highlands (-CH) overlay zone is applied to the Calabasas Highlands area of the city. These are mountainous areas where existing parcels were created before modern zoning and subdivision regulations required appropriate relationships between parcel size, terrain, and building size. The intent of this zoning district is to:
1. Ensure that the scale of residential development is in reasonable proportion to the size of the building site and its environmental constraints, including slope and vegetation;
2. Provide standards for appropriate development in relation to the high fire hazards, flood hazards, access problems, and steep slopes of the areas to which this overlay zoning district may be applied; and
3. Ensure that development is consistent with the hillside and ridgeline regulations of Article III in this title and the grading ordinance in Title 15.
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Hidden Hills
Although the risk of landslide in Hidden Hills is low, the following building codes have been implemented as preventative measures to protect against the loss of life and property due to a landslide event.
Hidden Hills Code Section Title
Title 5 – Land Use and Development
Chapter 5-9-3: General Provisions
(8) Flood-Related Erosion-Prone Area
Chapter 5-5B-4: Foundations on Expansive Soil
Chapter 5-5B-6: Excavation and Grading
J112.2: Geologic Hazard
J113: Geology and Engineering Report
Chapter 5-9-5: Provisions for Flood Hazard Reduction
As part of implementation of building codes to mitigate the risk of landslides, the City of Hidden Hills has an ongoing comprehensive hill slope management program.
Malibu
The City of Malibu Local Coastal Program Land Use Plan (LUP) adopted by the California Coastal Commission (9/13/2002) includes policies to minimize the hazards associated with shoreline and bluff development including slope stability and landslide potential in hillside areas. Specific policies related to landslide mitigation include:
C. Land Use Plan Policies
4.1 The City of Malibu and the Santa Monica Mountains coastal zone contains areas subject to hazards that present substantial risks to life and property. These areas require additional development controls to minimize risks, and include, but shall not be limited to, the following:
Low Slope Stability & Landslide/Rockfall Potential: hillside areas that have the potential to slide, fail, or collapse.
Fault Rupture: the Malibu Coast-Santa Monica Fault Zone.
Seismic Ground Shaking: shaking induced by seismic waves traveling through an area as a result of an earthquake on a regional geologic fault.
Flood prone areas most likely to flood during major storms.
Liquefaction: areas where water-saturated materials (including soil, sediment, and certain types of volcanic deposits) can potentially lose strength and fail during strong ground shaking.
Liquefaction/Flood prone areas where saturated sediments lie in flood plains.
Tsunami: shoreline areas subject to inundation by a sea wave generated by local or distant earthquake, submarine landslide, subsidence, or volcanic eruption.
Wave Action: shoreline areas subject to damage from wave activity during storms.
Fire Hazard: areas subject to major wildfires classified in Fire Zone 4 or in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
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1. General Development
4.2 All new development shall be sized, designed and sited to minimize risks to life and property from geologic, flood, and fire hazard.
4.3 Information should be provided to the public concerning hazards and appropriate means of minimizing the harmful effects of natural disasters upon persons and property relative to siting, design and construction.
4.4 On ancient landslides, unstable slopes and other geologic hazard areas, new development shall only be permitted where an adequate factor of safety can be provided, consistent with the applicable provisions of Chapter 9 of the certified Local Implementation Plan.
4.5 Applications for new development, where applicable, shall include a geologic/soils/geotechnical study that identifies any geologic hazards affecting the proposed project site, any necessary mitigation measures, and contains a statement that the project site is suitable for the proposed development and that the development will be safe from geologic hazard. Such reports shall be signed by a licensed Certified Engineering Geologist (CEG) or Geotechnical Engineer (GE) and subject to review and approval by the City Geologist.
4.6 The remediation or stabilization of landslides that affect existing structures or that threaten public health or safety may be permitted. Alternative remediation or stabilization techniques shall be analyzed to determine the least environmentally damaging alternative.
Maximum feasible mitigation shall be incorporated into the project in order to minimize adverse impacts to resources.
4.7 Hillside Management Program requirements shall be applicable to proposed development on steep slopes.
4.8 Grading and/or development-related vegetation clearance shall be prohibited where the slope exceeds 40 percent (2.5:1), except that driveways and/or utilities may be located on such slopes, where there is no less environmentally damaging feasible alternative means of providing access to a building site, provided that the building site is determined to be the preferred alternative and consistent with all other policies of the LCP.
4.9 Buildings within flood prone areas subject to inundation or erosion shall be prohibited unless no alternative building site exists on the property and proper mitigation measures are provided to minimize or eliminate risks to life and property from flood hazard.
4.10 New development shall provide adequate drainage and erosion control facilities that convey site drainage in a non-erosive manner in order to minimize hazards resulting from increased runoff, erosion and other hydrologic impacts to streams.
4.11 New development involving a structure dependent on a wastewater disposal system shall utilize secondary treatment, at a minimum, and evapotranspiration waste disposal systems or other innovative measures, where feasible.
4.12 Land divisions, including lot line adjustments, shall be prohibited unless all proposed parcels can be demonstrated to be safe from flooding, erosion, and geologic hazards and will provide a safe, legal, all-weather access road(s), which can be constructed consistent with all policies of the LCP.
4.13 Land Divisions including lot line adjustments shall be prohibited unless all proposed parcels and access roads are found to comply with all applicable fire safety regulations and all required approvals are obtained.
4.14 New development shall be prohibited on property or in areas where such development would present an extraordinary risk to life and property due to an existing or demonstrated potential public health and safety hazard.
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4.15 Existing, lawfully established structures, which do not conform to the provisions of the LCP, may be maintained and/or repaired provided that such repair and maintenance do not increase the extent of nonconformity of the structure. Except as provided below, additions and improvements to such structures may be permitted provided that such additions or improvements comply with the current standards and policies of the LCP and do not increase the extent of nonconformity of the structure. Substantial additions, demolition and reconstruction, that result in demolition and/or replacement of more than 50% of the exterior walls shall not be permitted unless such structures are brought into conformance with the policies and standards of the LCP.
In addition to the above referenced policies, the City of Malibu Zoning and Building Codes address development regarding grading, drainage, general building guidelines on slopes, as well as Geotechnical Engineering Standards. The following codes are implemented as preventative measures for loss of life and property, in addition to maintaining standards.
Malibu Code Section Title
Title 17 Zoning, Chapter 17.40 Property
Development and Design Standards Slope and Set Back Requirements Title 26 Building Code, Appendix J
Grading
J101.2: Flood Hazard Areas
J101.5: Protection of Utilities
J101.7: Storm Water Control Measures
J103.1: Permits Required
J104.2.1: Grading Designation
J104.2.3: Engineered Grading Requirements
J109: Drainage and Terracing
J110: Slope Planting and Erosion Control
Title 26 Building Code, Chapter 1
Administration
Section 111 Engineering Geology and Soils Engineering
Reports
Generally, the ordinance requires slope stability analyses for proposed developments with slopes steeper than 4:1 (horizontal:vertical). More detailed surface and subsurface investigations are warranted for slopes of 4:1 or flatter if indicated by engineering and geologic hazards.30 This may include soils, vegetation, geologic formations, and drainage patterns. Site evaluations may also occur where stability might be lessened by proposed grading/filling or land clearing.
Requirements for grading and erosion control are included in the Plan Check Submittal Checklist.
Additionally, the City of Malibu has an Information Bulletin regarding Erosion Control, distributed to residents during heavy storms.
30 City of Malibu, Guidelines for the Preparation of Engineering Geology and geotechnical Engineering Reports and Procedures for Report Submittal, 2013
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These City of Malibu’s goals and standards mitigate the impact of landslides, debris flows, and mudflows by managing hillside development, building, and construction including slope stabilization and set-back requirements. These standards enables the city to mitigate the potential landslides, debris flows, and mudflow which can cause loss of life, injuries, and property loss including damage to critical infrastructure and utilities. Furthermore, the socially vulnerable benefit since the elderly, disabled, very young and fixed income and financially underserved individuals may not have the resources or ability to recover from a catastrophic event.
Figure 115: Malibu Plan Check
Submittal Checklist - Grading
Figure 114: Malibu Erosion Control
Information Bulletin
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Westlake Village
The City of Westlake Village has identified areas in the city that may have unstable slopes.
Engineering/geology soils investigations are required prior to hillside development in unstable slope areas in order to mitigate the loss of property or life due to a landslide. Local building codes and regulations are managed by the Building and Safety Division of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, which serves under contract as the City’s Building and Safety Department. The following building codes are implemented as preventative measures for loss of life and property due to a landslide event.
Westlake Village Code
Section Title
Building Code Chapter 8.5 Floodplain
Management 8.5.015: Methods of Reducing Flood Losses
Article 9 Zoning Regulations Chapter 9.17 Hillside Development Specifically, Westlake Village Zoning Regulations require a Soils and Geologic Report when applying for a new construction project grading permit.
9.17.050 Site Planning Standards, E. Grading Standards
A detailed Soils and Geologic Report shall accompany each Grading Permit application. The report shall address such items as the recommended maximum slope angles for natural and manmade cuts and fill slopes, the effect of saturation or supersaturation of soils due to over-watering (irrigation), seismic safety, liquefaction, and soil or rock erosion. The foregoing items are minimum requirements for the report. The report shall address any other items necessary, in the professional opinion of the soils and/or geologic engineer, and as required by the City.
The City of Westlake Village’s goals, policies, objectives, and programs are designed to mitigate the impact of landslides, debris flows, and mudflows by requiring standards for hillside development, building, and construction. By enforcing these standards, the city reduces the potential for loss of life, injuries, and property loss including damage to critical infrastructure and utilities. These efforts benefit the socially vulnerable such as the elderly, disabled, very young and fixed income or financially underserved individuals who may be at risk of loss of life, injury, and property damage/destruction - especially in areas along hillside slopes and below the city’s hilltops.
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SECTION 11. WINDSTORM
THE NATURE OF THE WINDSTORM THREAT
Severe windstorms pose a significant risk to life and property by creating conditions that disrupt essential systems such as public utilities, telecommunications, and transportation routes. High winds have the potential to cause damage to local homes and businesses from falling trees and debris. In addition, windstorms increase the risk of wildfire as the moisture content decreases in brush and vegetation on hillsides, especially in urban interface areas.
HISTORICAL RECORD OF WIND EVENTS
History of Severe Winds in Southern California
The National Weather Service has documented the following severe wind events in Southern California since 2014.
Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
12.31.2022 to
1.1.2023
Strong winds accompanied a winter storm with
gusts over 60 mph on ridgetops and adjacent desert
slopes. The highest measured gust was 79 mph at
Toro Peak. Gusts near the coast reached 35 to 40
mph.
Several trees at the coast were toppled,
causing damage.
11.25.2022 This Thanksgiving, an upper low diving south through the Southwest propelled offshore winds,
with many gusts 60 to 77 mph in the foothills. Sill
Hill was the extreme outlier, achieving 88 mph.
11.15 to 16.2022 Offshore winds exceeded 80 mph for a few locations in the foothills of the San Bernardino, Santa Ana,
and San Diego County Mountains. Many more spots
exceeded 60 mph.
11.8 to 9.2022 A deep trough of low pressure brought strong winds to the region. Winds gusted to over 70 mph in the
mountains, downing trees and triggering minor
power outages. An impressive gust of 101 mph was
recorded at Burns Canyon (east side of San
Bernardino Mountains).
Trees were downed in the mountains and
power outages were incurred.
9.9.2022 Remnants of Tropical Cyclone Kay brought strong, easterly winds early in the morning. Observed wind
gusts in the mountains and foothills ranged from 70
to 95 mph. One gust from Cuyamaca peak came in
at 727 a.m. and registered 109 mph, which was
verified to be the strongest measured wind gust ever
observed in Southern California. Other gusts: Big
Black Mountain 96 mph, Sill Hill 91 mph, Otay
Mountain 81 mph, Mt. Laguna Observatory 80 mph.
Thankfully, wind gusts in the populated areas were
not nearly as strong.
1.21 to 22.2023 Strong Santa Anas peaked in the foothills of the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains and adjacent
valleys ranged from 50 to 80+ mph.
Numerous trees and power poles in Upland,
Ontario and Claremont were downed,
crushing several vehicles, damaging homes
and knocking out power.
12.14.2021 Winter storm winds on the lee slopes of the
mountains reached over 80 mph, while coastal areas
experienced gusts over 40 mph.
Trees and power lines were damaged.
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
2.28.2021 A great month for offshore winds as more Santa Anas developed. Fremont Canyon had the top gust
at 81 mph, with Fontana and Jurupa Valley each
reporting 60-mph gusts.
2.25.2021 After several offshore wind events during February, a particularly strong Santa Ana blew. Gusts of 80to
90 mph were measured in the foothills north of San
Bernardino, with gusts of 75 mph at Fremont
Canyon and 72 mph in Fontana and Jurupa Valley.
A few trees in Devore were knocked down
and a big rig tipped over in the Fontana area.
Wind spread a fire in Bloomington.
1.28 to 29.2021 A powerful winter storm produced strong southerly winds of up to 80 mph in the mountains of Los
Angeles and Ventura Counties.
1.19.2020 Very strong and gusty Santa Ana winds of up to 99 mph hit the coastal hills of Ventura and Los Angeles
counties.
Numerous small trees and branches were
downed.
10.26.2020 A strong offshore wind, a “cool”
Santa Ana, produced many exceeding
70 mph and a top gust of 88 mph at
Fremont Canyon.
The winds toppled big rig trucks and downed
mature trees in the northern Inland Empire.
The dry winds also contributed to spreading
two fire starts, the Blue Ridge and Silverado
fires in eastern Orange County.
6.8.2020 Strong and gusty northerly winds impacted the
mountains of Santa
Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles counties. Wind
gusts up to around
75 mph were reported in some areas.
2.25 to 26.2020 Strong surface high pressure over
the Great Basin brought intense east
to northeast winds to Southern
California. The strongest winds were in the foothills
of San Diego County where a peak wind gust of 106
mph from a mountain wave was recorded at Sill Hill.
This is believed to be the strongest wind gust ever
measured in San Diego County. Many other
mountain locations reported wind gusts of 65-75
mph.
Two tractor trailers were overturned on I-8 in
San Diego County, and many trees fell due to
high wind.
2.10 to 11.2020 A wind storm from the north produced peak wind gusts of 60-70 mph in the wind-prone passes and
canyons.
Winds overturned tractor trailers and downed
trees.
1.29 to 30.2020 Strong offshore winds struck the region, with gusts reaching 70 mph.
Many trees were downed on homes and cars,
and one home caught fire when a tree fell on
it.
12.26.2019 A severe squall struck the coast and valley areas during the morning. Some wind gusts exceeded 40
mph.
The winds damaged property and felled trees
in Ventura and National City.
11.28.2019 A squall line of strong winds and thunderstorms came ashore in San Diego County with wind gusts
40 to 50 mph.
Roof and tree damage was incurred in
Carlsbad.
10.30 to 31.2019 Cool Santa Ana winds impacted the region.
Northeasterly wind gusts up to 68 mph were
reported across the mountains and valleys of
Ventura and Los Angeles counties.
The Maria Fire started near Santa Paula in the
critically dry vegetation, and burned into
early November, eventually burning 9,999
acres.
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
10.10.2019 Several episodes of Santa Ana winds started on this day and continued through 10.24. Top wind gusts
reached 60 to 80 mph. Relative humidity was near
zero percent for several locations on several days
during this period.
Numerous fires broke out across Southern
California. The Saddleridge Fire would
eventually burn over 8,700 acres in the
foothills of the San Fernando Valley near
Sylmar. Over 100 residences were either
damaged or destroyed. There was one death
due to cardiac arrest.
3.6.2019 A storm system brought strong winds to the
mountains and deserts. A wind gust of 98 mph was
clocked at Burns Canyon.
1.21.2019 A period of Santa Ana winds immediately followed an inside slider, and brought strong winds to the
region, especially the mountains. The peak observed
wind gust was 84 mph at Burns Canyon.
Two people were killed when a large tree fell
on their home in Point Loma.
10.15.2018 A deep low pressure axis extending across Southern California produced strong region-wide Santa Ana
winds. The strongest gust reached 82 mph in
Fremont Canyon, with widespread gusts above 40-
50 mph reported in valley locations.
In Orange County, over 200 trees were
downed and one person was killed when a
tree fell onto their vehicle.
12.4.2017 Strong sundowner and Santa Ana winds persisted across Southern California for two weeks. Northerly
wind gusts between 65 and 85 mph were reported at
a few locations sometime during the two weeks.
On this day, the Thomas fire sparked to life
just north of Santa Paula. Over the next few
weeks it burned over southwest Ventura and
southeast Santa Barbara Counties and
became California’s largest wildfire, burning
281,893 acres. It destroyed at least 1,063
structures and damaged 280 others. One
firefighter and one civilian died.
3.30.2017 A trough of low pressure brought strong winds that produced mountain waves in the deserts. Numerous
wind gusts in the 60-70 mph range were reported in
Palm Springs and Borrego Springs.
Winds downed trees and power lines in Palm
Springs, leaving more than 2,200 without
power. Power line damage was also reported
in Borrego Springs.
2.18.2017 A strong cold front swept into the coast, noteworthy for the strong prefrontal southerly winds. A gust of
67 mph was measured at Laguna Beach.
Significant tree damage was incurred near the
coast and in the valleys.
1.9.2017 A strong mountain wave produced an impressive
wind gust of 107 mph at Burns Canyon (east side of
San Bernardino Mountains).
8.16.2016 Gusty winds and low humidity swept through the Cajon Pass.
Winds fanned the Blue Cut Fire into a fury on
this day. The fire spread rapidly forcing
84,000 mandatory evacuations and
threatening 35,000 homes. Numerous roads
were closed, including I-15 in both directions
for two days. The fire destroyed 105 homes,
and 313 smaller structures, and scorched
36,274 acres before it was extinguished.
3.28.2016 Mountain wave activity produced winds in excess of 50 mph that generated a dust storm with near zero
visibility along Highway 247 in Lucerne Valley.
A multicar pileup ensued, involving more
than a dozen vehicles and injuring 28 people.
1.31.2016 A powerful storm with a surface low that rapidly deepened in the Southern California Bight brought
an exceptionally strong cold front with widespread
damaging wind gusts of 40-70 mph from the coast
to the mountains. A broken line of thunderstorms
formed along the front and combined with post
frontal winds.
Over 500 downed trees caused extensive
damage. One woman was killed and two were
injured when a pine tree eight feet in diameter
crushed four cars in Pacific Beach.
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
1.5 to 7.2016 A series of winter storms brought strong storm winds exceeding 60 mph across some coastal and
valley areas.
Damage resulted mainly from
thunderstorm wind gusts.
5.12 to 5.15.2014 A strong late-season Santa Ana wind event raked the region. Winds gusted to 40 to 45 mph in parts
of the coast and valleys, and 60 to 80 mph in the
foothills.
The winds knocked down many trees and
power lines, and blew off some roof tiles.
14 fires erupted in San Diego County,
killing one, burning over 27,000 acres and
causing more than $50 million in property
damage. The Poinsettia fire in Carlsbad and
the Cocos Fire in San Marcos damaged
homes.
4.30 to 5.1.2014 This strongest and most widespread offshore wind event in years occurred very late in the season.
Gusts reached as high as 100 mph at Sill Hill near
Cuyamaca Peak. Numerous other stations
measured speeds that exceeded 60 mph.
Numerous trees and power lines were
downed in the San Diego County interior.
A Garden Grove school incurred roof
damage. The Etiwanda fire near Rancho
Cucamonga broke out.
2.28 to 3.1.2014 A strong storm hit Southern California with westerly winds. A report of a 102 mph wind gust
came from the Bear Mountain ski resort weather
equipment on 2.28. Thunderstorm wind gusts.
Numerous large trees and power poles
toppled, as well as damage at John Wayne
Airport. Thunderstorms on the 2.28
downed several trees and damaged power
lines and other structures.
Table 150: A History of Significant Weather Events in Southern California - Organized by Weather Type (Feb 2023) – From 2014 to 2023
Windstorm Risk in the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region
Overall the risk of strong wind in the Las Virgenes-Malibu region is low with an annualized frequency less than one per the National Risk Index. Regardless, strong winds cannot be completely disregarded especially since annual Santa Ana winds result in local damage as well as an increase in the risk of severe wildfire.
Map 65: Annualized Frequency of Strong Wind National Risk Index Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Disasters Declarations and Emergency Proclamations
FEMA disaster declarations allow state, tribal, and local governments to access federal aid for disaster response and recovery when overwhelmed. Similarly, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) issues proclamations to mobilize state resources and streamline procedures.
FEMA Disasters Declarations
No disaster declarations.
Cal OES Open State of Emergency Proclamations
Proclamation Date: 9/16/22 || Tropical Storm Kay
Tropical storm conditions brought heavy rainfall and strong winds across southern California, causing flooding and debris flows. The storm system, including debris flows, also damaged or destroyed roads in Imperial, Inyo, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties.
Proclamation Date: 1/4/23 || December 2022-January 2023 Storms Severe winter storms struck California causing high winds, and expected flooding, and widespread power outages. This declaration was a hazard to the entire state of California.
STAKEHOLDER INPUT AND PARTICIPATION
To identify the threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences of a major windstorm on the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region, each member of the Planning Group which included representatives from the cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village provided their input during planning meetings (see Annex B: Meeting Agendas and Attendees) and followup discussions. Specific topics of discussion included if any changes to the hazard priorities have changed since the previous HMP, how changes in the community have impacted the risk of each hazard, and what new mitigation actions can be taken. In addition, each member of the Planning Group as well as members of the public provided the input via online surveys (see Annex C:
Community Disaster Preparedness and Risk Survey, Annex D: Planning Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey, and Annex E: Planning and Public Involvement).
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CAUSES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF WINDSTORMS IN THE LAS VIRGENES-MALIBU REGION
Windstorm events in the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region can be caused by short term, topographically influenced, high wind gusts as well as extended duration Santa Ana wind conditions. “Santa Ana Winds” typically occur between October and February. Santa Ana winds are characterized by strong dry offshore winds originating from the Great Basin and Upper Mojave Desert. Wind temperatures can range from extremely hot to cold. Damage can occur directly from the high wind speeds generated or from the secondary effects of very low humidity, which increases the threat of wildfires, particularly in the fire-prone chaparral country.
WINDSTORM HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Given the location and topography of the area, severe windstorms are a possibility. While the historic occurrence of these events on the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region has been minimal (when they occur) these events do pose a threat to life, property, utility delivery systems, infrastructure, and transportation. Furthermore, if a severe windstorm results in a prolonged utility disruption, it may be necessary to utilize private and public resources to aid in the care and sheltering of displaced residents. High winds also increase the threat posed by wildfires and can lead to major losses to the region. In addition, the economic impact of providing shelter, conducting repairs, and the disruption to local businesses can result in economic losses to the entire area. Finally, a severe windstorm can cause the loss of historic trees in the area and require the services of certified arborists.
The risk of trees falling is one of the more significant hazards resulting from high wind events.
The leafy canopy and structural elements of a tree crown present a drag type barrier to winds.
Trees naturally minimize wind drag through the re-orientation of leaves and through the independent motion of limbs and branches, thus reducing the transfer of uniform sway motion forces to the trunk. The Beaufort Wind Scale (BWS) specifically notes problems with trees as wind speeds increase. The BWS references the likelihood of whole tree motion as wind speeds exceed 32 miles per hour (MPH), twig breakage at 39 MPH and whole tree wind-throw as wind speeds exceed 55 MPH. The susceptibility of trees to wind-throw can be influenced by the general structural condition of the trees, the location of the trees in reference to wind patterns and the level and frequency of pruning maintenance.
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The following chart depicts the Beaufort scale which is used to estimate wind strengths.
Beaufort
Force
Speed
(MPH) Wind Description - State of Sea - Effects on Land 0 Less 1 Calm - Mirror-like - Smoke rises vertically
1 1-3 Light - Air Ripples look like scales; No crests of foam - Smoke drift shows direction of wind, but wind vanes do not
2 4-7 Light Breeze - Small but pronounced wavelets; Crests do not break - Wind vanes move; Leaves rustle; You can feel wind on the face
3 8-12 Gentle Breeze - Large Wavelets; Crests break; Glassy foam; A few whitecaps - Leaves and small twigs move constantly; Small, light flags are extended 4 13-18 Moderate Breeze - Longer waves; Whitecaps - Wind lifts dust and loose paper; Small branches move
5 19-24 Fresh Breeze - Moderate, long waves; Many whitecaps; Some spray - Small trees with leaves begin to move
6 25-31 Strong Breeze - Some large waves; Crests of white foam; Spray - Large branches move; Telegraph wires whistle; Hard to hold umbrellas
7 32-38 Near Gale - White foam from breaking waves blows in streaks with the wind - Whole trees move; Resistance felt walking into wind
8 39-46 Gale - Waves high and moderately long; Crests break into spin drift, blowing foam in well-marked streaks - Twigs and small branches break off trees; Difficult to walk 9 47-54 Strong Gale - High waves with wave crests that tumble; Dense streaks of foam in wind; Poor visibility from spray - Slight structural damage 10 55-63 Storm - Very high waves with long, curling crests; Sea surface appears white from blowing foam; Heavy tumbling of sea; Poor visibility - Trees broken or uprooted; Considerable structural damage
11 64-73 Violent Storm - Waves high enough to hide small and medium sized ships; Sea covered with patches of white foam; Edges of wave crests blown into froth; Poor visibility - Seldom experienced inland; Considerable structural damage 12 >74 Hurricane - Sea white with spray. Foam and spray render visibility almost nonexistent – Widespread damage. Very rarely experienced on land.
Table 151: Beaufort Scale
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Estimated Impact of an Event
If a severe windstorm were to occur, the consequences to local populations and housing could be significant. The table below provides the estimated impact of a disaster using a 1% loss baseline for the impact to the total population of the LVMCOG and to Owner-Occupied housing units.
Category Agoura
Hills Calabasas Hidden Hills Malibu Westlake Village
Impact if a 1% Loss
Occurs
Population 20,362 23,410 2,182 10,915 8,081 640
Total OwnerOccupied Units 5,861 6,010 603 3,395 2,492 184 Median Home
Value $857,700 $1,141,600 $2,000,000+ $2,000,000+ $1,029,100 More than $258M
(based on an average home value of
$1,405,680 x Total Owner
Occupied Units Impacted)
Table 152: Estimated Population and Economic Loss of Multiple Landslides Source U.S. Census Bureau 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate Based on a 1% loss projection, more than 640 people could be significantly impacted, and an estimated 184 homes damaged resulting in over $258 million in losses for owner-occupied housing units (see Community Profile section for population, housing, and economic data).
Las Virgenes-Malibu Windstorm Probability
According to the FEMA National Risk Index, the Los Angeles region records the chance of a windstorm as 0.2 events per year.
Impact of Climate Change
Climate change has a regional impact. As a result, all cities within the LVMCOG are subject to windstorms though wind patterns in Malibu may differ somewhat from Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, and Westlake Village due to Malibu’s coastal location. The impact of severe windstorms in the region will have a similar impact to all cities due to wind caused events such as power outages, property damage, and an increase in the intensity and length of wind driven wildfires (which are exasperated by sporadic high rainfall years leading to increased vegetation growth followed by lengthy periods of drought).
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Impact of Land Use and Development
City Impact of Land Use and Development
Agoura Hills During severe windstorms, developed areas located in canyon areas and hillsides may be at greater risk of wind driven structural damage as well as wildfires. However, it is not anticipated that future development densities and/or local land use plans will change since building codes require minimum standards to mitigate the threat of wind driven damage. Nonetheless, a greater emphasis on regulations related to brush clearance to prevent catastrophic wildfires could occur.
Calabasas Structures located in canyon areas and hillsides may be at greater risk of wind driven damage and wildfires though it is not anticipated that future development densities and/or local land use plans since local building standards and codes are designed to mitigate the threat of wind damage. Nevertheless, a greater emphasis on regulations related to brush clearance to prevent catastrophic wildfires could be implemented.
Hidden Hills Severe windstorms are not expected to result in changes in residential patterns or land use in Hidden Hills. However, increased monitoring and control of tree management and brush clearance could be implemented. Additionally, structures experiencing roof damage may require retrofitting to meet the latest build code.
Malibu During severe windstorms, developed areas located in canyon areas and hillsides may be at greater risk of wind driven structural damage as well as wildfires. In addition, coastal zones are subject to wind driven high surf causing erosion and flood inundation. Regardless, it is not anticipated that future development densities and/or local land use plans will change since building codes require minimum standards to mitigate the threat of wind driven damage and development along the coast is strictly managed. However, a greater emphasis on regulations related to brush clearance to prevent catastrophic wildfires could occur and additional coastal restrictions could be considered.
Westlake Village Developed areas located in canyon areas and hillsides in Westlake Village may be at greater risk of wind driven structural damage as well as wildfires.
However, it is not anticipated that future development densities and/or local land use plans will change since building codes require minimum standards to mitigate the threat of wind driven damage. Regardless, a greater emphasis on regulations related to brush clearance to prevent catastrophic wildfires could occur as well as additional monitoring of tree management programs.
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Impact of Population Patterns
City Impact of Population Patterns
Agoura Hills Severe windstorms are sporadic and are not expected to cause significant changes to the population of Agoura Hills. The exception would be in the case of wind driven wildfires that could impact hillside areas of the city and downslope communities subject to mudflows - resulting in temporary changes to population patterns and densities.
Calabasas Windstorms are not anticipated to significantly impact population patterns in the City of Calabasas . However, as with other local communities, the secondary effects of severe wind such as a major wildfire could temporarily change population densities in areas destroyed by fire or at risk of future mudflows.
Hidden Hills Population patterns are expected to remain unchanged due to severe wind.
Secondarily, if a wind driven wildfire were to occur in the City of Hidden Hills, a short term change in population may occur but it is anticipated that the rebuilt areas would return to current levels.
Malibu Windstorms are not expected to change population patterns in the City of Malibu.
However, severe windstorms could result in wind driven wildfires which could cause a temporary reduction of the population as structures are rebuilt.
Additionally, wind driven high surf in coastal zones could cause damage but while these areas include some single family residences, large parts are open space beach and parking as well as commercial or short term rental properties.
Westlake Village Severe windstorms are generally irregular events and are not expected to cause significant changes to the population of Westlake Village. However, short term effects could include wind driven flooding along the reservoir and an increased risk of wildfires. Though damaged areas can be expected to be repaired so population patterns should return to normal.
Risk of Future Severe Windstorm
For the LVMCOG Region, the risk of future climate change events was estimated by the Working Group using the following weighted formula:
Risk = (0.45 x Probability) + (0.30 x Magnitude/Severity) + (0.15 x Warning Time) + (0.10 x Duration) Probability Magnitude / Severity Warning Time Duration
Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Unlikely 1 Negligible 1 Less than 6 hrs 4 Less than 6 hrs 1 Possibly 2 Limited 2 6 to 12 hrs 3 Less than 24 hrs 2
Likely 3 Critical 3 12 to 24 hrs 2 Less than one wk 3
Highly Likely 4 Catastrophic 4 More than 24 hrs 1 More than one wk 4 The result was a climate change risk rating of 3.93 (see Annex C Working Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey for additional details):
Hazard Probability Magnitude Warning
Time Duration Risk
Severe
Windstorm 4.33 3.67 3 4.33 3.93
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WINDSTORM VULNERABILITIES
Windstorms can result in damage to structures, disrupt utilities, and require emergency tree services (i.e. limb failures, clearance of private property trees fallen into roadways, etc.). With regards to wind related damage to structures; the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region has not experienced significant damage due to windstorms during the last decade. Nevertheless, the impact of a severe windstorm can be significant and mitigation planning can reduce losses if an event were to occur.
Windstorms can cause the failure of critical infrastructure such as wind-driven power outages, building damage. Such critical infrastructure failures may require days or weeks to repair. In addition, the impact to business and industry can result in immediate and long term economic loss and equipment may be damaged resulting in increased recovery costs to residents, businesses, commercial, and industrial organizations. Finally, vulnerable populations dependent on electrical power for medical devices and air conditioning or heating are at risk as are those dependent on local jobs for income. Areas especially vulnerable to severe wind include hillside and mountain areas as well as mountain passes in northern and southern Agoura Hills, southern and western areas of Calabasas, southern and western Hidden Hills, the Santa Monica Mountain areas of Malibu, and southern Westlake Village. Specific windstorm related issues are outlined below.
Life and Property
Detached tree limbs and building elements present a hazard to life and property as well as infrastructure. Furthermore, utility providers and emergency services can be overwhelmed during a major event. At risk populations include assisted care facilities and home-bound residents that are dependent on electrical power (see Utilities and Infrastructure section below). For example, in December 2011, the City of Pasadena, California experienced a severe windstorm with reported gusts near 100 MPH. The resulting power outages and debris impacted residents for weeks.
Utilities and Infrastructure
Windstorms can cause structural damage to buildings and other critical infrastructure. Overhead electrical and telephone lines are particularly vulnerable to damage from wind and debris as are microwave and satellite facilities. High winds commonly occur during winter storms and can cause trees to bend, sag, or fail (tree limbs or entire trees) which then come into contact with nearby power lines. Fallen trees can cause short-circuiting and conductor overloading. Wind-induced damage to the power system causes power outages to customers, incurs cost to make repairs, and in some cases can lead to ignitions that start wild land fires. In order to prepare for such events, Southern California Edison (SCE) has developed its own Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Transportation
Windblown debris, tree limbs and wind thrown trees can damage traffic control apparatus, block roadways, damage vehicles, and cause extreme traffic congestion - impeding emergency and vehicles and hampering repair efforts.
Increased Fire Threat
The Las Virgenes-Malibu Region is subject to Santa Ana Winds with regards to their impact on fire conditions. Winds can serve as a catalyst in the canyons to spread fire at a rapid rate.
Prolonged winds during the warmer months of the year can decrease vegetation moisture levels and increase the ignition potential in dry underbrush. When urban/wildland interface fires occur, Santa Ana Wind conditions can drive flames and increase the spread speed and severity of the fire.
This is a significant concern near homes, especially where brush clearance has been lax.
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During high wind periods, there is also a threat of downed power lines causing wildfires. In response, SCE began a public notice campaign to reiterate its policy that utility power may be shut-off during high fire risk periods when extreme weather threatens the power lines.
In addition, on April, 14,2021 Southern California Edison provided a presentation to the Agoura Hills Council meeting to provide an overview of its Vegetation Management Program. The purpose of the program is to reduce of wildfire due to downed power lines during severe weather events such as severe winds.
Figure 116: SCE Public Safety Power Shutoff Process
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Santa Ana Winds
“Santa Ana Winds” are generally defined as warm,
dry winds that blow from the east or northeast
(offshore). Commonly, Santa Ana winds develop
when a region of high pressure builds over the Great
Basin (the high plateau east of the Sierra Mountains
and west of the Rocky Mountains including most of
Nevada and Utah). These regional winds typically
occur from October to March and, according to most
accounts, are named either for the Santa Ana River
Valley where they originate or for the Santa Ana
Canyon, southeast of Los Angeles, where they pick
up speed. These winds occur below the passes and
canyons of the coastal ranges of Southern California
and in the Los Angeles basin.
The complex topography of Southern California
combined with various atmospheric conditions
creates numerous scenarios that may cause
widespread or isolated Santa Ana events. Santa Ana
winds often blow with exceptional speed in the Santa
Ana Canyon. Forecasters at the National Weather
Service offices in Oxnard and San Diego usually
place speed minimums on these winds and reserve
the use of "Santa Ana" for winds greater than 25
knots 28.8 mph). These winds accelerate to speeds of
35 knots (40.3 mph) as they move through the
canyons and passes, with gusts up to 50 to 60 knots
(57.5 mph to 69.0 mph).
The Santa Ana Wind Circulation Map (Photojournal
JPL NASA) shows the direction of the Santa Ana
winds as they travel from the stable, high-pressure
weather system called the Great Basin High through
the canyons and towards the low-pressure system off
the Pacific. Clearly, the City of Santa Clarita is in the direct path of the ocean-bound Santa Ana winds
Clockwise circulation around the center of this
high-pressure area forces air down slope from the
high plateau. The air warms as it descends toward
the California coast at the rate of 5 degrees
Fahrenheit per 1000 feet due to compressional heating. Thus, compressional heating provides the primary source of warming. The air is dry since it originated in the desert and it dries out even more as it is heated. Resulting in low humidity and increase risk of wildfires.
Map 66: Santa Ana Wind Circulation Pattern
Figure 117: Santa Ana Wind Satellite Image
Source: NASA / JPL-Caltech, 2002
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VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
In Agoura Hills, the elderly and those speaking languages other than English are particularly vulnerable to windstorms. The elderly may face increased risk of injury from debris and falling objects and may have difficulty securing their homes against high winds. Non-English speakers may struggle with receiving timely warnings and understanding safety measures, increasing their risk of harm.
Calabasas residents, including those on fixed incomes, transitory workers, homeless individuals, and elderly or disabled residents, face heightened risks during windstorms. Fixed-income residents may lack the resources to invest in home fortifications or temporary relocation. Transitory workers and homeless individuals may not have access to reliable shelter, increasing their vulnerability.
Elderly and disabled residents may experience significant difficulty in securing their homes and protecting themselves from debris and falling objects.
In Hidden Hills, the older population, households with disabilities, and those with limited transportation capabilities are at substantial risk from windstorms. Older adults and those with disabilities may find it challenging to secure their homes and protect themselves from flying debris.
Limited transportation can hinder their ability to reach safer areas, potentially leading to prolonged exposure to hazardous conditions.
Malibu's transitory workers, elderly population, lower-income residents, and homeless individuals are particularly vulnerable during windstorms. Transitory workers and the homeless often lack stable housing, making it difficult to find safe, wind-resistant shelter. Elderly individuals may struggle with mobility issues that hinder securing their homes and protecting themselves, while lower-income residents may lack the financial means to fortify their homes against wind damage.
In Westlake Village, the elderly, disabled, homeless individuals, and residents speaking a language other than English face significant risks from windstorms. The elderly and disabled may find it difficult to secure their homes and protect themselves from flying debris due to mobility issues and health concerns. Homeless individuals are highly vulnerable due to lack of shelter and resources. Non-English speakers may miss critical warnings and safety instructions, increasing their risk during windstorms.
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WINDSTORM MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Interagency Efforts
In the case of buildings and structures, the likelihood of structural element detachment is influenced by local building code requirements, the location of buildings in reference to wind patterns and in the level of maintenance and upkeep. In addition, one of the strongest and most widespread existing mitigation strategies pertains to tree clearance.
Currently, California State Law and LA County Fire Code requires utility companies to maintain specific clearances (depending on the type of voltage running through the line) between electric power lines and all vegetation (Fire Code section 325.1 Electrical Transmission Lines).
Furthermore, homeowners are required to allow a utility company to comply with the law. Failure to provide access to utility power lines can result in liability to the homeowner for damages or injuries resulting from a vegetation hazard. Many insurance companies do not cover these types of damages if the policy owner has refused to allow the hazard to be eliminated.
Continuous upgrades to engineering design criteria based on the latest industrial progress, geotechnical findings, and Code revisions are being conducted. For instance, Dynamic Shake Table Tests were recently made mandatory for certain equipment in addition to analytical design.
LVMCOG Mitigation Activities
Agoura Hills
In order to mitigate the impact of windstorms, the City of Agoura Hills maintains an inventory that currently has 4,236 trees listed (as of 2023). The tree inventory is segmented into grids (1,2,3,4,5) and the goal is to maintain each grid every two years then the inventory is updated accordingly.
The online inventory is updated whenever any tree trimming or maintenance is performed. The city utilizes this tree inventory to monitor when pruning is necessary to mitigate the risk of falling trees and large branches onto people, structures, electrical lines, vehicles, and roadways.
Additionally, keeping a tree inventory as well as their scheduled pruning to reduce damage from windstorms benefits at-risk populations in the area such as elderly and younger residents who require transportation and electrical power. The reason these activities are a benefit is that unmaintained tree branches could be blown off in a windstorm and cause damage harmful to atrisk individuals due to blocked roads limiting access to medical care, downed power lines, and damage to homes.
Local codes on tree pruning are reviewed and updated when new codes regarding tree maintenance were implemented. Per the Agoura Hills Planning Department there is a reduced fee for an oak tree trimming permit application for members of the community. This reduced fee program is especially beneficial to lower income and older populations on fixed incomes that cannot effort to prune trees on their properties to prevent future wind damage to structures.
Calabasas
The Environmental Commission of the City of Calabasas among other duties is responsible for maintaining the Urban Forestry Master Plan and making recommendations to carry out the policies and goals of that plan. The Urban Forestry Master Plan includes the monitoring and maintenance of the city’s tree population. These efforts are intended to mitigate the threat of falling trees and Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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large branches from causing injuries, damaging homes and vehicles, blocking roadways, and downing electrical lines causing power outages. For example, tracking the city tree population and encouraging proper care of privately owned trees benefits vulnerable populations in Calabasas such as older residents and single parent households with younger residents who may be economically challenged. These activities benefits these populations because it mitigates the chances of weak or dead branches or trees toppling in a windstorm causing injuries, damaging homes, vehicles, or other property these individuals would struggle to finance repairs.
Additionally, the city has a program that grants free Healthy Oak Tree permits. The intent of this program is to encourage proper maintenance of privately owned oak trees in order to reduce safety hazards. This free program is especially beneficial for low income and fixed income residents who may not otherwise be incentivized to maintain the trees on their properties.
Hidden Hills
The City of Hidden Hills has had no incidents of loss of property or life due to windstorm activity therefore it does not take any steps with regards to current mitigation activities. Nevertheless, the city does issue seasonal bulletins to encourage wind related mitigation such as tree pruning, brush clearing, roof and landscape maintenance to reduce the risk of severe windstorm damage. These bulletins are important reminders to local vulnerable populations such as the elderly and single parent households. Further, as climate change driven windstorms increase, future mitigation strategies will be considered. Additionally, if a severe wind event occurs, the city has programs to address the needs of vulnerable populations (very young, elderly, disabled, etc.) to facilitate evacuation and/or in-place care.
Malibu
The City of Malibu has begun a citywide tree pruning program. In addition, the city is using aerial photographs to update their GIS and map every tree on public property. These efforts further the city’s mitigation activities by reducing the risk of wind driven wildfire due to tree damaged power lines igniting a fire and limiting the amount of burnable fuel in the area. Additionally, this active tree program reduces the risk of wind damage to property and potential injury to individuals from falling tree limbs. Furthermore, tree pruning and mapping of trees on public property can benefit at risk populations such as older residents and transitory populations and the homeless. By properly maintaining its trees and pruning them, the chances of dead trees or branches falling off in a windstorm and damaging property or temporary shelters can be mitigated.
Westlake Village
The City of Westlake Village has completed a census and assessment of all trees on public property. Hazardous trees were removed. Further, the city has mapped all of its trees using a GIS program and prunes trees on a three-year cycle. By removing hazardous trees, trimming branches, and continually mapping tree locations, at risk populations such as elderly, disabled, young and financially underserved individuals benefit by reducing the risk of injury and property loss.
Additionally, removing hazardous trees and pruning programs mitigates the potential for large or unstable branches coming loose during a windstorm and damaging residencies and critical infrastructure.
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SECTION 12. FLOOD
THE NATURE OF THE FLOOD THREAT
The Las Virgenes-Malibu area is situated near the western portion of the Santa Monica Mountains and has experienced flooding in the past from major winter storm events. Flooding poses a threat to life and safety and can cause severe damage to public and private property. Due to the natural mountainous terrain as well as changes in the landscape (due to development) and natural disasters such as wildfire, flooding can be a factor in the area. In addition, the City of Malibu coastline is at risk of tsunami. Although the risk is relatively low, flooding due to tsunami can occur.
HISTORICAL RECORD OF FLOODING
History of Flooding in Southern California
Historically, the region has experienced extended periods (on the order of years) of either wet or dry weather. Additionally, in any given year the amount of precipitation can vary widely. The National Weather Service has documented the following significant flood and flash flood events in Southern California since 2014.
Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
8/20/2023 to
8/21/2023
Tropical storm Hilary made landfall in Southern
California resulting in 4 to 5 inches of rain in
the valley region that includes the LVMCOG
though the most severe rain fell to the east and
in the mountain regions.
Street and freeway flooding, fast moving storm
channels, and cancelled flights at local airports.
12/31/2022 to
1/1/2023
A potent storm moved in late on 12.31.2022
and continued into 1.1.2023. The heaviest band
of rain straddled the region just as the clock
struck midnight. Many mountain locations
recorded over 4” of precipitation, mostly rain.
Lytle Creek took top honors with 5.85”. Lower
elevations generally got 1-2”, but Coto de Caza
overachieved with 3.62”.
Street and stream flooding was observed in many
areas and was particularly serious next to the
Fairview burn scar south of Hemet.
12/11/2022 to
12/12/2022
An atmospheric river was steered into Southern
California by a deep trough and brought heavy
rain, ranging from 0.50-2” in the lowlands,
generally 24” in the mountains (except outlier
Lytle Creek with 5.03”), and 0.03” to about
one-third inch in the deserts.
Areas of urban flooding developed, and swiftwater rescues were made in Ontario and Anaheim. 11/8/2022 to
11/9/2022
A deep trough of low pressure with copious
moisture brought heavy rain to the region. Total
rainfall amounted to 1 to 2” coast and valleys,
and 3 to 5” in the mountains. A peak of 9” was
recorded in Lytle Creek.
Heavy rain resulted in urban flooding, including
three fatalities in a channel in Cucamonga creek.
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
9/12/2022
Moisture from remnants of Tropical Cyclone
Kay brought precipitable water measured at
2.35” inches, a record level for September and
the second wettest all-time in the sounding
record back to 1956. Rainfall ranged from 2 to
6” from the Anza Borrego Desert to Mt. Laguna
on 9.9. Thunderstorms erupted in the mountains
and desert and Inland Empire from 9.10 to 9.12.
Including one storm producing a rain rate of
2.44” in one hour at Raywood Flats on 9.12.
On 9.12, flash floods and debris flows flowed into
Forest Falls and Oak Glen, where 30 homes and
businesses were damaged. Search and rescue
operations found all missing persons but one, a
woman who was killed in Forest Falls. 14
evacuees spent at least one night at a Red Cross
shelter. Several roads and highways in this area
were blocked by debris and closed. Other massive
debris flows, including large trees and boulders,
flowed down Banning and Mias Canyons above
Banning. Flash floods were also reported in
Barona and Temescal Valley.
8/13/2022 Thunderstorms hit the San Bernardino
Mountains. 2.28” at Yucaipa Ridge.
The rain came in a short time and triggered debris
flows and flash floods into Forest Falls.
8/8/2022
Heavy thunderstorms struck Mt. San Jacinto.
1.98” fell. A heavy thunderstorm complex
struck the southern Anza Borrego Desert. Its
giant anvil plume with light rain spread all the
way to the coast across much of the San Diego
metro area.
A serious flash flood in Chino Canyon closed the
Palm Springs Tram and stranded visitors for a
time. Another flash flood took out part of
Highway S2 in the Anza Borrego Desert.
7/31/2022
Numerous heavy thunderstorms struck the El
Dorado burn scar (above Yucaipa). Rainfall
intensities exceeded 1” in 1 hour and a couple
approached 2” per hour. Some weakening
thunderstorms managed to drift across southern
Orange County to the coast.
Significant flash floods and debris flows that
closed parts of highway 38 near Angelus Oaks for
days. Storms in the high desert led to several flash
floods.
12/28/2021 to
12/30/2021
A wet and powerful storm struck the region,
with emphasis on Ventura and Los Angeles
Counties, where rainfall ranged from 3 and 7
inches with local amounts up to 9 inches in the
mountains. 2 to 5 inches fell in far western San
Bernardino County.
Flooding of streets filled with water to the curbs
in Seal Beach. Boulders fell onto Highway 138 in
Crestline.
12/23/2021 to
12/24/2021
A series of storms paraded through the region,
each bringing heavy rain during late December.
Two-day totals for this storm reached 6” in the
mountains, but Lytle Creek alone achieved just
over 8”. The northern Inland Empire got 2-5”,
while most other lower elevation stations
received 0.75-3”. Even parts of the lower
deserts got more than one inch.
Several mountain roadways were washed out,
including Highways 18 and 243. Flooding was
observed in the Mojave River in Hesperia, along
Indian Canyon Road near Palm Springs, in San
Bernardino, in Cherry Valley just below the Apple
Fire burn scar, and in nearby Oak Glen. Debris
flows inundated parts of Silverado Canyon within
the Bond Fire burn scar.
12/14/2021
A significant winter storm brought heavy rain to
lower elevations. 5 to 6” of rain fell on the
southwest slopes of the San Gabriel and San
Bernardino Mountains, with Lytle Creek
singularly achieving 7.06”.
Several debris flows occurred, in the Bond Fire
burn scar in eastern Orange County and below the
Apple Fire burn scar near Beaumont. Localized
flooding was common across the region. Rocks
and debris closed some mountain highways.
10/21/2021 to
10/25/2021
A significant storm for October tapped into a
weakening atmospheric river to bring over 2” of
rain to the region including over 1.4 inches in
Malibu. In the San Bernardino Mountains. 1-2”
were common in the mountains, while 0.25- 1”
was common at lower elevations, including the
high desert.
The rain combined with vulnerable burn scars to
produce rock slid mud and debris flows that
closed es, off several highways in the mountains.
These closures were near Big Bear Dam, Oak
Glen and Forest Falls.
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
8/10/2021
A mesoscale convective system (organized
thunderstorms) produced heavy showers and
thunderstorms in the desert, mountains and even
to the coast near San Diego. San Felipe received
2.49”, Ranchita 2.27”, and Mason Valley 1.84”.
Flash flooding occurred all around Borrego
Valley, Desert Research Institute, Airport, Coyote
Canyon and adjacent citrus tree fields.
7/30/2021
A surge of monsoon moisture produced
numerous heavy thunderstorms across the
mountains. Rain rates of 1.0 to 1.5 inches per
hour were observed in the heavier storms.
Several flash floods and debris flows occurred,
particularly on the El Dorado Fire burn scar along
Highway 38 near Angelus Oaks.
7/26/2021
Widespread showers and thunderstorms hit the
entire region, even to the coast. Many locations
in mountains and deserts received over one inch
of rainfall, with Lake Cuyamaca topping the list
at 2.32”, Indio 1.60” and Apple Valley 1.34”.
West of the mountains, amounts ranged from
0.01” to 0.83” inch at Rincon Springs.
Distribution was not uniform in any respect.
A flash flood spread sand and rocks across Dillon
Road and Ramon Road near Thousand Palms.
Several Indio streets were flooded with water.
3/11/2021
A powerful storm contained a heavy burst of
rain in eastern Orange County that struck the
Bond Fire burn scar in Silverado Canyon. 0.20
inch of rain fell in 15 minutes.
A debris flow went over roads and into homes,
damaging six homes and eight vehicles in
Silverado. The flow also closed a stretch of
Silverado Canyon Road.
1/28/2021 to
1/29/2021
A powerful winter storm and atmospheric river
brought heavy rain. 4 to10 inches fell across
San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties, 2
to 6 inches fell in Ventura County and 1 to 4
inches fell in Los Angeles County. 1.5 inches of
rain fell across Santiago Canyon in eastern
Orange County.
Many areas flooded, including Santiago Canyon
where mud and debris flows covered roads and
damaged homes. A vehicle got stuck in
floodwaters in Perris, prompting a water rescue. 8
people were trapped in a flooding storm drain
between Otay Mesa and San Ysidro. 7 were
helped to safety, but one perished.
4/8/2020 to
4/10/2020
A warm front moved through the region on 4/8
and brought waves of showers from south to
north. Following the warm front, an upper low
moved into the California Bight and stalled on
4/9, bringing 3 to 5 inches of rain to Orange
County and San Diego County through 4/10.
Many locations recorded their highest daily
rainfall record: San Diego (1.98"), Chula Vista
(1.56"), and Vista (3.18"). Oceanside Harbor
recorded their wettest 24-hours on record with
3.06". Six-day storm totals were 3 to 7 inches
along the coast and valleys, 4 to 8 inches with
locally 10 in the mountains, and 1 to 2 inches in
the deserts. Rainfall in San Diego County was
3-4” inches in a 24 hour period. All-time daily
rainfall records were broken on 4/10 in
Oceanside and Vista, each recording over 3”.
Monthly rainfall records were broken for April
at those locations, each receiving over 6” in just
six days.
Numerous flash floods and floods resulted. Flood
waters combined with mud, boulders and debris in
Bonsall, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Vista,
Pacific Beach, Del Mar, Valley Center, Rancho
Penasquitos and several spots in Mission Valley.
Highway 78, a major freeway corridor between
Oceanside and Escondido, was closed in both
directions from flooding on adjacent Buena Vista
Creek. Numerous swift-water rescues were made
all across San Diego County. The San Diego
River at Fashion Valley reached a peak of 12.5
feet.
3/12/2020 An atmospheric river brought heavy rain and
thunderstorms, especially to the deserts where 1
to 2 inches fell. 550 lightning strikes occurred.
Flash flooding was observed near Canebrake,
Borrego Springs, Lakeview, Riverside, Corona,
parts of the Coachella Valley, Apple Valley. A
mudslide occurred near Pinyon Pines. A road was
eroded near Mentone. Water rescues happened in
Glen Avon and Corona.
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
12/26/2019 A powerful winter storm brought intense rain and thunderstorms that measured 1 to 3.5 inches
from the coast to the mountains.
Flooding of intersections and low lying areas were
widely observed during the most intense rainfall,
including in San Marcos and Mission Valley.
Vehicle rescues were needed.
11/28/2019 A powerful storm struck the region on this
Thanksgiving Day. Heavy rainfall of 1 to 3
inches fell at the coast and in the valleys.
Numerous roadways were damaged from flooding
and erosion. There was a large boulder on Ortega
highway and a sinkhole in Redlands. A swiftwater rescue was needed in National City. An RV park in La Mesa was heavily damaged.
9/2/2019 Nocturnal thunderstorms migrated from the east and hit the Coachella Valley early in the
morning this Labor Day. Other thunderstorms
struck the mountains that afternoon. Sky Oaks
was the standout, receiving 2.71 inches, while
many other mountain locations received 0.50 to
1.50 inches.
Several flash floods impacted the Coachella
Valley.
2/14/2019 A major atmospheric river pummeled Southern
California with heavy rain. Many mountain
locales recorded 8 to 10 inches of rain, with
Palomar Mountain recording over 10 inches.
Palm Springs recorded 3.69 inches, the third
wettest day on record.
Flash flooding resulted with damage to roads.
High snow levels resulted in flooding in the San
Bernardino Mountains. Flash flooding and debris
flows occurred at and below the Holy Fire burn
scar near Lake Elsinore. Highways ripped out by
water and debris on both sides of Mt. San Jacinto
were closed for weeks for major repairs.
2/2/2019 A strong downpour across the burn scar of the
2017 Whittier Fire triggered a debris flow in
Duval Canyon (Giorgi 2019).
The event clogged and damaged a culvert beneath
Highway 154, shutting down the highway for a
month between Highway 246 in Santa Ynez to
Highway 192 in Santa Barbara for clearing,
severing a key north-south arterial linking north
county and south county.
1/15/2019 A winter storm brought a band of very heavy
rain to northwest Orange County. Seal Beach,
Huntington Beach and Fountain Valley each
reported roughly 2 inches of rain in 2 hours.
The intense rain produced flash flooding. Water
was up to doorways outside of homes, and the
Pacific Coast Highway was closed for over a day
in Huntington Beach.
9/30/2018 Remnant moisture from Tropical Storm Rosa
advanced into Southern California, bringing
rain and widespread thunderstorms to the
region, particularly the mountains and deserts.
In the Coachella Valley, a strong thunderstorm
accumulated up to 3.5” of rain in 2 hours near
Mecca.
One fatality resulted from the storm near Mecca.
An individual was swept away on Box Canyon
road.
1/19/2018 On Tuesday, January 9, 2018, following the
2017 Thomas Fire, which burned 281,893 acres
in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, a
reported 0.54 inches of rain fell within 5
minutes in the burn scars from the Thomas Fire
in the foothills of Montecito. Over two days a
total of four inches of rain fell in the area.
The heavy rains caused massive debris flows and
flooding that damaged or destroyed 408 homes,
killed 23 residents, and led to the closure of
Highway 101 and the UPRR for more than 3
weeks, cutting off the county from communities
to the south. California Geological Survey
scientists estimated the Montecito debris flow as
having speeds of 10-15 mph, being up to 25-30
feet deep, and capable of carrying boulders as
large as a tow truck. (California Geological
Survey 2019b).
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
1/9/2018 A potent winter storm struck Southern
California. Intense rainfall around Santa
Barbara and Ventura measured as high as 0.54
inches in 5 minutes.
A 15 foot deadly mud and debris flow hit the
community of Montecito, around the burn scar of
the Thomas fire, where 23 lost their lives, 128
residences were destroyed, and 307 others were
damaged. Highway 101 was closed for days due
to the mud and debris.
9/9/2017
Thunderstorms struck the deserts with heavy
rains, including a daily record of 1.20 inches at
Palm Springs.
Intense flash flooding in Palm Springs and
Cathedral City, where structures throughout the
city were flooded and roads were covered in
debris. At Palm Springs High School, 31
classrooms were inundated. Major flood damage
also occurred at a mobile home park.
8/12/2017 Two giant supercell thunderstorms unleashed
their fury on the Anza Borrego Desert.
Flash flooding and wind damage occurred around
Agua Caliente Springs and Canebrake.
8/1/2017
Numerous monsoon thunderstorms struck the
valleys. 1.56 inches fell in Alpine in a short
period.
Flash flooding, downed trees and power outages
were reported in Corona, Perris, San Bernardino,
Temecula, and Alpine.
2/27/2017 to
2/28/2017
An atmospheric river storm struck mainly San
Diego County with 2-9 inches of rainfall in 24
hours. The San Diego River in Mission Valley
crested at 14.15 feet, the third highest stage alltime.
Numerous roadways were closed, the Fashion
Valley Mall parking structure was closed and the
Fashion Valley Transit Center was closed to bus
traffic. Numerous water rescues were conducted
along the San Diego River including 20 people
rescued from hotels in Mission Valley. Many
vehicles were also flooded and destroyed.
1/19/2017 to
1/23/2017
A series of three winter storms hit during five
days. Total rainfall reached 10-13 inches along
the coastal slopes from San Bernardino to San
Diego County. Over the coast and valleys 2-7
inches of rain occurred with 0.5-3 inches in the
deserts.
Widespread flooding, including damage to homes
and businesses and numerous stranded vehicles in
several feet of water. Dozens of high water
rescues were made, 29 in San Diego County on
1.20 alone. One boy was swept away to his death
in floodwaters in Rainbow. The governor declared
a State of Emergency in San Diego County.
7/1/2016
Strong thunderstorms formed over the Mojave
Desert and San Bernardino Mountains. Up to
three inches of rain fell between Helendale and
Victorville. This was the only significant round
of thunderstorms during the 2016 monsoon
season.
Significant flash flooding that forced closure of
Highway 66 near Bryman.
1/5/2016 to
1/7/2016
A strong, low latitude jet stream brought a
series of storms through Southern California
with periods of moderate to heavy rain. Threeday rainfall totals were around 2-7” for the coast, valley and foothill areas, and 1- 3” for the
deserts. After several years of drought, this was
the only precipitation event of significance
during an otherwise disappointing strong El
Niño season.
Flooding resulted nearly everywhere, with
southwestern San Diego County being hardest hit.
Floods buried cars in Ocean Beach and Mission
Valley. High water rescues occurred on 1.6
around San Diego. Small mudslides, including
boulders on highways were reported near
Ramona, Redlands, Crestline, Orange, Rancho
San Diego and De Luz. Three debris flows in
Silverado Canyon below a burn scar.
11/3/2015 to
11/4/2015
A wet winter storm brought locally heavy rain to
Southern California. San Diego recorded a oneday total of 1.09” on 11.3, setting a daily rainfall record. 0.10” to 1.5” fell elsewhere, heaviest in
southern San Diego County. Hail of one quarter
inch was reported in Dana Point and southern
San Diego County.
Urban flooding in Spring Valley and Lemon Grove
with water up to the doors of some vehicles and
several roads closed.
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
10/18/2015
Thunderstorms dropped very heavy rainfall in
Death Valley. Scotty's Castle measured 2.72
inches of rain in roughly five hours.
Major flash flooding hit the Grapevine Canyon
area of Death Valley National Park. Mesquite
Springs Campground and Grapevine Ranger
Station were evacuated; eight vehicles full of
visitors and three park rangers were stranded
overnight near Ubehebe Crater. Trenches up to six
feet deep were cut into Scotty's Castle Road. 24
power poles were downed. Mud and debris
damaged or destroyed the water supply
infrastructure, stables, visitors center, and the
cookhouse.
10/16/2015
Strong thunderstorms hit northern Ventura and
LA counties.
Flash flooding and mud and debris flows occurred
in the San Gabriel Mountains, Cuyama, and the
Antelope Valley.
9/15/2015
A Pacific trough tapped into remnant moisture
from tropical cyclone Linda. 1-2” of rain was
common across the entire region.
Major traffic jam during the morning commute in
LA and Orange County, along with a debris flow
in Silverado Canyon, and widespread urban
flooding.
9/7/2015 to
9/8/2015
Subtropical moisture from remnants of
Hurricane Linda brought thunderstorms to most
of the region. Additional thunderstorms on 9.8
developed over the mountains and spread into
the Inland Empire and Orange County, as well as
near I-15 in San Diego County. Hail was mostly
nickel-sized, but a few larger. A small dust
storm hit Riverside.
Flash floods hit Victorville (which included a swift
water rescue). Another flash flood in Forest Falls
also had a swift water rescue, but also one
drowning death. On 9.8 several trees and poles
were downed in the Riverside area from the dust
storm.
7/29/2015 to
7/30/2015
Scattered thunderstorms occurred mainly over
the mountains and deserts with wide-ranging
rainfall totals from a few tenths of an inch to
locally over 2”.
Flash flooding occurred in Idyllwild, Timoteo
Canyon, Calimesa and Moreno Valley.
7/18/2015 to
7/19/2015
Moisture from Hurricane Dolores, along with
monsoon moisture resulted in showers and
thunderstorms over most Southern California.
Rainfall ranged from 0.5-4”, including a record
1.71” at San Diego on 7.18 (unprecedented
rainfall: single-day and July monthly total). The
San Diego River at Fashion Valley had 2 crests
above monitor stage, 7.7 feet on the 18th and
8.8 feet on 7.19. On 7.19 over 6” of rain fell
over several hours just west of Desert Center.
A debris flow hit the burn scar of Silverado
Canyon. Flash floods hit Moreno Valley, Perris,
and La Mesa on 7.19. A wet microburst struck
Tierrasanta on 7.18, causing wind damage. A
haboob caused wind damage in the Anza Borrego
Park and in Palm Desert. The rain caused the first
rain-out of a Los Angeles Angels baseball game
since 1995, and a rare 2-hour rain delay at the San
Diego Padres baseball game. Over 2000 lightning
strikes were reported on 7.18, some starting small
brush fires. Near Desert Center on 7.19 eastbound
lanes of Interstate 10 collapsed where they
crossed a heavily flowing wash. A vehicle drove
into the hole in the collapsed bridge, trapping the
driver and requiring rescue. I-10 was closed in
both directions causing huge traffic backups.
7/6/2015
Monsoon thunderstorms hit the mountains and
upper desert. A few spots received up to around
one-third of an inch, including a portion of the
Lake Fire burn area south of Big Bear Lake.
Several debris flows resulted, including one
consisting mostly of ash and mud over portions of
Highway 38, up to a foot deep in some areas.
5/14/2015
A strong late-season winter storm, along with
some thunderstorms, hit the region. San Diego
reported 1.30” of rain in one hour. A nineminute period within that main hour, totaled
0.71”, which is near the 1/100 return interval.
Flooding in Mission Hills and Midway District of
San Diego was up to 4 feet deep. Several swift
water rescues.
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Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
12/12/2014 to
12/13/2014
A strong Pacific storm brought heavy rain.
Widespread rainfall amounts of 1 to 1.5” in the
coast and valley areas. Mountain locations got
up to 4”.
River rises in the San Diego River resulted in a
levee breach which flooded the parking lot of
Qualcomm Stadium. Several other roadways in
San Diego County were closed due to flooding
with mud and debris in the road, especially near
the Tijuana River Valley.
12/3/2014 to
12/4/2014
A Pacific storm brought moderate to heavy rain.
Two-day rainfall totals of 1-2” were recorded
west of the mountains, while the southern
slopes of the San Bernardino County mountains
saw up to 5” of rain (isolated amount of 14.5” at
Yucaipa Ridge).
Flooding resulted, with mud, debris and water
closing several roadways and stranding vehicles.
Mud with debris 10 feet high piled up on Soboba
Rd. north of San Jacinto. A swift water rescue was
needed.
9/7/2014 to
9/8/2014
Weakening Hurricane Norbert brought moisture
to produce thunderstorms mainly in Riverside
and San Diego Counties. Rainfall amounts of 1
to 2 inches fell over the city of Riverside, San
Bernardino and Hemet, while the mountains in
that county saw up to 0.60” near Sky Valley.
Early morning thunderstorms on 9.8 drenched
parts of the Coachella Valley which received
0.33” up to just over 3 inches near the lower
foothill in Thousand Palms and La Quinta.
Widespread flash flooding, most notably in the
Coachella Valley on 9.8. Mud and water closed
roads and stranded vehicles in La Quinta, Palm
Desert, and Thousand Palms. Homes in La Quinta
were surrounded by water. Moving water was 3
feet deep on roads and 4 to 5 feet of standing
water submerged vehicles. Mud was several feet
deep on Varner Road.
8/12/2014
A heavy thunderstorm struck east of Julian. A debris flow blocked Hwy. 78 east of Julian on the Banner Grade that was one to two feet deep.
The Banner Fire burn scar contributed to this
flow.
8/3/2014
Heavy thunderstorms hit the Inland Empire, the
mountains and the lower desert. Mt. Baldy
Village got 4.40 inches, with four inches falling
in 60 minutes.
Flash flooding and debris flows were common.
Road closures and damage.
7/27/2014 Thunderstorms erupted in the mountains of San Diego County and even along the coast.
Flash flooding occurred in La Jolla Shores and
near Warner Springs along Hwy 79.
7/5/2014
Thunderstorms erupted in the Inland Empire,
San Bernardino Mountains, and the High Desert.
Flash flooding closed roads in the High Desert
along I-15 and Hwy. 247 and required a swift
water rescue in Yucaipa. On 7/5 flash flooding
occurred along Hwy. 247 in Landers.
5/23/2014 Thunderstorms over the San Diego County
mountains drifted over the adjacent deserts.
Flash flooding occurred along and north of
Highway 78, south of Borrego Springs.
2/28/2014 to
3/1/2014
A very wet storm was the only significant storm
of the 2013-14 wet season. Rainfall ranged from
1 inch at the coast to up to 8 inches in the
mountains. Up to 1 inch fell in the desert.
Yucaipa Ridge measured over 11 inches.
Urban and flash flooding with mud/debris flows,
causing numerous road closures and swift water
rescues in and around Anaheim, San DiegoFashion Valley, Escondido, Fallbrook and Lake Elsinore. Mud slides closed Hwy. 74 (Ortega
Highway) stemming from the Falls Fire burn scar.
Many road closures in the Coachella Valley where
rivers saw rises of 2 to 5 feet, in some instances
within 12 hours. On 3.1, flooding resulted in
Oceanside, Temecula, Sea World San Diego, as
well as minor street flooding in Mission Viejo.
Table 153: Significant Flood Events in Southern California 2014 - 2022 Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Las Virgenes-Malibu Flood Probability
According to the FEMA National Risk Index, the Los Angeles region records the chance of riverine flooding as 4.4 events per year.
Disasters Declarations and Emergency Proclamations
FEMA disaster declarations allow state, tribal, and local governments to access federal aid for disaster response and recovery when overwhelmed. Similarly, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) issues proclamations to mobilize state resources and streamline procedures.
FEMA Disasters Declarations
No disaster declarations.
Cal OES Open State of Emergency Proclamations
Proclamation Date: 9/16/22 || Tropical Storm Kay
Tropical storm conditions brought heavy rainfall and strong winds across southern California, causing flooding and debris flows. The storm system, including debris flows, also damaged or destroyed roads in Imperial, Inyo, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties.
Proclamation Date: 1/4/23 || December 2022-January 2023 Storms Severe winter storms struck California causing high winds, and expected flooding, and widespread power outages. This declaration was a hazard to the entire state of California.
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Significant Floods in the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region
The National Flood Insurance Program tracks flood losses for the U.S. The following table lists the NFIP loss totals for the cities within the Las Virgenes-Malibu area from 1992 through 2019.
City and Year of
Claim
Number of
Claims
Amount Paid on
Building Claims
Amount Paid on
Contents Claims
Total NFIP Claim
Payments
Agoura Hills 34 $282,822 $34,754 $317,576
1992 2 $11,152 $- $11,152
1993 3 $7,844 $- $7,844
1995 2 $2,563 $58 $2,621
1997 1 $-
1998 9 $29,530 $5,016 $34,546
2001 3 $-
2003 1 $-
2004 2 $11,242 $58 $11,300
2005 2 $7,146 $3,219 $10,364
2008 1 $-
2011 2 $5,190 $- $5,190
2017 3 $180,681 $26,404 $207,085
2019 3 $27,474 $- $27,474
Calabasas 12 $48,032 $1,278 $49,310
1998 3 $774 $- $774
2004 2 $5,704 $- $5,704
2005 2 $4,422 $1,278 $5,701
2011 1 $-
2017 3 $7,911 $- $7,911
2019 1 $29,220 $- $29,220
Hidden Hills 13 $250,680 $15,972 $266,652
1992 2 $10,322 $3,218 $13,540
1993 1 $1,261 $- $1,261
1998 2 $3,932 $- $3,932
2000 1 $-
2001 2 $31,085 $8,946 $40,031
2005 4 $204,079 $3,808 $207,888
2017 1 $-
Malibu 113 $2,033,041 $258,818 $2,291,859
1994 2 $51,612 $- $51,612
1995 9 $227,170 $13,220 $240,390
1996 3 $-
1997 1 $-
1998 15 $282,741 $585 $283,326
2000 1 $39,384 $17,851 $57,235
2001 4 $-
2003 1 $-
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City and Year of
Claim
Number of
Claims
Amount Paid on
Building Claims
Amount Paid on
Contents Claims
Total NFIP Claim
Payments
2004 5 $57,837 $16,244 $74,081
2005 6 $126,283 $4,676 $130,959
2008 4 $67,842 $270 $68,112
2009 1 $33,034 $10,972 $44,006
2010 6 $26,476 $18,193 $44,669
2011 6 $500,000 $134,730 $634,730
2014 17 $307,629 $- $307,629
2015 4 $35,400 $- $35,400
2016 10 $56,790 $- $56,790
2017 12 $133,427 $- $133,427
2018 3 $-
2019 3 $87,415 $42,077 $129,493
Westlake Village 2 $-
1995 1 $-
2010 1 $-
Grand Total 181 $2,687,355 $333,562 $3,020,917
Table 154: Flood Loss Statistics for California (From January 1, 1992 to December 31, 2019) SOURCE: NFIP https://nfipservices.floodsmart.gov/reports-flood-insurance-data Severe Repetitive Losses
The Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL) grant program was authorized by the Bunning-BereuterBlumenauer Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2004, which amended the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to provide funding to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk of flood damage to severe repetitive loss (SRL) structures insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The definition of severe repetitive loss as applied to this program was established in section 1361A of the National Flood Insurance Act, as amended (NFIA), 42 U.S.C. 4102a. An SRL property is defined as a residential property that is covered under an NFIP flood insurance policy and:
(a) That has at least four NFIP claim payments (including building and contents) over $5,000 each, and the cumulative amount of such claims payments exceeds $20,000; or (b) For which at least two separate claims payments (building payments only) have been made with the cumulative amount of the building portion of such claims exceeding the market value of the building.
For both (a) and (b) above, at least two of the referenced claims must have occurred within any ten-year period and must be greater than 10 days apart.
In terms of the Las Virgenes-Malibu area, while there have been losses from flooding within the five city Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments region, there are no properties that have sustained severe repetitive losses.
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Repetitive Losses
The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) is authorized by Section 1366 of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as amended (NFIA), 42 U.S.C. 4104c, with the goal of reducing or eliminating claims under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
FMA was created as part of the National Flood Insurance Reform Act (NFIRA) of 1994. The Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Act of 2012 (Public Law 112-141) consolidated the Repetitive Flood Loss and Severe Repetitive Loss grant programs into FMA. FMA funding is available through the National Flood Insurance Fund (NFIF) for flood hazard mitigation projects as well as plan development and is appropriated by Congress.
Additionally, the Swift Current is a grant opportunity under the FMA grant program posted on Nov 14, 2023. The FMA grant program makes federal funds available to states, U.S. territories, federally recognized Tribal governments, and local governments to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings and structures insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and within NFIP-participating communities. Swift Current funds Individual Flood Mitigation Projects for Flood Mitigation Assistance and/or NFIP-defined Repetitive Loss (RL), Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL), or properties deemed Substantially Damaged after the applicant’s disaster declaration incident period start date.
In terms of the Las Virgenes-Malibu area, while there have been losses from flooding within the five city Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments region, there are no properties that have sustained severe repetitive losses.
City (RL)
Agoura Hills No repetitive losses within city boundaries.
Calabasas No repetitive losses within city boundaries.
Hidden Hills No repetitive losses within city boundaries.
Malibu No repetitive losses within city boundaries.
Westlake Village No repetitive losses within city boundaries.
CAUSES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF FLOODS
A flood, as defined by the National Flood Insurance Program is: A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or of two or more properties from: overflow of inland or tidal waters; unusual or rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source, or mudflow.
Flooding may occur as a result of sustained heavy rainfall, microbursts (short periods of large volumes of rain), large wave activity on the coast, or reservoir/dam failure. A “100-Year Recurrence Interval” is defined as a flood that according to historical data has a probability of occurrence once in 100 years. This benchmark used by FEMA to establish a regulatory baseline for all flooding events. Similar benchmarks are defined for 25, 50, 500-year events.
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Annual Rainfall
Rainfall in the LVMCOG region averages nearly 18 inches per year. However, the term “average rainfall” is misleading because over the recorded history of rainfall in the region, rainfall amounts have ranged from no rain at all in some years to well over normal averages in very wet years.
Furthermore, actual rainfall in Southern California tends to fall in large amounts during sporadic and often heavy storms rather than in consistent amounts throughout the year (See Community Profile Section for additional details). For example, the 2022 and 2023 years experienced greater than average rainfall including Tropical Storm Hilary in August 2023 which was the first severe storm of this type to reach Southern California since the 1930’s.
Dam and Reservoir Failure
Loss of life and damage to structures, roads, and utilities may result from a reservoir or dam failure.
Several factors influence the severity of a full or partial reservoir or dam failure: the amount of water released, topography, and the density of downstream populations and structures.
The Las Virgenes Municipal Water District (LVMWD) serves the cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills and Westlake Village (the City of Malibu is served by Los Angeles County Water District 29). The LVMWD maintains two major facilities in Westlake Village:
The Las Virgenes Reservoir is located at 2860 Three Springs Drive The Westlake Filtration Plant located at 32601 Torchwood Place (filters water from the Las Virgenes Reservoir prior to delivery to customers)
According to the Las Virgenes Water District, the Las Virgenes Reservoir has a surface area of approximately 160 acres and
contains nearly 3 billion gallons of
water. The reservoir was built from
1970 to 1972 and is comprised of two
earthen dams built on a bedrock
foundation. The main dam is 160
feet high, 2,000 feet long, 20 feet
wide at the top, and 750 feet wide at
the bottom. The saddle dam is 50 feet
high, 750 feet long, 20 feet wide at
the top, and 425 feet wide at the
bottom.
The Malibu Creek Watershed is
made up of 60,760 acres and is
comprised of 80 percent vacant
undeveloped land. The Malibu
Creek Watershed is part of the larger
North Santa Monica Bay Watershed
Management Area that drains into
the Santa Monica Bay. The cities
within the LVMCOG lie (either entirely or partially) within the North Santa Monica Bay Watershed.
SOURCE: Draft General National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit Letter, City of Malibu (9/06/2011)
Map 67: North Santa Monica Bay Watershed
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STAKEHOLDER INPUT AND PARTICIPATION
To identify the threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences of a major flood on the Las VirgenesMalibu Region, each member of the Planning Group which included representatives from the cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village provided their input during planning meetings (see Annex B: Meeting Agendas and Attendees) and follow-up discussions. Specific topics of discussion included if any changes to the hazard priorities have changed since the previous HMP, how changes in the community have impacted the risk of each hazard, and what new mitigation actions can be taken. In addition, each member of the Planning Group as well as members of the public provided the input via online surveys (see Annex C:
Community Disaster Preparedness and Risk Survey, Annex D: Planning Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey, and Annex E: Planning and Public Involvement).
FLOOD HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Flooding occurs when climate, geology, and hydrology combine to create conditions where water flows outside of its usual course. As described earlier, due to the close proximity to the Santa Monica Mountain range and variations of topography, there is a potential for flood throughout the entire area. Furthermore, due to continued growth, economic development and an increase of impermeable areas, the region’s storm water collection and conveyance system may become overwhelmed.
Geography and Geology
The Las Virgenes-Malibu Region geologic features mainly consist of un-consolidated and semiconsolidated alluvial materials underlain and bounded on the north and east by consolidated sediments and crystalline rocks. These deposits consist of a shallow layer of Quaternary fill that has been washed down from the Santa Monica Mountains.
The materials are generally poorly sorted sands and gravels, intermingled with silts and clays. This lack of open ground forces water to remain on the surface and rapidly accumulate. If it were not for the existing flood control system in the area with its concrete lined river and stream beds, flooding would be a much more common occurrence.
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Urban Development
The trend towards development has resulted in less open land and greater flood potential. In-fill building is becoming a much more common practice in many areas. Developers tear down an older home which typically covers up to 40% of the lot size and replace it with a single massive home or multi-unit town homes or apartments which may cover 90-95% of the lot. The consequence is less surface area for water to seep into the ground causing excessive run-off.
Another potential source of flooding is “asphalt creep.” The street space between the curbs of a street is a part of the flood control system. Water leaves property and accumulates in the streets, where it is directed towards the underground portion of the flood control system. The carrying capacity of the street is determined by the width of the street and the height of the curbs along the street. Often, when streets are being resurfaced, a one to two-inch layer of asphalt is laid down over the existing asphalt. This added layer of asphalt subtracts from the rated capacity of the street to carry water. Thus, the original engineered capacity of the entire storm drain system is marginally reduced over time. Subsequent re-paving of the street will further reduce the engineered capacity even more.
Dam Failure
There are four dams in the Westlake Village area that are listed with a downstream hazard as Extremely High or High:31
Source: California Department of Water Resources https://fmds.water.ca.gov/maps/damim/ 31 The CA Department of Water Resources (DWR), Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD) reviews and approves inundation maps prepared by licensed civil engineers and submitted by dam owners for extremely high, high, and significant hazard dams and their critical appurtenant structures.
Inundation maps approved by DSOD are a tool used to develop emergency action plans, and the maps are intended to provide general information for emergency planning. DWR assumes no legal responsibility resulting from the use of this information. Actual evacuation zones and timing will be determined by local emergency managers who are responsible for specific evacuation procedures in an emergency event.
Map 68: LVMCOG Dams with Inundation Maps
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Westlake Reservoir
If the Westlake Reservoir were to fail,
the projected inundation flow would
move north to Three Springs Drive then
east past Westlake Blvd. Bridge and
down Westlake Blvd./Triunfo Canyon
Road. Then flow past the Triunfo
Canyon Canal Bridge to Westlake
Village and down Potrero Valley Creek
to Malibu Creek and Malibu Lake then
eventually downstream to Malibu
Lagoon (Source: CA Department of
Water Resources (DWR), Division of
Safety of Dams (DSOD) and the Las
Virgenes Municipal Water District and
Mead & Hunt).
Map 70: Westlake Reservoir Inundation Timeline Map 1
Map 69: Westlake Reservoir Inundation Map Westlake Reservoir Inundation Map
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Map 71: Westlake Reservoir Inundation Timeline Map 2
Lake Sherwood
In the event of a Lake Sherwood dam failure, the flow would travel down Potrero Creek from Thousand Oaks past Triunfo Canyon Road Bridge towards Westlake Lake. Then eventually flow down Malibu Creek Malibu Lake then down to Malibu Lagoon.
Map 72: Lake Sherwood Inundation Map
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Map 73: Lake Sherwood Inundation Timeline Map
High
Potrero (Dam ID CA00743)
Lake Eleanor (Dam ID CA00737)
Potrero Dam
In the event of a Potrero Dam failure,
the water flow would progress from
Southeast Westlake Village down
Potrero Valley Creek to Malibu Creek
Malibu Lake then down to Malibu
Lagoon.
(Source: CA Department of Water
Resources (DWR), Division of Safety
of Dams (DSOD) and the Westlake
Village Management Association and
Mead & Hunt).
Map 74: Potrero Dam Inundation Map
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Map 75: Potrero Dam Inundation Timeline Map
Lake Eleanor
In the event of a Lake Eleanor Dam failure, the water flow would travel down the South Westlake Blvd. culvert north then east down Potrero Valley Creek towards Westlake Village Lake (Source:
CA Department of Water Resources (DWR), Division of Safety of Dams (DSOD) and Conejo Recreation & Park District and Mead & Hunt).
Map 76: Lake Eleanor Inundation Map
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Malibu Lake
In addition to the four dams listed in the LVMCOG, Malibu Lake Club (Dam ID CA00739) located in the Santa Monica Mountain National Recreation Area.
Map 77: Lake Eleanor Inundation Timeline Map
Map 78: Malibu Lake
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In the event of a Malibu Lake dam failure the
water would flow down Malibu Creek down to
Malibu Lagoon which could cause local flooding
in the City of Malibu. Specifically it is projected
that Cross Creek Road Bridge would be
overflowed by 1.8 feet and areas of Malibu
Lagoon would face rising water levels from 1 to
2 feet (Source: CA Department of Water
Resources (DWR), Division of Safety of Dams
(DSOD) and Malibu Lake Mountain Club and
Mead & Hunt).
Map 79: Malibu Lake Inundation Map
Map 80: Malibu Lake Inundation Timeline Map of Malibu Lagoon Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Flood Maps and Flood Insurance Studies
Flood maps and Flood Insurance Studies (FIS) are often used to identify flood-prone areas. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) was established in 1968 as a means of providing lowcost flood insurance to the nation’s flood-prone communities. The NFIP also reduces flood losses through regulations that focus on building codes and sound floodplain management. NFIP regulations (44 Code of Federal Regulations Chapter 1, Section 60, 3) require that all new construction in floodplains must be elevated at or above base flood level. Furthermore, the Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Government cities have municipal codes that provide for the protection of residential and non-residential structures in Flood Hazard areas.
Source: CA.gov
Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM)
A Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) is an official map produced by FEMA which delineates communities where NFIP regulations apply. FIRMs are used by insurance agents and mortgage lenders to determine if flood insurance is required and what insurance rates should apply (see Annex F Flood Insurance Rate Maps section for maps of each city).
FIRMs combine water surface elevations with topographic data to illustrate areas that would be inundated during a 100-year flood, floodway areas, and elevations marking the 100-year-flood level. In some cases, they also include base flood elevations (BFEs) and areas located within the 500-year floodplain. Flood Insurance Studies and FIRMs produced for the NFIP provide assessments of the probability of flooding at a given location. However, it is important to note that these studies and maps represent flood risks at a point in time and do not incorporate subsequent floodplain changes due to new development or other changes in the geography of the area.
Map 81: FEMA 100-Year Floodplain Map
100-Year Floodplain
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FIRM Revisions and Amendments
The following revisions and/or amendments were made to the FIRMs for the LVMCOG since 2018:
Agoura Hills
Reference No. Date FIRM Change Description
18-09-0469P-065072
FIRM 06037C1244F
5/18/2018 Medea Creek from approximately 640 feet downstream of Kanan Road to approximately 80 feet downstream of Kanan Road the following revisions were implemented:
Effective
Flooding
Revised
Flooding Increases Decreases
Zone A Zone AE YES NO
No BFEs* BFEs YES NO
Zone AE Zone AE YES YES
BFEs* BFEs YES YES
*Base Flood Elevations
18-09-0955P-065043
FIRM 06037C1244F
5/02/2018 Medea Creek from approximately 4,100 feet downstream of Silver Creek Road to approximately 1,100 feet upstream of Silver Creek Road Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) received to partially reissue the LOMR dated 9/30/2013which revised the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) which incorporated an update to FIRM panel 06037C1244F.
Table 155: FEMA Flood Map Revisions - Agoura Hills
Calabasas and Hidden Hills
Due to their close proximity and downstream impacts, the revisions to the FIRMs for the cities of Calabasas and Hidden Hills have been combined.
Reference No. Date FIRM Change Description
21-09-0727P-060137
FIRM 06037C1267F
3/21/2022 Unnamed tributary to Arroyo Calabasas.
Effective
Flooding
Revised
Flooding Increases Decreases
No BFEs* Depths YES NONE
Zone A Zone X NONE YES
Zone X Zone AO YES NONE
*Base Flood Elevations
21-09-0727P-060125
FIRM 06037C1267F
3/21/2022 Unnamed tributary to Arroyo Calabasas from approximately 850 feet downstream to approximately 2,600 feet upstream of Orville Avenue.
Effective
Flooding
Revised
Flooding Increases Decreases
No BFEs* Depths YES NONE
Zone A Zone AO YES YES
Zone X Zone AO YES NONE
Zone A Zone X NONE YES
*Base Flood Elevations
18-09-1642P-060125
FIRM 06037C1267F
3/18/2020 Unnamed tributary to Arroyo Calabasas an area approximately 580 feet north east of the intersection of Long Valley Road and Twin Oaks Road.
Effective
Flooding
Revised
Flooding Increases Decreases
Zone A Zone AO YES YES
No BFEs* Depths YES NONE
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Reference No. Date FIRM Change Description
*Base Flood Elevations
17-09-0821P-060749
FIRM 06037C1269F
FIRM 06037C1267F
2/05/2018 McCoy Canyon Creek from approximately 270 feet upstream of Calabasas Road to approximately 1,830 feet upstream of Calabasas Road.
Effective
Flooding
Revised
Flooding Increases Decreases
Zone X Zone AE YES NONE
No BFEs BFEs YES NONE
*Base Flood Elevations
Table 156: FEMA Flood Map Revisions - Calabasas and Hidden Hills Malibu
Reference No. Date FIRM Change Description
23-09-0599P-060745
FIRMS :
06037C1511G
06037C1562G
06037C 1561G
06037C1543G
06037C1542G
06037C1541G
06037C1539G
06037C1538G
06037C1537G
06037C1536G
06037C1519G
06037C1513G
06037C1514G
04/21/2021 Pacific Ocean - From approximately 1,660 feet east of the intersection of Broad Beach Road and Victoria Point Road to approximately 670 feet east of the intersection of Broad Beach Road and State Route 1; From just west of to approximately 1,600 feet east of the intersection of Escondido Beach Road and State Route 1; From approximately 400 feet west to approximately 1,150 feet east of the intersection of Latigo Shore Place and Latigo Shore Drive; From approximately 560 feet west of the intersection of Corral Canyon Road and State Route 1 to approximately 440 feet east of the intersection of Puerco Canyon Road and State Route 1; From approximately 700 feet west of the intersection of Malibu Road and Malibu Colony Drive to just east of the intersection of Serra Road and State Route 1; From approximately 390 feet east of the intersection of Rambla Vis to approximately 1,290 feet west of the intersection of State Route 1 and Topanga Canyon Lane.
Effective
Flooding
Revised
Flooding Increases Decreases
BFEs* BFEs YES YES
Zone VE Zone VE YES YES
Zone VE Zone VE YES YES
Zone VE Zone VE YES YES
*Base Flood Elevations
Table 157: FEMA Flood Map Revisions – Malibu
On February 27, 2023 Malibu City staff presented the Council with an update on the New FEMA Floodplain maps that were approved by FEMA. The new FEMA floodplain maps will become effective 120 days after FEMA has notified the public through publication. The City completed a final analysis of 14 separate cross sections within the City and concluded that flood levels in the FEMA April 14, 2021 revised flood maps should be lower. FEMA preliminary approved the revisions and will create new revised maps.
Approximately Western Extent Old Base Flood
Elevation (BFE) New BFE Change (feet)
31340 Broad Beach Rd 31 25 -6
Escondido Canyon 23 21 -2
26770 Latigo Shore Dr 20 19 -1
26122 E Pacific Coast Hwy 20 13 -7
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Approximately Western Extent Old Base Flood
Elevation (BFE) New BFE Change (feet)
25442 Malibu Rd 31 24 -7
25302 Malibu Rd 31 29 -2
23832 Malibu Rd 19 18 -1
21756 E Pacific Coast Hwy 19 18 -1
21200 E Pacific Coast Hwy 20 19 -1
20806 E Pacific Coast Hwy 21 19 -2
20624 E Pacific Coast Hwy 21 19 -2
19936 E Pacific Coast Hwy 25 22 -3
19600 E Pacific Coast Hwy 28 27 -1
19252 E Pacific Coast Hwy 24 23 -1
Table 158: FEMA Flood Map Revision Update - Malibu
Westlake Village
No revisions to the FIRMs were made since 2018 however several amendments were implemented.
Reference No. Date FIRM Change Description
21-09-1113A-060744
FIRM : 06037C1239G
05/19/2021 Amendment: Lot 16 Tract 46039
Outcome Flood Zone
1% Annual
Chance Flood
Elevation
Lowest
Adjacent
Grade
Elevation
Structure X
(unshaded)
- 851.1 feet
Structure removed from the SFHA. A portion of this property is located within the Special Flood Hazard Area and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) regulatory
floodway for the flooding source indicated on the
Determination/Comment Document while the subject of this determination is not. Flooding Source: Triunfo Creek
20-09-2091A-060744
FIRM : 06037C1239G
12/07/2020 Amendment: Lot 17 Tract 46039
Outcome Flood Zone
1% Annual
Chance Flood
Elevation
Lowest
Adjacent
Grade
Elevation
Structure X
(unshaded)
- 849.0 feet
Using the information submitted and the effective National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) map, we have determined
that the structure(s) on the property(ies) is/are not located in the SFHA, an area inundated by the flood having a 1-percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year (base flood). This document amends the effective NFIP map to
remove the subject property from the SFHA located on the effective NFIP map; therefore, the Federal mandatory flood insurance requirement does not apply. However, the lender has the option to continue the flood insurance requirement to protect its financial risk on the loan. A Preferred Risk Policy (PRP) is available for buildings located outside the SFHA.
Information about the PRP and how one can apply is enclosed.
Flooding Source: Triunfo Creek
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Reference No. Date FIRM Change Description
20-09-2072A-060744
FIRM : 06037C1239G
10/26/2020 Amendment: Lot 57 Tract 46039
Outcome Flood Zone
1% Annual
Chance Flood
Elevation
Lowest
Adjacent
Grade
Elevation
Structure X
(shaded)
- 846.5 feet
This document revises the effective NFIP map to remove the subject property from the NFIP regulatory floodway and the SFHA located on the effective NFIP map; therefore, the
Federal mandatory flood insurance requirement does not
apply. However, the lender has the option to continue the flood insurance requirement to protect its financial risk on the loan. A Preferred Risk Policy (PRP) is available for buildings located outside the SFHA. Flooding Source: Triunfo Creek 19-09-0387A-060744
FIRM : 06037C1239G
02/25/2019 Amendment: Lot 56 Tract 46039
Outcome Flood Zone
1% Annual
Chance Flood
Elevation
Lowest
Adjacent
Grade
Elevation
Structure AE 845.7 feet 844.8 feet
Using the information submitted and the effective National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) map, we have determined
that the structure(s) on the property(ies) is/are located in the SFHA, an area inundated by the flood having a 1-percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year (base flood). Therefore, flood insurance is required for the property described above. The lowest adjacent grade elevation to a structure must be at or above the Base Flood Elevation for a structure to be outside of the SFHA. This determination is based on the flood data presently available. Flooding Source:
Triunfo Creek
19-09-0334A-060744
FIRM : 06037C1239G
12/28/2018 Amendment: Lot 69 Tract 26936
Outcome Flood Zone
1% Annual
Chance Flood
Elevation
Lowest
Adjacent
Grade
Elevation
Structure AE 877.1 feet 876.0 feet
This document provides the Federal Emergency Management Agency's determination regarding a request for a Letter of Map Amendment for the property described above. Using the information submitted and the effective National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP) map, we have determined that the structure(s) on the property(ies) is/are located in the SFHA, an area inundated by the flood having a 1-percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year (base flood).
Therefore, flood insurance is required for the property described above. The lowest adjacent grade elevation to a structure must be at or above the Base Flood Elevation for a structure to be outside of the SFHA. Flooding Source:
Westlake Lake
Table 159: FEMA Flood Map Amendments - Westlake Village Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Estimated Impact of an Event
If major flooding were to occur, the consequences to local populations, employment, and housing could be significant. The table below provides the estimated impact of a disaster using a 1% loss baseline (see Community Profile section for detailed demographic and economic data).
Category Agoura
Hills Calabasas Hidden Hills Malibu Westlake Village
Impact if a
1% Loss
Occurs
Population* 20,362 23,410 2,182 10,915 8,081 650
Total City
Employment
11,100 11,800 4.5 6,483 3,700 330
Economy**
(in thousands)
$621,000 $1,011,348 N/A $578,443 $576,306 $27,871
Total OwnerOccupied Units 5,861 6,010 603 3,395 2,492 184 Median Home
Value $857,700 $1,141,600 $2,000,000+ $2,000,000+ $1,029,100 More than
$258M
(based on an average
home value of
$1,405,680 x Total
Owner Occupied Units
Impacted)
Table 160: Estimated Population and Economic Loss of Floods *Source U.S. Census Bureau 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate **2017 U.S. Economic Census (in thousands)
Based on a 1% loss projection, approximately 650 people could be displaced or significantly impacted, and approximately 184 homes could be damaged or destroyed resulting in over $258 million in losses based on an average home value of $1,405,680 and damage to 184 owner occupied units (see Community Profile section for population, housing, and economic data).
Impact of Climate Change
Each city within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) are subject to the regional impacts of climate change. Periods of extreme weather such as severe winter storms and flooding are expected to continue as weather patterns change. Specific areas of concern within the LVMCOG include hillside landslides and sink holes (all cities) as well as flooding near riverine zones (especially in Malibu, Westlake Village, Calabasas, and Agoura Hills) as well as the potential for an overflow of the reservoir dam in Westlake Village.
Additionally, flooding will cause numerous transportation issues for all LVMCOG cities if freeways and major routes are inundated. In particular, smaller roads through the Santa Monica Mountains between Malibu and Agoura Hills, Calabasas, and Westlake Village can become blocked due to downed trees and power lines as well as road damage.
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Impact of Land Use and Development
City Impact of Land Use and Development
Agoura Hills New development projects within Agoura Hills limited according to the city’s development plan and other restrictions to mitigate the impact of floods.
Developed commercial zones in low lying areas could be temporarily impacted by severe flood and residential properties located near hillsides and lower elevations may be at greater risk of mudslides and flood. If a flood were to occur, future development densities especially in hillside areas could be further limited to mitigate the impact of flooding.
Calabasas New development in the city are restricted to areas according to the city’s development plan. Furthermore, existing commercial and residential projects within Calabasas must comply with drainage and other flood control requirements to mitigate the impacts of water inundation. Nevertheless, residential areas are located in the Calabasas hillsides and are at greater risk of flooding and mudslides. Additionally, if a major flood occurs, future development plans may increase the number of restrictions on new development or redevelopment projects, particularly residential properties in hillside areas.
Hidden Hills As a fully developed community there is little room for new construction projects in Hidden Hills so no changes in residential patterns are anticipated if a flood occurs. In addition, due to the geography of the area, severe flooding is not anticipated. Nevertheless, if a flood occurs or other secondary impacts such as landslides/mudslides, future building restrictions or requirements could be implemented to further mitigate the potential for future damage.
Malibu New development within Malibu is significantly restricted due to coastal constraints. Areas along the shoreline are susceptible to flooding due to sea level rise (see Tsunami and Sea Level Rise section) as well as erosion. Additionally, several streams pass through the Santa Monica Mountains to the ocean in Malibu. These areas can experience damage due to flood inundation and extreme water flows. In addition, the hillside and mountain areas of Malibu are vulnerable to flood caused mudslides and landslides. Consequently, structures in these areas (especially cliff side development and those located in isolated roads) may face future restrictions or may be converted to wildland if reconstruction is not feasible.
Westlake Village Westlake Village maintains regulations and requirements to mitigate the impact of flooding. Regardless, if extreme flooding in the area were to occur, there are several streams within Westlake Village subject to inundation and the reservoir may overflow resulting in downstream flooding which may result in changes to land use patterns due to additional development constraints especially those areas located in the hillsides and low lying streams in the city.
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Impact of Population Patterns
City Impact of Population Patterns
Agoura Hills In recent years, the population of Agoura Hills has shown a slight decrease.
Although construction in flood prone areas is managed by local regulations and development plans, as new development projects are completed within Agoura Hills, an increase in the population and population densities may be expected.
As a consequence if a flood occurs, a larger number of residents can be expected to be impacted due to the direct impact of floods as well as secondary effects such as landslides, mudslides, and sink holes. Further, future flooding could result in additional restrictions on rebuilding efforts in flood prone areas resulting in a change in population patterns.
Calabasas The population of Calabasas has shown a minor decrease since the previous HMP update. Consequently, it is not anticipated that an increase in the risk to local residents due to flooding will occur and population patterns are expected to remain unchanged.
Hidden Hills Recently, the population of Hidden Hills has shown a slight decrease and residential neighborhoods are well established. However, as local residents age, there may be an increase in the number of vulnerable individuals in terms of age and disabilities which can require additional services following a flood as well as the secondary impacts of floods such as landslides, mudslides, sink holes, and power outages. Consequently, a shift in population patterns may occur following severe flooding in the area if older populations choose to relocate.
Malibu The population of Malibu has shown a minor decrease since the last census.
Reconstruction of areas damaged by flood or secondary impacts such as landslides or mudslides may result in a shift in local population densities and could even result in an increase in the amount of wildland areas where future development is prohibited leading to a slight reduction in the local population.
Westlake Village The population of Westlake Village has slightly decreased since the previous HMP update. However as local area development / redevelopment projects occur, there is the potential for an increase in the number of people at risk of a flooding as well as an increase in the number of vulnerable individuals in terms of age and disabilities which can require additional services following a flood and the secondary impacts of floods such as landslides and mudslides.
Consequently, if a severe flood were to occur, future population densities may shift due to additional limits to construction/reconstruction in flood prone areas especially downstream from the reservoir as well as in areas prone to landslide.
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Risk of Future Severe Winter Storm (including Flood)
For the LVMCOG Region, the risk of future climate change events was estimated by the Working Group using the following weighted formula:
Probability Magnitude / Severity Warning Time Duration
Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Unlikely 1 Negligible 1 Less than 6 hrs 4 Less than 6 hrs 1 Possibly 2 Limited 2 6 to 12 hrs 3 Less than 24 hrs 2
Likely 3 Critical 3 12 to 24 hrs 2 Less than one wk 3
Highly Likely 4 Catastrophic 4 More than 24 hrs 1 More than one wk 4 The result was a climate change risk rating of 4.57 (see Annex C Working Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey for additional details):
Hazard Probability Magnitude Warning
Time Duration Risk
Severe Winter
Storm (including
Flood)
4.33 6 3 3.67 4.57
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FLOOD VULNERABILITIES
The major concern regarding the impact on communities from flood events is the loss of life and property. Critical infrastructure failures are also a threat and may require days or weeks to repair.
Similarly, the impact to business and industry can result in immediate and long term economic loss.
For the LVMCOG region, specific parts of each city vulnerable to flooding include areas below the local hillsides and mountain regions as well as riverine pathways and in northern and southern Agoura Hills, southern and western areas of Calabasas, southern and western Hidden Hills, the Santa Monica Mountain areas of Malibu and Malibu Lagoon, and southern Westlake Village especially downstream of the reservoir. In additional to the vulnerability of the local population in terms of life and safety, floods can have long term impacts to local businesses, commercial facilities, and industry from damage to facilities and equipment. Additionally, critical infrastructure can be significantly damaged from flooding. Examples of vulnerabilities include the following in terms of property loss, critical infrastructure, and business and industry.
Property Loss
Extensive damage can be caused by flooding and landslide damage related to soil saturation from flood events. The type of property damage caused by flood events depends on the location, depth, and velocity of flood waters. Flood waters can wash buildings off foundations and sweep personal property downstream. For the cities within the LVMCOG residential, commercial, and public properties are subject to flood (see Annex F: Flood Insurance Rate Maps for specific areas at higher risk).
In addition, as a coastal community multiple properties in the City of Malibu are at risk from flooding from tsunami, storm surge, and/or severe winter storms. For example, numerous beach front properties are sometimes located very close to the surf line.
Map 82: Malibu Flood Insurance Rate Map, Panel 1511
Properties along the coast include private homes, businesses, and recreational areas including Malibu Lagoon. High surf can have a significant impact on these locations. Furthermore, storm run-off areas where mountain streams travel to the ocean are at risk of flood during severe storms.
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Critical Infrastructure
Critical infrastructure can be damaged during floods especially when high water levels combine with flood debris. Damage can occur to water and sewer systems, electrical supplies, pipelines, transportation networks, emergency facilities, communications networks, and other essential sites.
Furthermore, contamination of underground wells and reservoirs can impact local water supplies.
Finally, flood waters and debris can overflow local storm water systems causing traffic disruptions and pose a hazard to the health of the local community. Furthermore, Pacific Coast Highway is the major transportation route and means of ingress/egress for the City of Malibu and sections of the highway are located very close to the shoreline.
Map 83: Malibu Coastline Example
Business and Industry
Flood events impact businesses by damaging property and interrupting access by employees, suppliers, and customers. Furthermore, a loss of utilities caused by flooding can prevent businesses and industry from functioning. In addition, local or regional flooding can result in lower worker productivity, disrupt traffic, and increase commute times. Moreover, multiple businesses in the City of Malibu are located along the coastline and are at greater risk of flooding from tsunami, storm surge, and/or severe winter storms. Also, many of these businesses in Malibu are dependent on tourism (e.g., hotels/rental housing, attractions, gift shops, restaurants, etc.) as well as ocean recreation and commerce such as boating, fishing, kayaking/wind sailing, surfing, and beach traffic.
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VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
In Agoura Hills, the elderly and those speaking languages other than English are particularly vulnerable during floods. The elderly may face increased risk of injury or drowning due to mobility issues and slower response times, making evacuation and accessing higher ground challenging.
Non-English speakers may struggle with understanding flood warnings and evacuation orders, potentially leading to delays in response and higher danger levels.
Calabasas residents, including those on fixed incomes, transitory workers, homeless individuals, and elderly or disabled residents, face significant risks during floods. Fixed-income residents may lack the resources to repair flood damage or relocate. Transitory workers and homeless individuals often lack stable housing, making it difficult to find safe, dry shelter. Elderly and disabled residents may experience significant difficulty in evacuating quickly and safely, potentially leading to higher injury rates.
In Hidden Hills, the older population, households with disabilities, and those with limited transportation capabilities are at substantial risk from floods. Older adults and those with disabilities may find it challenging to evacuate swiftly and access higher ground, and limited transportation options can leave these individuals stranded in flood-prone areas. Additionally, floodwaters can pose serious health threats to these populations.
Malibu's transitory workers, elderly population, lower-income residents, and homeless individuals are particularly vulnerable during floods. Transitory workers and the homeless often lack stable housing, increasing their risk of exposure to floodwaters. Elderly individuals may struggle with mobility issues that hinder quick evacuation, and lower-income residents may lack the financial means to repair flood damage or relocate, increasing their vulnerability during floods.
In Westlake Village, the elderly, disabled, homeless individuals, and residents speaking a language other than English are highly vulnerable during floods. The elderly and disabled may face increased injury risks and difficulty evacuating and accessing higher ground. Homeless individuals may lack shelter and resources, making them extremely vulnerable. Non-English speakers may have difficulty understanding flood warnings and evacuation orders, leading to delayed responses and increased risk.
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FLOOD, TSUNAMI, STORM SURGE, AND SEVERE WINTER STORM HAZARD
IDENTIFICATION MITIGATION STRATEGIES
National Flood Insurance Program
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is a Federal program created by Congress to mitigate future flood losses nationwide through sound, community-enforced building and zoning ordinances and to provide access to affordable, federally backed flood insurance protection for property owners. The NFIP is designed to provide an insurance alternative to disaster assistance to meet the escalating costs of repairing damage to buildings and their contents caused by floods.
The U.S. Congress established the NFIP on August 1, 1968, with the passage of the National Flood Insurance Act (NFIA) of 1968. The NFIP was broadened and modified with the passage of the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 and other legislative measures. It was further modified by the National Flood Insurance Reform Act (NFIRA) of 1994 and the Flood Insurance Reform Act (FIRA) of 2004.
The NFIP is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), a component of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). In support of the NFIP, FEMA identifies flood hazard areas throughout the United States and its territories. Most areas of flood hazard are commonly identified on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). A FIRM is an official map of a community on which FEMA has delineated both the special hazard areas and the risk premium zones applicable to the community.
Areas not yet identified by a FIRM may be mapped on Flood Hazard Boundary Maps (FHBMs).
Several areas of flood hazards are identified on these maps. One of these areas is the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
The SFHA is a high-risk area defined as any land that would be inundated by a flood having a 1- percent chance of occurring in a given year (also referred to as the base flood). The high-risk-area standard constitutes a reasonable compromise between the need for building restrictions to minimize potential loss of life and property and the economic benefits to be derived from floodplain development. Development may take place within an SFHA, provided that development complies with local floodplain management ordinances, which must meet the minimum Federal requirements. Flood insurance is required for insurable structures within high-risk areas to protect Federal financial investments and assistance used for acquisition and/or construction purposes within communities participating in the NFIP.
Flood is defined in the Standard Flood Insurance Policy (SFIP), in part, as: A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or of two or more properties (at least one of which is your property) from overflow of inland or tidal waters, from unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source, or from mudflow.
The National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 allows FEMA to make flood insurance available only in those areas where the appropriate public body has adopted adequate floodplain management regulations for its flood-prone areas. Individual citizens cannot regulate building or establish construction priorities for communities. Without community oversight of building activities in the floodplain, the best efforts of some to reduce future flood losses could be undermined or nullified Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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by the careless building of others. Unless the community as a whole is practicing adequate flood hazard mitigation, the potential for loss will not be reduced sufficiently to affect disaster relief costs. Insurance rates also would reflect the probable higher losses that would result without local floodplain management enforcement activities.
Participation in the NFIP is based on an agreement between local communities and the Federal Government that states that if a community will adopt and enforce a floodplain management ordinance to reduce future flood risks to new construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), the Federal Government will make flood insurance available within the community as a financial protection against flood losses.
Each city within the Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (see FEMA Community Status Book Report: California table following) and the ongoing eligibility requirements are specified under 44CFR§59.21. Copies of current FIRMs are provided in Annex F: Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
CID Community
Name County
Init
FHBM
Identified
Init
FIRM
Identified
Curr Eff
Map Date
Reg-Emer
Date Tribal
065072C AGOURA HILLS LOS ANGELES 03/04/86 04/04/18 03/04/86 No 060749# CALABASAS LOS ANGELES 12/2/80 12/21/18 03/10/93 No 060125# HIDDEN HILLS LOS ANGELES 04/23/76 09/07/84 (NSFHA) 09/07/84 No 060745# MALIBU LOS ANGELES 09/26/08 04/21/21 10/01/92 No 060744C WESTLAKE
VILLAGE
LOS ANGELES 09/26/08 04/04/18 10/1/92 No
Table 161: FEMA Community Status Book Report: California Source: https://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance/work-with-nfip/community-status-book Note: A Non-Special Flood Hazard Area (NSFHA) is an area that is in a moderate-to-low risk flood zone (Zones B, C, X Pre- and Post-FIRM). An NSFHA is not in any immediate danger from flooding caused by overflowing rivers or hard rains. However, it’s important to note that structures within a NSFHA are still at risk LVMCOG Mitigation Activities
Flooding is often a regional problem that crosses multiple jurisdictional boundaries. Flood risks are greatest and flood hazards most severe during the winter “wet season” when water bodies may become full and soils saturated. Although flooding is primarily a natural process and is therefore difficult to prevent, urbanization, land use, and development decisions have a significant effect on the frequency and severity of floods.
Flood mitigation activities include enforcement of building codes, zoning codes, and various planning strategies to address development in areas of known hazards and applying the appropriate safeguards. Furthermore, all cities within the Las Virgenes Malibu Council of Governments have assessed their flood hazards and participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works (LACDPW) is responsible for regional flood control within the County. Flood mitigation measures include an extensive storm drain and flood control system.
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Agoura Hills
The City of Agoura Hills provides residents with
flood facts via its web site. This includes
general information and response guidance.
Further, the Los Angeles County Department of
Public Works (LACDPW) presently owns and
maintains three major flood control facilities in
Agoura Hills. These facilities are the Lindero
Canyon Channel, the Chesebro Canyon
Channel, and parts of Medea Creek. Two major
drainage channels not maintained by the
LACDPW are the Palo Comado Canyon and
Liberty Canyon. With the exception of the Palo
Comado Canyon, these drainages are
unchannelized or are maintained as semi-natural
and are located in open space corridors.
The Lindero Canyon Channel provides flood
protection for the west drainage flow from
Lindero Canyon. This canyon extends into
Ventura Canyon, well beyond the City of
Agoura Hills northerly boundary.
The Chesebro Canyon Channel provides controlled drainage for the east drainage area of the City. Chesebro Canyon Channel intercepts the flows from Chesebro Canyon, and Palo Comado Canyon. Both canyons extend into Ventura Canyon, beyond the City of Agoura Hills northern boundary line.
Medea Creek is partially improved between the Ventura Freeway and north to the Ventura County line. Medea Creek provides flood control protection for the central drainage area of the City. Medea Creek intercepts flow from Medea Creek Canyon, extending into Ventura County.
FEMA has identified several Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) within Agoura Hills. Within these zones, the City of Agoura Hills enforces floodplain management standards as issued by FEMA. These standards are designed to prevent new development from increasing the flood threat and protect new and existing buildings from anticipated flood events.
Per FEMA, a SFHA is an area having special flood, mudflow or flood-related erosion hazards and shown on a Flood Hazard Boundary Map (FHBM) or a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) Zone A, AO, A1-A30, AE, A99, AH, AR, AR/A, AR/AE, AR/AH, AR/AO, AR/A1-A30, V1-V30, VE or V. The SFHA is the area where the National Flood Insurance Program's (NFIP's) floodplain management regulations must be enforced and the area where the mandatory purchase of flood insurance applies. For the purpose of determining Community Rating System (CRS) premium discounts, all AR and A99 zones are treated as non-SFHAs.
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Map 84: City of Agoura Hills Flood Areas
Source: City of Agoura Hills, General Plan 2035 EIR
Development under the City’s General Plan could place structures within the SFHA, but not in a manner that would substantially impede or redirect flows. Adherence to development policies as well as state and federal regulations reduces the flood threat. Furthermore, as part of development project reviews, the City requires that a drainage plan and study be submitted, as appropriate. The following policies have been implemented in Agoura Hills. These policies guide the City in its continued compliance with NFIP guidelines and in reducing present and future flood hazards.
Policy Description
S-1.1 Coordination of Drainage Improvements. Locate and improve deficiencies in the storm drain system to prevent local flooding problems in the City.
S-1.2 New Development. Require new development to upgrade storm drains to handle the increased runoff generated from the development sites.
S-1.3 Facility Use or Storage of Hazardous Materials. Require that all facilities storing, using, or otherwise involved with substantial quantities of on-site hazardous materials within flood zones comply with applicable standards of elevation, anchoring, and flood proofing, and that hazardous materials be stored in watertight containers.
S-1.4 SEMS Plan. Ensure that the City's Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) Plan is evaluated annually and revised as required, that the current mitigation strategies addressing flood hazards are implemented, and that effective public outreach and education are included.
S-1.5 Preservation of the Flood Plains. Preservation of the flood plains as open space shall be considered, as feasible, as an alternative to channelization.
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Policy Description
S-1.6 Floodplain Requirements. Regulate development within floodplains in accordance with the County, state, and federal requirements, and maintain the City's eligibility under the National Flood Insurance Program.
S-1.7 Flood Mitigation Design. Require that new development incorporates sufficient measures to mitigate flood hazards, including the design of on-site drainage systems linking with citywide storm drainage, grading of the site so that runoff does not impact adjacent properties or structures on the site, and elevation of any structures above any flooding elevation.
The map below provides a view of the Flood Insurance Rate Map area for the City of Agoura Hills.
Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are located in Annex F.
Map 85: City of Agoura Hills Flood Insurance Rate Map
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Calabasas
Calabasas facilitates efforts with local, state, and federal agencies, including special districts to address flooding issues. Development is generally discouraged in flood-prone areas and individual developers in Calabasas are required to mitigate their potential contributions to downstream flooding problems. Any structures placed within the SFHA, will not be built in a manner that would substantially impede or redirect flows. Adherence to development policies as well as state and federal regulations reduces impacts from flooding in Calabasas to less than significant levels.
The map below depicts FEMA designated flood zones in Calabasas. Small portions of western Calabasas (purple shaded areas) is within the 100-year floodplain; however, the majority of the City is not located within any designated Special Flood Hazard Areas.
Map 86: Drainages and Floodways in Calabasas
The following policies are outlined in the 2030 City of Calabasas General Plan Safety Element.
These policies guide the City in its continued compliance with NFIP guidelines and in reducing present and future flood hazards.
Policy Description
VII-11 Incorporate adequate mitigation measures into proposed development projects to achieve an acceptable level of risk from potential flooding hazards. Mitigation measures should also address projected flooding impacts from climate change.
VII-12 Strongly discourage development within flood hazard areas and encourage retention of natural drainage as the City’s preferred management strategy, and as a higher priority than attempting to implement engineering solutions.
VII-13 Ensure that new flood control and drainage facilities as well as improvements to existing facilities are consistent with the General Plan’s environmental protection standards.
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Policy Description
VII-14 For discretionary development projects, limit new impervious surfaces to those that will not individually or cumulatively increase harmful runoff into natural stream channels downstream.
VII-15 Setbacks from stream beds should be sufficient to avoid possible adverse effects associated with future stream bank erosion.
VII-16 Whenever feasible, locate essential public facilities, including health care facilities, emergency shelters, fire stations, emergency command centers, and emergency communications facilities, outside flood hazard zones.
The map below provides a view of the Flood Insurance Rate Map area for the City of Calabasas.
Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are located in Annex F.
Map 87: City of Calabasas Flood Insurance Rate Map ID
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Hidden Hills
There are no year-round streams or ponds within the city. Surface water runoff only occurs during and after periods of intense rainfall. The City’s topography and soil conditions subject Hidden Hills to flood hazards from storm drain overflow, erosion, mudflows, and debris deposits. There are no Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) in the city of Hidden Hills. For this reason, there are no FEMA mandated floodplain management requirements to which Hidden Hills must adhere in order to participate in the NFIP.
Hidden Hills has implemented building code 3319.1 as a preventative measure for loss of life and property due to a flood event. Key Provisions of section 3319.1 include:
Category Description
Building Limitations Buildings are not permitted in an area determined by the City Engineer to be subject to flood hazard by reason of inundation, overflow or erosion, or where the placement of a building or other structures on the site is such that water or mud flows will be a hazard to buildings on adjacent property. The building official, in application of this subsection shall enforce, as a minimum, the current Federal Flood Plain Management Regulations defined in Title 44, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 60.3.
Site Restrictions A person shall not perform work for which a building or grading permit is required within the boundaries of an established floodway, as determined by the City Engineer, if such work increases the flood hazard to adjacent properties by either increasing the capital flood water surface elevation, deflecting flows or increasing bank erosion. Such work may be performed within an established floodway and a building or grading permit therefore may be issued, where provisions are made to the satisfaction of the City Engineer to avoid such as increase in the flood hazard.
Los Angeles County
Flood Control District
The Los Angeles County Flood Control District shall act as a consultant to the City Engineer in permit matters relating to flood control and flood hazard identification, avoidance and mitigation in all areas defined on maps furnished to the Engineer.
These standards are designed to prevent new development and site modifications from increasing the threat of flood and to protect new and existing buildings from future flood events.
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The map below provides a view of the Flood Insurance Rate Map area for the City of Hidden Hills. Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are located in Annex F Map 88: City of Hidden Hills Flood Insurance Rate Map ID Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Malibu
The City of Malibu is the only coastal community within the Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments. The City extends 21 miles along the Pacific coast. In addition to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the City also contains multiple riparian zones that are subject to flood.
Development under the City’s General Plan could place structures within the SFHA, but not in a manner that would substantially impede or redirect flows. Adherence to development policies as well as state and federal regulations reduces impacts from flooding to less than significant levels.
FEMA has identified areas within Malibu as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA). The map below provides a view of the Flood Insurance Rate Map zones for the City of Malibu. Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are located in the Annex F.
All development, redevelopment, remodels and repairs in a mapped FEMA Flood Zone must meet FEMA and City of Malibu Floodplain Ordinance. All development projects submitted to the Planning Department will be reviewed by the Public Works Department to verify that the project will meet the FEMA Regulations and the City's Floodplain Ordinance. Some projects may be required to elevate the structure above the flood base flood elevation and execute a FEMA Elevation Certificate.
Map 89: City of Malibu Flood Insurance Rate Map ID and Zones Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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The following policies are outlined in the City of Malibu General Plan. These policies guide the City in its continued compliance with NFIP guidelines and in reducing present and future flood hazards.
General Plan Section Description
Objective 1.2 Risks to residents and businesses from development in hazardous areas are minimized.
Policy 1.2.3 The City shall require development to provide for safety from coastal storm flooding, coastal erosion, surfacing septic effluent, and tsunami.
Policy 1.2.4 The City shall require development to be consistent with minimum Federal Management Agency (FEMA) guidelines for flood plain management.
Implementation
Measure 40
Adopt and update as appropriate maps of extreme fire danger areas, 100-year flood plains, landslide and debris flow danger, active and potentially active faults, tsunami, and any other hazard areas; and inform residents of those areas of risks and possible mitigation measures.
Implementation
Measure 43
Encourage area residents to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program.
Implementation
Measure 44
Design coastal development, except supporting structure, to be above the wave uprush level for storms within the past 100-Years, and above the 100- year flood plain.
Implementation
Measure 51
Evaluate proposed development for its impact on and from, geologic hazards, flood and mud flow hazard, and fire hazard.
In 2008 the City of Malibu received the Nation Weather Service “Storm Ready” Award. As a consequence, the City is eligible for NFIP premium reductions.
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Westlake Village
Flood hazard areas within the City of Westlake Village are focused on the Triunfo Canyon drainage below Westlake Lake and the banks of the lake itself. A storm drain system has been constructed in the vicinity of the canyon to moderate the effects of storm runoff.
The Los Angeles County Flood Control District has prepared a Triunfo Creek Floodway Map (LACFCD 154-ML2, Ord. 81-0021), which defines the physical limits of the flood hazard and the minimum floor elevations required for structures outside the hazard area. Any development within the canyon will be subject to the review and approval of the District.
Development on the shores of Westlake Lake has been set back several feet from the highest water level which could be expected to occur. This setback is recognized as a flood hazard area and is maintained as open space. The “spillover” design of the Westlake Lake dam ensures that flooding beyond the lake’s banks cannot occur.
Urban flooding can sometimes be possible due to debris accumulation on storm drains and in flood control channels and basins, over-burdened pumping stations and aged drainage systems. Lowlying areas are particularly susceptible to urban flooding.
There are no specific areas identified as frequent drainage problems. However, the general areas most susceptible are those around the Westlake Lake since this is the lowest elevation level in the City. These areas include First Neighborhood, Lakeshore, and Southshore.
In addition, the City of Westlake Village web site provides flood and mudflow preparation and mitigation guidance to residents following wildfires (such as post Woolsey Fire preparation). This information includes where to obtain sandbags; precautions for areas around flood control
channels, catch basins, canyons and natural waterways;
road hazards; burn debris removal; utilities (electrical and gas shutoffs); and flood insurance.
Further, the site provides links to social media sources for alerts and information:
Los Angeles County Fire Department (on “X”) @LACoFDPIO
@LASDHQ
Los Angeles County Public Works (on “X”) @LACoPublicWorks City of Westlake Village Facebook @CityofWestlakeVillage The City complies with program requirements through the adoption and implementation of a flood plain management ordinance, which is coordinated by the City Engineer. This ordinance requires new development to meet certain standards to reduce the risk of future flood damage. Implementation of the program on the local level ensures that flood insurance will be available to local residents.
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The following goals, policies, and programs are outlined in the City of Westlake Village General Plan Hazards Section. The goals and policies described guide the City in its continued compliance with NFIP guidelines and in reducing present and future flood hazards.
General Plan
Section Description
Goal It shall be the goal of the City of Westlake Village to: Minimize hazards to public health, safety, and welfare which may result from geologic conditions, seismic activity, and flooding.
Objective 1 and
Policy
It shall be the objective of the City of Westlake Village to: Provide for an efficient and safe evacuation of the community in the event of a major disaster.
It shall be the policy of the City of Westlake Village to:
1-1 Maintain an effective Citywide Emergency Preparedness Plan. 1-2 Encourage community volunteers to assist police, fire, and civil defense personnel during and after a major earthquake, fire, or flood.
Objective 2 and
Policy
It shall be the objective of the city of Westlake Village to: Ensure that construction and development activities within the community do not expose residents to avoidable natural hazards.
It shall be the policy of the City of Westlake Village to:
2-1 Require the preparation of a detailed geologic and soils report to accompany each grading permit application in all hillside management areas. 2-2 Prohibit the placement of structures for human habitation within flood prone areas unless the flood hazard is eliminated by measures that do not impair the carrying capacity of the watercourse.
2-3 Enforce the provisions of the Uniform Building Code, specifically Chapters 23 and 70 as they related to earthquake-resistant design and excavation and grading.
Implementation
Programs
I-1 Continue to update the Citywide Emergency Preparedness Plan as new information becomes available.
I-2 Periodically distribute an updated pamphlet which informs individual residents of their responsibilities for emergency preparedness.
I-3 Support training programs to train volunteers to assist police, fire protection and civil defense personnel during and after a seismic, fire or flooding event.
I-4 Continue to implement the provisions of the Hillside Management ordinance and coordinate with the Los Angeles County Building and Safety Department so all applicable grading and development standards are implemented.
I-5 Coordinate with the Los Angeles County Flood Control district to ensure that potential flooding hazards associated with proposed new development are fully mitigated.
I-6 Coordinate with the Los Angeles County Building and Safety Department in the review of all development proposals, ensuring Chapters 23 and 70 of the Uniform Building Code are enforced.
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FEMA has identified areas within Westlake Village as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA), including Lindero Canyon which mostly lies within Agoura Hills. Within these zones Westlake Village has chosen to adopt and enforce minimum floodplain management standards as dictated by FEMA. These standards are designed to prevent new development from increasing the flood threat and to protect new and existing buildings from anticipated flood events.
The map below provides a view of the Flood Insurance Rate Map area for the City of Westlake Village. Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are located in Annex F.
Map 90: City of Westlake Village Flood Insurance Rate Map ID Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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SECTION 13. TSUNAMI
THE NATURE OF THE FLOOD, TSUNAMI THREAT
The Las Virgenes-Malibu area is situated near the western portion of the Santa Monica Mountains and has experienced flooding in the past from major winter storm events. Flooding poses a threat to life and safety and can cause severe damage to public and private property. Due to the natural mountainous terrain as well as changes in the landscape (due to development) and natural disasters such as wildfire, flooding can be a factor in the area. In addition, the City of Malibu coastline is at risk of tsunami. Although the risk is relatively low, flooding due to tsunami can occur.
HISTORICAL RECORD OF TSUNAMI EVENTS
History of Tsunami in Southern California
Historically, the region has not experienced a large number of Tsunami events. The NBC Los Angeles article “List: Historic Tsunamis on California's Coast” and The Mercury News article:
“California’s 5 most deadly, devastating tsunamis” has documented the following Tsunami events in Southern California since 1812.
Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
12/21/1812 A magnitude-7.2 earthquake in the Santa Barbara channel generated a tsunami.
Low lying areas of Santa Barbara and
Ventura were flooded, the temblor itself
damaged several missions and Native
American villages, while the tsunami was
reported as far north as San Francisco. The
waves also lifted up a 283-ton ship, which
had been searching the coast for otter pelts,
pushing up a half mile inland then carrying it
back out to sea
4/1/1946 An undersea magnitude-7.4-magnitude earthquake off Alaska triggered a massive tsunami
It hit the California Coast, with nearly 15-
foot-high waves hitting areas near Half Moon
Bay. The waves caused flooding, toppled
beachside buildings near Half Moon Bay
tossed fishing boats as far as a quarter mile
inland.
3/28/1964 A magnitude-9.2 earthquake off Alaska’s produced a powerful wave, cresting at nearly 21 feet.
Powerful waves hit coastal areas, including
the Northern California community of
Crescent City, where 11 people were killed.
A surge about 20-feet high flooded nearly 30
city blocks, according to the Department of
Conservation. A total of more than 100
people in the tsunami zone, from Alaska and
down the Pacific coasts of Canada and the
United States, were killed.
3/11/2011 A magnitude-9.0 earthquake in the Tohoku region of Japan led strong tsunami currents.
Powerful waves crossed the Pacific Ocean
and caused $100 million worth of damage to
California ports and harbors, including those
in Crescent City and Santa Cruz, more than
400 miles to the south.
Table 162: Tsunami Events in Southern California 1812 - 2011 SOURCES: List: Historic Tsunamis on California’s Coast – NBC Los Angeles, California's 5 most deadly, devastating tsunamis (mercurynews.com), 1812 California Tsunami Carried a Ship Inland - Los Angeles Times (latimes.com), Tsunami:
Santa Cruz harbor dock destroyed, man swept out to sea near Klamath River – The Mercury News Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Disasters Declarations and Emergency Proclamations
FEMA disaster declarations allow state, tribal, and local governments to access federal aid for disaster response and recovery when overwhelmed. Similarly, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) issues proclamations to mobilize state resources and streamline procedures.
FEMA Disasters Declarations
No disaster declarations.
Cal OES Open State of Emergency Proclamations
No open emergency proclamations declared.
CAUSES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF TSUNAMI
A tsunami is a series of ocean waves with very long wavelengths (often hundreds of kilometers) caused by large-scale disturbances of the ocean, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, underwater landslides, or even meteorite impacts. According to FEMA, they can be unpredictable, continue for hours and cause severe damage along coastal communities. Most of the damage found in the aftermath of a tsunami is due to the surge of water, wave impacts, strong currents, erosion, and debris.
Causes
The most common cause of tsunamis is underwater earthquakes, particularly those that occur along tectonic plate boundaries, where one plate subducts beneath another or where plates slide past each other horizontally. Volcanic activity, especially if it occurs underwater, can displace large volumes of water and generate tsunamis. Sudden shifts of underwater sediment or rock can displace water and create tsunamis.
Characteristics
Tsunamis have very long wavelengths compared to ordinary ocean waves. This means they can travel across entire ocean basins with relatively little loss of energy. In deep ocean water, tsunamis can travel at speeds of up to 500-800 kilometers per hour (310-500 miles per hour). However, as they approach shallow coastal waters, their speed decreases, and their height increases. Despite their high speed, tsunamis may not be noticeable in deep water because their height is often only a few centimeters to a meter or so. As tsunamis approach shallow coastal areas, their energy becomes concentrated, causing them to rise into towering waves that can travel far inland, flooding coastal regions and causing widespread destruction. Before the arrival of a tsunami, coastal waters may recede significantly, exposing the ocean floor.
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STAKEHOLDER INPUT AND PARTICIPATION
To identify the threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences of a major tsunami on the Las VirgenesMalibu Region, each member of the Planning Group which included representatives from the cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village provided their input during planning meetings (see Annex B: Meeting Agendas and Attendees) and follow-up discussions. Specific topics of discussion included if any changes to the hazard priorities have changed since the previous HMP, how changes in the community have impacted the risk of each hazard, and what new mitigation actions can be taken. In addition, each member of the Planning Group as well as members of the public provided the input via online surveys (see Annex C:
Community Disaster Preparedness and Risk Survey, Annex D: Planning Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey, and Annex E: Planning and Public Involvement).
TSUNAMI HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Las Virgenes-Malibu Tsunami Probability
According to the FEMA National Risk Index, the Los Angeles region records the chance of a tsunami at 0 events per year. While this measure is for the Los Angeles region, the City of Malibu may be more at risk. The FEMA National Risk Index also records 53 tsunami events in the region from 1800-2021.
Tsunami
The City of Malibu is the only city within the LVMCOG that is adjacent to the Pacific Ocean and does not have a record of a tsunami in the past, however the risk cannot be fully eliminated.
Map 91: City of Malibu Boundaries and Coastline
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In 2021, Los Angeles County updated its Tsunami Hazard Maps to include a 1,000-year event an d a presentation given to the community on April 13, 2021. The California Geological Survey mapped the areas of tsunami risk in the state which included the entire Malibu coastline.
Map 92: Malibu Tsunami Risk
Source: California Geological
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A 2013, a USGS study32 developed a hypothetical but plausible tsunami scenario created by an earthquake of magnitude 9.1 along a fault length of 360 km in the Semidi subduction sector off the coast of Alaska. Based on this scenario, the study stated that, “The SAFRR tsunami scenario demonstrates that many of the currently eroding beaches will have severe tsunami impacts and are at risk of beach loss. Malibu Beach will experience tsunami amplitudes of up to 2.5 m. Current velocities will average 2–3 m/s with some shoreline velocities of 5–8 m/s. The results show that much of the beach will be repeatedly inundated, as will several beach-front properties, including many high value homes.”
Additionally, Cal OES provides a map outlining the tsunami hazard areas as well as the risk associated with the hazard.
Figure 118: Cal OES Tsunami Hazard Area and Risk
32 Brosnan, Wein, and Wilson, SAFRR Tsunami Scenario – Impacts on California Ecosystems, Species, Marine Natural Resources, and Fisheries, 2013 (USGS Open File Report 2013-1170-G).
Map 93: Malibu Tsunami Hazard Area
Source: Cal OES
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Specific parts of Malibu most at tsunami risk include lower lying stream run-off / canyon areas and Malibu Lagoon (Source: Los Angeles, Bureau of Land Management, Esri, HERE, Garmin, INCREMENT P, USGS, METI/NASA, EPA, and USDA).
Map 94: Malibu Lagoon Tsunami Risk Map 95: Corral Canyon Tsunami Risk Map 96: Escondido Beach Tsunami Risk Map 97: Zuma Beach Tsunami Risk Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Storm Surge
As a coastal community, the City of Malibu is vulnerable to high waves and storm surge. For example, in August 2014, Hurricane Marie caused extremely high surf in the region which resulted in the closure of several beaches in Los Angeles County and damage to the Malibu Pier. During this event, wave heights peaked from 10 to 15 feet. The damage to the pier took more than 2 years to completed at an estimated cost of $4.6 million which included the replacement of at least 59 pilings.33
Figure 119: Topanga State Beach
Source: Source: California Department of Parks &
Recreation
Source: California Department of Parks & Recreation
This risk of storm surge is related to the continued impact of sea-level rise and will continue to escalate as a risk in terms of life, safety, and economic impact into the future. In order to mitigate the threat of sea-level rise, the City of Malibu regulates development activities along the coast in conjunction with the regulatory authority of the State of California.
Sea-Level Rise
According to the City of Malibu General Plan, “Elevations within the City range from sea level to approximately 1,700 feet above sea level. Most of the developed areas along the coast lie below 100 feet with the exception of the Point Dume and Malibu Park areas which reach an elevation of 500 feet. The hillsides and coastal mesas such as Big Rock and Las Flores have elevations ranging from 300 to 400 feet above sea level.” As a consequence, the threat of sea level rise is a concern.
According to a 2016 report on the risk of sea-level rise prepared for the County of Los Angeles34, the City of Malibu is at risk of sea-level rise due to the close proximity of assets and infrastructure to the shoreline and the anticipated reduction of beach width (sand front) along the coast due to wave runup and inundation. Further, continued sea-level rise will leave the City of Malibu more vulnerable to future storm events. Finally, if the situation continues, the erosion and loss of beaches can have a significant economic impact to the City. 33 Tallal, The Malibu Times, Phase II of Malibu Pier Repairs to Being This Week, December 21, 2016. 34 Noble Consultants-G.E.C., Inc., Final Report Los Angeles County Public Beach Facilities Sea-Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment, 2016.
Figure 120: Malibu Pier
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As with the risk of storm surge, the City of Malibu regulates development activities along the coast in conjunction with the regulatory authority of the State of California. Other mitigation strategies in the future that may be undertaken by the State or County of Los Angeles may include beach sand replacement, sand dune maintenance, and shorefront protection strategies. These strategies were summarized in the 2016 report in the table, “Suggested Adaptive Management Strategy for Los Angeles County Public Beach Assets”34 as follows:
Estimated Impact of an Event
If major Tsunami were to occur, the consequences to local populations, employment, and housing could be significant. The table below provides the estimated impact of a disaster using a 1% loss baseline (see Community Profile section for detailed demographic and economic data).
Category Malibu Impact if a 1% Loss Occurs
Population* 10,915 109
Total City Employment 6,483 64.83
Economy**
(in thousands)
$578,443 $109
Total Owner-Occupied Units 3,395 34
Median Home Value $2,000,000+ More than $67.9M
(based on an average home value of $1,405,680 x Total Owner Occupied Units Impacted) Table 164: Estimated Population and Economic Loss of a Tsunami *Source U.S. Census Bureau 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate **2017 U.S. Economic Census (in thousands)
Based on a 1% loss projection for the City of Malibu, approximately 109 people could be displaced or significantly impacted, and approximately 34 homes could be damaged or destroyed resulting in over $67.9 million in losses based on an average home value of $2,000,0000 (see Community Profile section for population, housing, and economic data).
Table 163: Suggested Adaptive Management Strategy for Los Angeles County Public Beach Assets Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Impact of Climate Change
Tsunami and storm surge are only applicable to the City of Malibu. Climate change is expected to increase the risk of storm surge and increase the amount of damage due to erosion and future tsunami levels due to sea level rise.
Impact of Land Use and Development
A tsunami or storm surge would only impact the City of Malibu. If such an event were to occur, the result could be a loss of land available for use or development due to erosion of the coastline.
Additionally, land loss of coastal hillsides where erosion undermines sea cliffs. As a consequence, land use patterns could be expected to shift to areas further away from the shoreline. Additionally, new land use restrictions may be implemented to further mitigate against future loss.
Impact of Population Patterns
A tsunami or storm surge would only impact the City of Malibu. If such an event were to occur, a decrease in the local population in the areas impacted may occur due to the loss of available land due to sea inundation/flooding, loss of buildable land (along the sea and hillsides), and a general reluctance of local populations to live close to the shoreline.
Risk of Future Tsunami
For the LVMCOG Region, the risk of future climate change events was estimated by the Working Group using the following weighted formula:
Risk = (0.45 x Probability) + (0.30 x Magnitude/Severity) + (0.15 x Warning Time) + (0.10 x Duration) Probability Magnitude / Severity Warning Time Duration
Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Unlikely 1 Negligible 1 Less than 6 hrs 4 Less than 6 hrs 1 Possibly 2 Limited 2 6 to 12 hrs 3 Less than 24 hrs 2
Likely 3 Critical 3 12 to 24 hrs 2 Less than one wk 3
Highly Likely 4 Catastrophic 4 More than 24 hrs 1 More than one wk 4 The result was a climate change risk rating of 1.95 (see Annex C Working Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey for additional details):
Hazard Probability Magnitude Warning
Time Duration Risk
Tsunami 1.67 1.67 2.25 3.67 1.95
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TSUNAMI VULNERABILITIES
The major concern regarding the impact on communities from tsunami events is the loss of life and property. Critical infrastructure failures are also a threat and may require days or weeks to repair. Similarly, the impact to business and industry can result in immediate and long term economic loss. Furthermore, sea level rise due to climate change further increases the risk of storm surge and the potential magnitude of tsunamis.
For the LVMCOG region, Malibu is the only city vulnerable to tsunami. As shown in the Tsunami Hazard Identification section, all coastal areas of Malibu are at risk. The primary concern is loss of life and injuries. Other specific vulnerabilities are listed below in terms of:
Property Loss
Critical Infrastructure
Business and Industry
Property Loss
In Malibu, California, various populations are vulnerable to tsunamis: Permanent residents in lowlying coastal areas or near beaches face direct risk. Many residential areas line the coast, increasing susceptibility to tsunami waves. Tourists, especially during summer, may lack knowledge of evacuation routes, heightening vulnerability. The elderly, disabled, and those with mobility issues may struggle to evacuate quickly, requiring special attention for safety.
Critical Infrastructure
Homes in low-lying coastal areas, on beaches, or near shoreline cliffs face significant risk of tsunami damage or destruction, including single-family residences, beachfront estates, and multistory condominiums. Malibu's hotels and resorts along the coastline are also vulnerable, with potential impacts on employees and tourism. Coastal businesses like restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues face damage and economic losses from tsunami waves, as do critical infrastructure facilities such as power plants, hospitals, and transportation hubs, affecting public safety, health, and the economy. Public amenities like parks, marinas, and coastal infrastructure are also at risk of erosion and disruption.
Business and Industry
Tsunami events pose considerable threats to businesses, especially those situated along coastlines near Malibu. These businesses are susceptible to property damage and face challenges in maintaining access for employees, suppliers, and customers. Disruptions in utilities resulting from tsunami flooding can further hinder business operations. Additionally, local or regional tsunami flooding can lead to decreased worker productivity, traffic disruptions, and longer commute times.
In Malibu, numerous businesses reliant on tourism and ocean-related activities, such as hotels, attractions, restaurants, and beach commerce, confront heightened vulnerability to tsunamis, intensifying the economic repercussions.
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VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
In Agoura Hills, while the risk of direct impact from a tsunami is low due to its inland location, secondary effects such as disrupted transportation routes can affect the elderly and those speaking languages other than English. The elderly may face difficulties in accessing essential services and medical care if transportation routes are compromised. Non-English speakers may struggle to understand and access information about indirect impacts and emergency measures.
Calabasas residents, including those on fixed incomes, transitory workers, homeless individuals, and elderly or disabled residents, might experience indirect impacts from a tsunami, such as disrupted access to services. Fixed-income residents may find it difficult to adjust to the economic repercussions and increased demand for goods and services following a tsunami. Transitory workers and the homeless may face additional hardships due to displacement and lack of access to essential services. Elderly and disabled residents may have difficulty accessing medical care and support services if transportation and infrastructure are affected.
In Hidden Hills, the older population, households with disabilities, and those with limited transportation capabilities are vulnerable to the indirect effects of a tsunami. Older adults and those with disabilities may struggle with disrupted access to medical care and essential supplies if transportation routes are affected. Limited transportation capabilities can further exacerbate these challenges, leaving them isolated and in need of assistance.
In Malibu, the transitory workers, elderly population, lower-income residents, and homeless individuals are particularly vulnerable to tsunamis. Transitory workers and the homeless often lack stable housing, increasing their risk of exposure to tsunami waves and debris. Elderly individuals may struggle with mobility issues that hinder quick evacuation to higher ground. Lower-income residents may lack the financial means to relocate or access temporary shelter, significantly increasing their risk of harm during a tsunami.
In Westlake Village, the elderly, disabled, homeless individuals, and residents speaking a language other than English are vulnerable to the indirect impacts of a tsunami. The elderly and disabled may face increased difficulty in accessing medical care and essential services if transportation are disrupted. Homeless individuals are particularly at risk due to their lack of stable shelter and resources. Non-English speakers may have difficulty understanding information about emergency measures, increasing their vulnerability.
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TSUNAMI HAZARD IDENTIFICATION MITIGATION STRATEGIES
National Tsunami Information Guide
The National Tsunami Information Guide serves as a comprehensive resource providing guidance and information on tsunamis. It offers details on tsunami warning systems, evacuation procedures, and safety measures for individuals, communities, and businesses. The guide outlines steps for preparedness, response, and recovery in the event of a tsunami, aiming to minimize loss of life and property damage. It also educates the public about tsunami risk factors, warning signs, and how to recognize and respond to a tsunami threat effectively. Additionally, the guide may include information on government agencies responsible for tsunami monitoring and coordination, as well as resources for further assistance and support. Overall, the National Tsunami Information Guide plays a crucial role in promoting awareness, readiness, and resilience against tsunami hazards at the national level.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
While the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) primarily focuses on flood risk management, its principles and mechanisms can also be relevant in the context of tsunamis. Tsunamis, unlike typical river or rainfall-induced floods, are large ocean waves typically caused by underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. Therefore, the NFIP's approach to floodplain management and insurance coverage needs to be adapted to address the specific challenges posed by tsunamis.
Although NFIP policies explicitly exclude coverage for tsunamis, many of the program's principles and practices can still be applied to tsunami risk management. For example, FEMA's floodplain mapping and risk assessment methodologies can be utilized to identify coastal areas prone to tsunamis and inform land-use planning and development regulations aimed at reducing exposure and vulnerability.
Additionally, the NFIP's emphasis on building codes, land-use zoning, and elevation standards can be instrumental in mitigating the impact of tsunamis by promoting resilient construction practices, establishing setback requirements for coastal development, and encouraging the relocation of critical infrastructure and vulnerable populations away from high-risk areas.
While NFIP policies do not cover tsunami-related damage, they can complement other insurance options specifically designed to address tsunami risk, such as earthquake and tsunami insurance policies offered by private insurers in certain coastal regions. By integrating tsunami risk considerations into broader floodplain management efforts and leveraging the expertise and resources of NFIP, coastal communities can enhance their overall resilience to tsunamis and other coastal hazards, ultimately reducing the potential for loss of life and property damage in the event of a tsunami.
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LVMCOG Mitigation Activities
Malibu
Tsunami Planning
To plan for and mitigate the impact of a tsunami to the general public, the City of Malibu has developed a tsunami information brochure and has designated several Tsunami Safe Areas and evacuation routes.
Tsunami Safe Areas
Malibu Bluffs Park
Hughes Research Labs parking lot
Malibu Creek State Park
Salvation Army Camps (behind Tapia Park)
Evacuation Routes
Topanga Canyon Blvd.
Malibu Canyon Road
Kanan Road
Encinal Canyon Road
Mulholland Highway
Table 165: City of Malibu Tsunami Safe Areas and Evacuation Routes Tsunami Preparedness
Additionally, the City of Malibu
provides Tsunami Preparedness
information, including updated
2021 Tsunami Hazard Maps,
Tsunami Preparedness Week
2021, as well as other resources
for residents.
The updated 2021 Tsunami
Hazard Maps, which provide
detailed visual representations
of areas within Malibu that may
be at risk of tsunami inundation,
help residents better understand
their individual exposure to
tsunami hazards.
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In 2021, the City of Malibu hosted a
Tsunami Preparedness Week from
March 22 to 26. In addition, on April
13, 2021 a presentation Los Angeles
County was provided with update
Tsunami Hazard Maps which included
a 1,000 year event.
Finally, the City of Malibu web site
provides the community with links to
mitigation information including The
Tsunami Zone California website or
download the National Tsunami Hazard
Mitigation Program (NTHMP) Tsunami
Information Guide offered by the
National Weather Service.
Figure 121: National Weather Service Tsunami Alert Categories Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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SECTION 14. SEVERE WINTER STORM
THE NATURE OF SEVERE WINTER STORM THREAT
The Las Virgenes-Malibu area is susceptible to the impacts of severe winter storms, characterized by heavy rainfall and strong winds. These storms disrupt daily life, pose threats to property, and can cause significant damage to infrastructure and homes. The region's topography, coupled with urban development and the aftermath of wildfires, can heighten the risks of erosion and mudslides.
HISTORICAL RECORD OF SEVERE WINTER STORMS
History of Severe Winter Storms in Southern California
Historically, the region has experienced extended periods (on the order of years) of either wet or dry weather. Additionally, in any given year the amount of precipitation can vary widely. The NOAA has recorded storm data in Southern California since 2019.
Date(s) Weather Adverse Impacts
3/29/2023 to
3/30/2023
Winter storm conditions developed across the
eastern range of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Above 5000 feet, snowfall totals of 6 to 12
inches were reported. Additionally, southerly
winds, gusting up to 67 MPH, were reported.
Rainfall totals across the area ranged between 1
and 3 inches which produced numerous reports
of nuisance urban flooding. In the mountains of
Los Angeles County, snowfall totals up to 12
inches, combined with wind gusting to 67 MPH
3/21/2023 Winter storm conditions developed across the
western range of the San Gabriel Mountains.
The storm brought winter storm conditions the
local mountains with snowfall totals of 2 to 4
feet and southerly winds gusting in excess of
80 MPH.
Vvery strong southerly winds.
Snowfall totals of 2 to 4 feet were reported
above 6000 feet elevation with 10 to 20 inches
between 5000 and 6000 feet. Additionally, there
were some very strong southerly winds.
3/1/2023 Winter storm conditions developed across the
mountains of Los Angeles County. Rainfall
totals ranged from 0.50 to 1.50 inches across
coastal and valley areas with 1 to 3 inches
across the mountains. Cold air, associated with
the storm, dropped snow levels to around 3000
feet. Strong winds were also reported.
significant snowfall accumulations in the local
mountains were reported. Thunderstorms
developed throughout the area, causing wind
damage.
1/4/2023 to
1/6/2023
A winter storm brought strong winds,
moderate to heavy rainfall and high elevation
snowfall to the area. Overall, rainfall totals
ranged from 2 to 4 inches across coastal and
valley areas with 4 to 8 inches across the
foothills and mountains.
Rainfall intensities were moderate, resulting in
widespread nuisance urban flooding. Snow
levels remained very high, above 6000 feet,
with the resort level receiving 8-16 inches of
snowfall. Along with the rain and snow, gusty
southerly winds were reported with gusts up to
87 MPH.
12/26/2019 A powerful winter storm brought significant
rain, snow, and wind to the area. Rainfall totals
ranged from 1 to 2 inches across coastal and
valleys areas with 2 to 4 inches in the foothills
and mountains.
Numerous road closures due to winter storm
conditions were reported, including Interstate 5
through the Grapevine as well as Highways 14
and 138. Additionally, thunderstorms generated
a waterspout over the coastal waters as well as a
very weak tornado over Ventura Harbor
11/28/2019 to
11/29/2019
A cold and powerful winter storm brought
significant winter storm conditions to the
Antelope Valley as well as the mountains of
Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles
counties. Snow levels bottomed out to between
2000 and 3000 feet.
winter storm conditions resulted in significant
travel issues, including closure of parts of
interstate 5, Highway 14 and Highway 138.
Table 166: Significant Winter Storm Events in Southern California 2019 - 2023 Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Disasters Declarations and Emergency Proclamations
FEMA disaster declarations allow state, tribal, and local governments to access federal aid for disaster response and recovery when overwhelmed. Similarly, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) issues proclamations to mobilize state resources and streamline procedures.
FEMA Disasters Declarations
Declaration Date: 1/9/23 || California Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, and Mudslides || DD# em-3591-CA
Intense winter storm conditions caused flooding, debris flows and mudslides across most of California, though most damage was sustained outside the LVMCOG region.
Declaration Date: 3/10/23 || California Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, Landslides, and Mudslides || DD# EM-3592-CA
Landslides and mudslides occurred during a severe winter storm, despite heavy damage reported across the state coast, the LVMCOG region was not as heavily affected.
Cal OES Open State of Emergency Proclamations
Proclamation Date: 1/29/21 || Winter storms
The winter storm proclamation was a hazard to Los Angeles as well as the LVMCOG region.
Proclamation Date: 1/4/23
Severe winter storms struck California causing high winds, and expected flooding, and widespread power outages. This declaration was a hazard to the entire state of California.
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CAUSES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF SEVERE WINTER STORMS
Severe winter storms can arise from a combination of various atmospheric conditions. Winter storms often occur when a cold air mass collides with a warm air mass. The cold air mass, typically originating from polar regions, is denser and forces the warm air to rise rapidly, leading to the formation of storm clouds. Winter storms require a moisture source. In many cases, this moisture is provided by bodies of water, such as the Great Lakes in the United States. Cyclogenesis refers to the process of cyclone formation, which can occur along frontal boundaries where temperature gradients are steep. As the low-pressure system intensifies, it can bring together the necessary ingredients for a severe winter storm, including strong winds and heavy precipitation.
Annual Rainfall
Rainfall in the LVMCOG region averages nearly 18 inches per year. However, the term “average rainfall” is misleading because over the recorded history of rainfall in the region, rainfall amounts have ranged from no rain at all in some years to well over normal averages in very wet years.
Furthermore, actual rainfall in Southern California tends to fall in large amounts during sporadic and often heavy storms rather than in consistent amounts throughout the year (See Community Profile Section for additional details). For example, the 2022 and 2023 years experienced greater than average rainfall including Tropical Storm Hilary in August 2023 which was the first severe storm of this type to reach Southern California since the 1930’s.
Strong Winds and Gusts:
Severe winter storms in the LVMCOG region are distinguished by powerful winds and gusts.
These storms can bring sustained high winds and gusts that pose risks to infrastructure, including buildings, trees, and power lines. The strong winds can lead to property damage, downed trees, and power outages, disrupting daily life.
STAKEHOLDER INPUT AND PARTICIPATION
To identify the threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences of a severe winter storm on the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region, each member of the Planning Group which included representatives from the cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village provided their input during planning meetings (see Annex B: Meeting Agendas and Attendees) and followup discussions. Specific topics of discussion included if any changes to the hazard priorities have changed since the previous HMP, how changes in the community have impacted the risk of each hazard, and what new mitigation actions can be taken. In addition, each member of the Planning Group as well as members of the public provided the input via online surveys (see Annex C:
Community Disaster Preparedness and Risk Survey, Annex D: Planning Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey, and Annex E: Planning and Public Involvement).
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SEVERE WINTER STORM HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Severe winter storms occur when a combination of atmospheric conditions, including cold temperatures, moisture, and wind, result in heavy precipitation and high winds. In the LVMCOG region, the proximity to colder air masses from the north and moisture from the Pacific Ocean increases the likelihood of severe winter weather events. Additionally, variations in topography and elevation contribute to localized differences in rainfall and wind patterns. With continued growth, urban development, and expansion of impermeable surfaces, such as roads and buildings, the region's susceptibility to severe winter storms is heightened. These factors can lead to challenges in managing floods, maintaining roadways, and ensuring public safety during extreme winter weather conditions.
Tropical Storms and El Nino Conditions
Another source of heavy rainfall is from summer tropical storms. These tropical storms usually coincide with El Nino years. El Nino is a disruption of the ocean-atmosphere system in the tropical Pacific Ocean having important consequences for weather in California. Among these consequences is increased rainfall across the southern tier of the U.S. and Peru.
During El Nino periods, trade winds begin to relax in the central and western Pacific Ocean leading to a depression of the thermocline in the eastern Pacific Ocean and an elevation of the thermocline in the west. The result is a rise in sea surface temperature and heavier than normal rainfall in Southern California. In the past, El Nino conditions have caused damage to the Las VirgenesMalibu area, particularly in the City of Malibu.
Storm Surge
As a coastal community, the City of Malibu is vulnerable to high waves and storm surge. For example, in August 2023 the entire region was threatened by Tropical Storm Hilary a Category 4 event which resulted in heavy rains and a potential for storm surge.
In December 2021, an atmospheric river brought heavy rain to Southern California and produced a high threat of storm surge in Malibu. Also in August 2014, Hurricane Marie caused extremely high surf in the region which resulted in the closure of several beaches in Los Angeles County and damage to the Malibu Pier. During this event, wave heights peaked from 10 to 15 feet. The damage to the pier took more than 2 years to completed at an estimated cost of $4.6 million which included the replacement of at least 59 pilings.35
Figure 122: Topanga State Beach
Source: Source: California Department of Parks &
Recreation
Figure 123: Malibu Pier
Source: California Department of Parks & Recreation
35 Tallal, The Malibu Times, Phase II of Malibu Pier Repairs to Being This Week, December 21, 2016.
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This risk of storm surge is related to the continued impact of sea-level rise (see Climate Change section) and will continue to escalate as a risk in terms of life, safety, and economic impact into the future. In order to mitigate the threat of sea-level rise, the City of Malibu regulates development activities along the coast in conjunction with the regulatory authority of the State of California.
Estimated Impact of an Event
If a major Storm were to occur, the consequences to local populations, employment, and housing could be significant. The table below provides the estimated impact of a disaster using a 1% loss baseline (see Community Profile section for detailed demographic and economic data).
Category Agoura
Hills Calabasas Hidden Hills Malibu Westlake Village
Impact if a
1% Loss
Occurs
Population* 20,362 23,410 2,182 10,915 8,081 650
Total City
Employment
11,100 11,800 4.5 6,483 3,700 330
Economy**
(in thousands)
$621,000 $1,011,348 N/A $578,443 $576,306 $27,871
Total OwnerOccupied Units 5,861 6,010 603 3,395 2,492 184 Median Home
Value $857,700 $1,141,600 $2,000,000+ $2,000,000+ $1,029,100 More than
$258M
(based on an average
home value of
$1,405,680 x Total
Owner Occupied Units
Impacted)
Table 167: Estimated Population and Economic Loss of Storms *Source U.S. Census Bureau 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate **2017 U.S. Economic Census (in thousands)
Based on a 1% loss projection, approximately 650 people could be displaced or significantly impacted, and approximately 184 homes could be damaged or destroyed resulting in over $258 million in losses based on an average home value of $1,405,680 and damage to 184 owner occupied units (see Community Profile section for population, housing, and economic data).
Las Virgenes-Malibu Severe Winter Storm Probability
According to the FEMA National Risk Index, the Los Angeles region records the chance of winter weather as 2.6 events per year.
Impact of Climate Change
Each city within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) is subject to the impact of severe winter storms. Climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of storms so each city may expect to experience future events resulting in localized damage due to high winds, flooding, landslides debris flows, and mudflows.
Additionally, the City of Malibu is susceptible to coastal flooding due to high surf and elevated sea levels.
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Impact of Land Use and Development
City Impact of Land Use and Development
Agoura Hills During severe weather such as winter storms, developed areas located on hillsides may be impacted by landslides and areas in lower elevations may be at greater risk of flooding, mudslides, and debris flows which may reduce future development densities and/or cause changes to local land use plans.
Calabasas Severe winter storms put residential areas are located in the Calabasas hillsides at greater risk of landslides and low lying areas are subject to flooding, debris flows, and mudslides. Consequently, future development plans may increase the number of restrictions on new development or redevelopment projects, particularly residential properties in hillside areas and in low lying regions below hillside slopes.
Hidden Hills Severe winter storms are not expected to result in changes in residential land use patterns in Hidden Hills. Nevertheless, during severe winter storms the risk of local flooding, landslides, debris flows, and mudflows may increase which could result in the loss of structures and buildable land – changing land use patterns.
Malibu Severe winter storms may cause coastal flooding due to sea level rise as well as inland flooding in low lying areas and those along riverine zones. Further, debris flows and mudflows could increase while cliffside developments and mountain residential areas are susceptible to landslides. Consequently, structures in coastal areas, riverine zones, cliff sides, and those located along isolated roads may face future restrictions or may be converted to public areas or wildland if reconstruction is not feasible. The result would be a change in land use patterns in Malibu.
Westlake Village Severe winter storms causing flooding, debris flows and mudflows in riverine areas within Westlake Village and below the reservoir may occur. Additionally, hillside areas may be undermined causing landslides. The result could cause changes in land use patterns due to additional development constraints especially those areas located in the hillsides and low lying streams in the city.
Impact of Population Patterns
City Impact of Population Patterns
Agoura Hills Ongoing extreme weather caused by severe winter storms is not expected to cause significant changes to the population of Agoura Hills as the demand for housing in the area continues to remain high. However, construction in flood, landslide, debris flow, and mudflow prone areas could limit population densities in these areas.
Calabasas It is not anticipated that severe winter storms will significantly impact population patterns in the City of Calabasas due to the area’s desirable location and local demand for housing. However, as with other cities in the area, construction in flood, landslide, debris flow, and mudflow prone areas could limit population densities in these areas.
Hidden Hills Population patterns are expected to remain unchanged due to severe winter storms unless areas of the city are deemed to be unusable due to a major flooding, landslide, debris flow, or mudflow.
Malibu Severe winter storms could lead to flooding, landslides, debris flows, and mudflows in the area which may cause a shift in local population densities and could even result in an increase in the amount of wildland areas where future development is prohibited leading to a slight reduction in the local population.
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City Impact of Population Patterns
Westlake Village Severe winter storms can cause flooding, landslides, debris flows, or mudflows in the City of Westlake Village especially in areas along hillsides and low lying riverine zones. Consequently, if a severe event occurs, future population densities may shift due to additional limits to construction/reconstruction in hazard prone areas.
Risk of Future Severe Winter Storm
For the LVMCOG Region, the risk of future storm events was estimated by the Working Group using the following weighted formula:
Risk = (0.45 x Probability) + (0.30 x Magnitude/Severity) + (0.15 x Warning Time) + (0.10 x Duration) Probability Magnitude / Severity Warning Time Duration
Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Unlikely 1 Negligible 1 Less than 6 hrs 4 Less than 6 hrs 1 Possibly 2 Limited 2 6 to 12 hrs 3 Less than 24 hrs 2
Likely 3 Critical 3 12 to 24 hrs 2 Less than one wk 3
Highly Likely 4 Catastrophic 4 More than 24 hrs 1 More than one wk 4 The result was a severe winter storm risk rating of 4.57 (see Annex C Working Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey for additional details):
Hazard Probability Magnitude Warning
Time Duration Risk
Severe Winter
Storm (including
Flood)
4.33 6 3 3.67 4.57
SEVERE WINTER STORM VULNERABILITIES
The major concern regarding the impact on communities from severe winter storm events is the loss of life and property. Critical infrastructure failures are also a threat and may require days or weeks to repair. Similarly, the impact to business and industry can result in immediate and long term economic loss.
For the LVMCOG region, specific parts of each city vulnerable to the impact of severe winter storms including flooding and severe winds consist of areas below the local hillsides and mountain regions as well as riverine pathways and in northern and southern Agoura Hills, southern and western areas of Calabasas, southern and western Hidden Hills, the Santa Monica Mountain areas of Malibu and Malibu Lagoon, and southern Westlake Village especially downstream of the reservoir. Although the primary concern is loss of life and injuries, other specific vulnerabilities are listed below in terms of:
Property Loss
Critical Infrastructure
Business and Industry
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Property Loss
Severe winter storms in the LVMCOG region typically involve heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding. These storms can still cause significant damage to infrastructure and property, including flooding of roads, buildings, and utilities. High winds during winter storms can also lead to downed trees and power lines, causing power outages and property damage. Residential, commercial, and public properties are vulnerable to these impacts, particularly in low-lying areas and areas prone to flooding.
Critical Infrastructure
During severe winter storms, critical infrastructure faces various threats, particularly when heavy rainfall and strong winds combine to create hazardous conditions. Infrastructure such as water and sewer systems, electrical supplies, pipelines, transportation networks, emergency facilities, and communications networks are vulnerable to damage. Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding of roads, bridges, and tunnels, causing disruptions to transportation networks and posing risks to public safety. Additionally, strong winds during severe winter storms can result in downed trees and power lines, further impacting electrical supplies and transportation routes. Contamination of underground wells and reservoirs may also occur, affecting local water supplies. In coastal areas like Malibu, the Pacific Coast Highway, a major transportation route, is particularly susceptible to erosion and damage from coastal flooding and storm surges.
Map 98: Malibu Coastline Example
Business and Industry
Severe winter storms can have significant impacts on businesses, disrupting operations and causing damage to property and infrastructure. Heavy rainfall and strong winds can lead to flooding of commercial properties, resulting in property damage and interruptions to business activities.
Access to businesses may also be hindered by flooded roads and transportation disruptions, affecting employees, suppliers, and customers. Additionally, loss of utilities such as electricity and water due to flooding can prevent businesses from functioning, further exacerbating the economic impact of severe winter storms. In coastal areas like Malibu, businesses located along the coastline are particularly vulnerable to flooding from storm surges and coastal erosion during severe weather events. Moreover, businesses in Malibu reliant on tourism and ocean-related activities, such as hotels, attractions, restaurants, and recreational facilities, may experience significant losses in revenue during severe winter storms.
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Winter Storm Risk in the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region
Overall the risk of winter weather in the Las Virgenes-Malibu region is “relatively low” per the National Risk Index. Regardless, severe winter storm cannot be completely disregarded especially due to the regions topography and winds that accompany these storms.
Map 99: Winter Weather National Risk Index
VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
In Agoura Hills, the elderly and those speaking languages other than English are particularly vulnerable during severe winter storms. The elderly may face increased risk of hypothermia and injury from slips and falls, and may have difficulty accessing necessary supplies and medical care.
Non-English speakers may struggle with receiving timely warnings and understanding safety measures, increasing their risk of harm.
Calabasas residents, including those on fixed incomes, transitory workers, homeless individuals, and elderly or disabled residents, face heightened risks during severe winter storms. Fixed-income residents may lack the resources to invest in proper heating and insulation. Transitory workers and homeless individuals may not have access to reliable shelter, increasing their vulnerability to cold temperatures and exposure. Elderly and disabled residents may experience significant difficulty in securing their homes and protecting themselves from cold weather and related hazards.
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In Hidden Hills, the older population, households with disabilities, and those with limited transportation capabilities are at substantial risk from severe winter storms. Older adults and those with disabilities may find it challenging to secure their homes and protect themselves from cold weather. Limited transportation can hinder their ability to reach safer, warmer areas, in the rare event that a prolonged severe winter storm was to occur. Additionally, those with limited transportation may lack the ability to gather the necessary resources during a storm.
Malibu's transitory workers, elderly population, lower-income residents, and homeless individuals are particularly vulnerable during severe winter storms. Transitory workers and the homeless often lack stable housing, making it difficult to find safe, warm shelter. Elderly individuals may struggle with mobility issues that hinder securing their homes and protecting themselves from cold weather, while lower-income residents may lack the financial means to invest in proper heating and insulation.
In Westlake Village, the elderly, disabled, homeless individuals, and residents speaking a language other than English face significant risks during severe winter storms. The elderly and disabled may find it difficult to secure their homes and protect themselves from cold weather due to mobility issues and health concerns. Homeless individuals are highly vulnerable due to lack of shelter and resources. Non-English speakers may miss critical warnings and safety instructions, increasing their risk during severe winter storms.
SEVERE WINTER STORM HAZARD IDENTIFICATION MITIGATION STRATEGIES LVMCOG Mitigation Activities
Due to the prevalence of flooding as a consequence of severe storms, this section retains similar mitigation actions as those addressed in the Flood hazard section. These measures include enforcing building codes, implementing home hardening strategies, and other resilience-building initiatives.
Flooding is often a regional problem that crosses multiple jurisdictional boundaries. Flood risks are greatest and flood hazards most severe during the winter “wet season” when water bodies may become full and soils saturated. Although flooding is primarily a natural process and is therefore difficult to prevent, urbanization, land use, and development decisions have a significant effect on the frequency and severity of floods. Flood mitigation activities include enforcement of building codes, zoning codes, and various planning strategies to address development in areas of known hazards and applying the appropriate safeguards. Furthermore, all cities within the Las Virgenes Malibu Council of Governments have assessed their flood hazards and participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works (LACDPW) is responsible for regional flood control within the County. Flood mitigation measures include an extensive storm drain and flood control system.
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Agoura Hills
To address the consequences of severe winter
storms – which includes a heightened risk of
flooding, the City of Agoura Hills provides
residents with flood facts via its web site. This
includes general information and response
guidance.
Further, the Los Angeles County Department of
Public Works (LACDPW) presently owns and
maintains three major flood control facilities in
Agoura Hills. These facilities are the Lindero
Canyon Channel, the Chesebro Canyon
Channel, and parts of Medea Creek. Two major
drainage channels not maintained by the
LACDPW are the Palo Comado Canyon and
Liberty Canyon. With the exception of the Palo
Comado Canyon, these drainages are
unchannelized or are maintained as semi-natural
and are located in open space corridors.
The Lindero Canyon Channel provides flood
protection for the west drainage flow from
Lindero Canyon. This canyon extends into Ventura Canyon, well beyond the City of Agoura Hills northerly boundary.
The Chesebro Canyon Channel provides controlled drainage for the east drainage area of the City. Chesebro Canyon Channel intercepts the flows from Chesebro Canyon, and Palo Comado Canyon. Both canyons extend into Ventura Canyon, beyond the City of Agoura Hills northern boundary line.
Medea Creek is partially improved between the Ventura Freeway and north to the Ventura County line. Medea Creek provides flood control protection for the central drainage area of the City. Medea Creek intercepts flow from Medea Creek Canyon, extending into Ventura County.
FEMA has identified several Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) within Agoura Hills. Within these zones, the City of Agoura Hills enforces floodplain management standards as issued by FEMA. These standards are designed to prevent new development from increasing the flood threat and protect new and existing buildings from anticipated flood events.
Per FEMA, a SFHA is an area having special flood, mudflow or flood-related erosion hazards and shown on a Flood Hazard Boundary Map (FHBM) or a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) Zone A, AO, A1-A30, AE, A99, AH, AR, AR/A, AR/AE, AR/AH, AR/AO, AR/A1-A30, V1-V30, VE or V. The SFHA is the area where the National Flood Insurance Program's (NFIP's) floodplain management regulations must be enforced and the area where the mandatory purchase of flood insurance applies. For the purpose of determining Community Rating System (CRS) premium discounts, all AR and A99 zones are treated as non-SFHAs.
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Map 100: City of Agoura Hills Flood Areas
Source: City of Agoura Hills, General Plan 2035 EIR
Development under the City’s General Plan could place structures within the SFHA, but not in a manner that would substantially impede or redirect flows. Adherence to development policies as well as state and federal regulations reduces the flood threat. Furthermore, as part of development project reviews, the City requires that a drainage plan and study be submitted, as appropriate. The following policies have been implemented in Agoura Hills. These policies guide the City in its continued compliance with NFIP guidelines and in reducing present and future flood hazards.
Policy Description
S-1.1 Coordination of Drainage Improvements. Locate and improve deficiencies in the storm drain system to prevent local flooding problems in the City.
S-1.2 New Development. Require new development to upgrade storm drains to handle the increased runoff generated from the development sites.
S-1.3 Facility Use or Storage of Hazardous Materials. Require that all facilities storing, using, or otherwise involved with substantial quantities of on-site hazardous materials within flood zones comply with applicable standards of elevation, anchoring, and flood proofing, and that hazardous materials be stored in watertight containers.
S-1.4 SEMS Plan. Ensure that the City's Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) Plan is evaluated annually and revised as required, that the current mitigation strategies addressing flood hazards are implemented, and that effective public outreach and education are included.
S-1.5 Preservation of the Flood Plains. Preservation of the flood plains as open space shall be considered, as feasible, as an alternative to channelization.
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Policy Description
S-1.6 Floodplain Requirements. Regulate development within floodplains in accordance with the County, state, and federal requirements, and maintain the City's eligibility under the National Flood Insurance Program.
S-1.7 Flood Mitigation Design. Require that new development incorporates sufficient measures to mitigate flood hazards, including the design of on-site drainage systems linking with citywide storm drainage, grading of the site so that runoff does not impact adjacent properties or structures on the site, and elevation of any structures above any flooding elevation.
The map below provides a view of the Flood Insurance Rate Map area for the City of Agoura Hills.
Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are located in Annex F.
Since severe winter storms generally involve flooding and high winds the City of Agoura Hill’s flood and severe wind policies and goals support mitigation by reducing the threat of flooding as well as falling trees and large branches from causing injuries, damaging homes and vehicles, blocking roadways, and downing electrical lines causing power outages (see Flood and Severe Wind sections for additional details). Additionally, the city continually manages the risk of winter storm caused flooding and wind damage by enforcing building and construction standards as well as via its General Plan and Development Plan. Consequently, all residents benefit including vulnerable populations such as low income, elderly, and handicapped individuals since there is a reduction of the risk of severe winter storms causing transportation disruptions, injuries, damaging homes, vehicles, and other property.
Map 101: City of Agoura Hills Flood Insurance Rate Map
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Calabasas
Calabasas facilitates efforts with local, state, and federal agencies, including special districts to address flooding issues. Development is generally discouraged in flood-prone areas and individual developers in Calabasas are required to mitigate their potential contributions to downstream flooding problems. Any structures placed within the SFHA, will not be built in a manner that would substantially impede or redirect flows. Adherence to development policies as well as state and federal regulations reduces impacts from flooding in Calabasas to less than significant levels.
The map below depicts FEMA designated flood zones in Calabasas. Small portions of western Calabasas (purple shaded areas) is within the 100-year floodplain; however, the majority of the City is not located within any designated Special Flood Hazard Areas.
Map 102: Drainages and Floodways in Calabasas
The following policies are outlined in the 2030 City of Calabasas General Plan Safety Element.
These policies guide the City in its continued compliance with NFIP guidelines and in reducing present and future flood hazards.
Policy Description
VII-11 Incorporate adequate mitigation measures into proposed development projects to achieve an acceptable level of risk from potential flooding hazards. Mitigation measures should also address projected flooding impacts from climate change.
VII-12 Strongly discourage development within flood hazard areas and encourage retention of natural drainage as the City’s preferred management strategy, and as a higher priority than attempting to implement engineering solutions.
VII-13 Ensure that new flood control and drainage facilities as well as improvements to existing facilities are consistent with the General Plan’s environmental protection standards.
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Policy Description
VII-14 For discretionary development projects, limit new impervious surfaces to those that will not individually or cumulatively increase harmful runoff into natural stream channels downstream.
VII-15 Setbacks from stream beds should be sufficient to avoid possible adverse effects associated with future stream bank erosion.
VII-16 Whenever feasible, locate essential public facilities, including health care facilities, emergency shelters, fire stations, emergency command centers, and emergency communications facilities, outside flood hazard zones.
The map below provides a view of the Flood Insurance Rate Map area for the City of Calabasas.
Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are located in Annex F.
Severe winter storms generally involve flooding and high winds. Consequently the City of Calabasas’s policies and goals support mitigation by reducing the threat of falling trees and large branches from causing injuries, damaging homes and vehicles, blocking roadways, and downing electrical lines causing power outages (see Severe Wind section for additional details). Further, the city proactively manages the risk of winter storm caused flooding by enforcing building standards and via its development plan. These activities benefit residents as a whole as well as vulnerable populations since they reduce the risk of severe winter storms causing injuries, damaging homes, vehicles, or other property, especially for families that struggle to finance repairs.
Map 103: City of Calabasas Flood Insurance Rate Map ID
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Hidden Hills
There are no year-round streams or ponds within the city. Surface water runoff only occurs during and after periods of intense rainfall. The City’s topography and soil conditions subject Hidden Hills to flood hazards from storm drain overflow, erosion, mudflows, and debris deposits. There are no Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) in the city of Hidden Hills. For this reason, there are no FEMA mandated floodplain management requirements to which Hidden Hills must adhere in order to participate in the NFIP.
Hidden Hills has implemented building code 3319.1 as a preventative measure for loss of life and property due to a flood event. Key Provisions of section 3319.1 include:
Category Description
Building Limitations Buildings are not permitted in an area determined by the City Engineer to be subject to flood hazard by reason of inundation, overflow or erosion, or where the placement of a building or other structures on the site is such that water or mud flows will be a hazard to buildings on adjacent property. The building official, in application of this subsection shall enforce, as a minimum, the current Federal Flood Plain Management Regulations defined in Title 44, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 60.3.
Site Restrictions A person shall not perform work for which a building or grading permit is required within the boundaries of an established floodway, as determined by the City Engineer, if such work increases the flood hazard to adjacent properties by either increasing the capital flood water surface elevation, deflecting flows or increasing bank erosion. Such work may be performed within an established floodway and a building or grading permit therefore may be issued, where provisions are made to the satisfaction of the City Engineer to avoid such as increase in the flood hazard.
Los Angeles County
Flood Control District
The Los Angeles County Flood Control District shall act as a consultant to the City Engineer in permit matters relating to flood control and flood hazard identification, avoidance and mitigation in all areas defined on maps furnished to the Engineer.
These standards are designed to prevent new development and site modifications from increasing the threat of flood and to protect new and existing buildings from future flood events including the impact of severe winter storms which generally involve flooding and high winds. By enacting these requirements, Hidden Hills has reduced the potential for loss of life, injuries, and property damage (including critical infrastructure and utilities) by mandating minimum standards for building and construction as well as ongoing maintenance of responsible planning. These standards are particularly important for at risk populations such as elderly, disabled, young and fixed income individuals who may not be able to afford repairs as well as by a reduction of the risk of injury and property loss.
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The map below provides a view of the Flood Insurance Rate Map area for the City of Hidden Hills. Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are located in Annex F Map 104: City of Hidden Hills Flood Insurance Rate Map ID Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Malibu
The City of Malibu is the only coastal community within the Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments. The City extends 21 miles along the Pacific coast. In addition to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the City also contains multiple riparian zones that are subject to flood.
Development under the City’s General Plan could place structures within the SFHA, but not in a manner that would substantially impede or redirect flows. Adherence to development policies as well as state and federal regulations reduces impacts from flooding to less than significant levels.
FEMA has identified areas within Malibu as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA). The map below provides a view of the Flood Insurance Rate Map zones for the City of Malibu. Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are located in the Annex F.
All development, redevelopment, remodels and repairs in a mapped FEMA Flood Zone must meet FEMA and City of Malibu Floodplain Ordinance. All development projects submitted to the Planning Department will be reviewed by the Public Works Department to verify that the project will meet the FEMA Regulations and the City's Floodplain Ordinance. Some projects may be required to elevate the structure above the flood base flood elevation and execute a FEMA Elevation Certificate.
Map 105: City of Malibu Flood Insurance Rate Map ID and Zones Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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The following policies are outlined in the City of Malibu General Plan. These policies guide the City in its continued compliance with NFIP guidelines and in reducing present and future flood hazards.
General Plan Section Description
Objective 1.2 Risks to residents and businesses from development in hazardous areas are minimized.
Policy 1.2.3 The City shall require development to provide for safety from coastal storm flooding, coastal erosion, surfacing septic effluent, and tsunami.
Policy 1.2.4 The City shall require development to be consistent with minimum Federal Management Agency (FEMA) guidelines for flood plain management.
Implementation
Measure 40
Adopt and update as appropriate maps of extreme fire danger areas, 100-year flood plains, landslide and debris flow danger, active and potentially active faults, tsunami, and any other hazard areas; and inform residents of those areas of risks and possible mitigation measures.
Implementation
Measure 43
Encourage area residents to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program.
Implementation
Measure 44
Design coastal development, except supporting structure, to be above the wave uprush level for storms within the past 100-Years, and above the 100- year flood plain.
Implementation
Measure 51
Evaluate proposed development for its impact on and from, geologic hazards, flood and mud flow hazard, and fire hazard.
In 2008 the City of Malibu received the Nation Weather Service “Storm Ready” Award. As a consequence, the City is eligible for NFIP premium reductions.
Severe winter storms typically involve flooding, extreme waves resulting in coastal inundation, and high winds along with the potential for landslides. The City of Malibu’s measures, objectives, and policies mitigate the impact of severe winter storms by reducing the potential for loss of life, injuries, and property damage (including critical infrastructure and utilities) by managing development projects and mandating minimum standards for building and construction. These measures, objectives, and policies are especially important for at risk populations such as elderly, disabled, young and financially underserved individuals who may be at greater risk of injury and property loss. Further, by qualifying for premium reductions and encouraging participation in the NFIP, all residents including the socially vulnerable are provided with an opportunity to mitigate their financial risks.
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Westlake Village
Severe winter storm flood hazard areas within the City of Westlake Village are focused on the Triunfo Canyon drainage below Westlake Lake and the banks of the lake itself. A storm drain system has been constructed in the vicinity of the canyon to moderate the effects of storm runoff.
The Los Angeles County Flood Control District has prepared a Triunfo Creek Floodway Map (LACFCD 154-ML2, Ord. 81-0021), which defines the physical limits of the flood hazard and the minimum floor elevations required for structures outside the hazard area. Any development within the canyon will be subject to the review and approval of the District.
Development on the shores of Westlake Lake has been set back several feet from the highest water level which could be expected to occur. This setback is recognized as a flood hazard area and is maintained as open space. The “spillover” design of the Westlake Lake dam ensures that flooding beyond the lake’s banks cannot occur.
Urban flooding caused by severe winter storms can sometimes be possible due to debris accumulation on storm drains and in flood control channels and basins, over-burdened pumping stations and aged drainage systems. Low-lying areas are particularly susceptible to urban flooding.
There are no specific areas identified as frequent drainage problems. However, the general areas most susceptible are those around the Westlake Lake since this is the lowest elevation level in the City. These areas include First Neighborhood, Lakeshore, and Southshore.
In addition, the City of Westlake Village web site provides flood and mudflow preparation and mitigation guidance to residents following wildfires (such as post Woolsey Fire preparation). This information includes where to obtain sandbags; precautions for areas around flood control
channels, catch basins, canyons and natural waterways;
road hazards; burn debris removal; utilities (electrical and gas shutoffs); and flood insurance.
Further, the site provides links to social media sources for alerts and information:
Los Angeles County Fire Department (on “X”) Twitter @LACoFDPIO Los Angeles County Sheriff Department (on “X”) Twitter @LASDHQ Los Angeles County Public Works (on “X”) Twitter @LACoPublicWorks City of Westlake Village Facebook @CityofWestlakeVillage The City complies with program requirements through the adoption and implementation of a flood plain management ordinance, which is coordinated by the City Engineer. This ordinance requires new development to meet certain standards to reduce the risk of future flood damage. Implementation of the program on the local level ensures that flood insurance will be available to local residents.
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The following goals, policies, and programs are outlined in the City of Westlake Village General Plan Hazards Section. The goals and policies described guide the City in its continued compliance with NFIP guidelines and in reducing present and future severe winter storm driven flood hazards.
General Plan
Section Description
Goal It shall be the goal of the City of Westlake Village to: Minimize hazards to public health, safety, and welfare which may result from geologic conditions, seismic activity, and flooding.
Objective 1 and
Policy
It shall be the objective of the City of Westlake Village to: Provide for an efficient and safe evacuation of the community in the event of a major disaster.
It shall be the policy of the City of Westlake Village to:
1-3 Maintain an effective Citywide Emergency Preparedness Plan. 1-4 Encourage community volunteers to assist police, fire, and civil defense personnel during and after a major earthquake, fire, or flood.
Objective 2 and
Policy
It shall be the objective of the city of Westlake Village to: Ensure that construction and development activities within the community do not expose residents to avoidable natural hazards.
It shall be the policy of the City of Westlake Village to:
2-4 Require the preparation of a detailed geologic and soils report to accompany each grading permit application in all hillside management areas. 2-5 Prohibit the placement of structures for human habitation within flood prone areas unless the flood hazard is eliminated by measures that do not impair the carrying capacity of the watercourse.
2-6 Enforce the provisions of the Uniform Building Code, specifically Chapters 23 and 70 as they related to earthquake-resistant design and excavation and grading.
Implementation
Programs
I-1 Continue to update the Citywide Emergency Preparedness Plan as new information becomes available.
I-2 Periodically distribute an updated pamphlet which informs individual residents of their responsibilities for emergency preparedness.
I-3 Support training programs to train volunteers to assist police, fire protection and civil defense personnel during and after a seismic, fire or flooding event.
I-4 Continue to implement the provisions of the Hillside Management ordinance and coordinate with the Los Angeles County Building and Safety Department so all applicable grading and development standards are implemented.
I-5 Coordinate with the Los Angeles County Flood Control district to ensure that potential flooding hazards associated with proposed new development are fully mitigated.
I-6 Coordinate with the Los Angeles County Building and Safety Department in the review of all development proposals, ensuring Chapters 23 and 70 of the Uniform Building Code are enforced.
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The City of Westlake Village’s goals and policies are designed to mitigate the impact of severe winter storms which includes flooding and high winds by reducing the potential for loss of life, injuries, and property damage (including critical infrastructure and utilities) by mandating minimum standards for building and construction as well as ongoing maintenance of responsible planning. These goals and policies are especially important for at risk populations such as elderly, disabled, young and financially underserved individuals who benefit by reducing the risk of injury and property loss. Additionally, the city’s mitigation efforts reduces the risk of severe winter storm flooding and winds from damaging residencies and critical infrastructure.
FEMA has identified areas within Westlake Village as Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA), including Lindero Canyon which mostly lies within Agoura Hills. Within these zones Westlake Village has chosen to adopt and enforce minimum floodplain management standards as dictated by FEMA. These standards are designed to prevent new development from increasing the flood threat and to protect new and existing buildings from anticipated flood events.
The map below provides a view of the Flood Insurance Rate Map area for the City of Westlake Village. Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are located in Annex F.
Map 106: City of Westlake Village Flood Insurance Rate Map ID and Zones Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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SECTION 15. PANDEMIC
THE NATURE OF THE PANDEMIC THREAT
Oxford Languages defines a pandemic as a “widespread occurrence of an infectious disease over a whole country or the world at a particular time.” According to Duke Global Health Institute, in any given year, there is a 2% chance of a major pandemic with effects similar to COVID-19 occurring.
Major Factors
While there have been significant advancements in health and medical technologies, according to the National Library of Medicine, major factors such as the frequency of international travel, climate change, ongoing human to animal contact, and urbanization contribute to an increased risk of pandemics happening in the future.
The Continuum of Pandemic Phases
The emergence of a pandemic can lead to various consequences, including higher healthcare demands, strained medical resources, economic disruptions, social impacts, loss of life and longterm disability. Given the continuing risk of a pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified four phases of the pandemic continuum. In the risk assessment continuum below, there are three stages: "preparedness," "response," and "recovery." During the "preparedness" stage, global cases are lowest, representing the interpandemic phase. Cases rise significantly during the "alert" and "pandemic" phases. These phases overlap with the "response" stage. Subsequently, in the "transition" phase, cases decrease, coinciding with the "recovery" stage.
A slight increase in cases during the "transition" phase suggests a potential second wave.
Eventually, cases return to the original interpandemic levels, aligning with the "preparedness" stage.
Figure 124: The Continuum of Pandemic Phases
Source: CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemic-resources/planning-preparedness/global-planning-508.html) Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Phases of a Pandemic
Pandemics are comprised of 6 phases, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The pandemic phases progress as follows: Phase 1 has no reported animal-to-human virus infections.
In Phase 2, animal viruses infect humans, raising concerns. Phase 3 involves sporadic human cases but no widespread transmission. Phase 4 sees confirmed human-to-human transmission with community outbreaks. Phase 5 includes human-to-human spread in two countries in one WHO region. Finally, Phase 6 is the pandemic phase, which signifies global community-level outbreaks.
Figure 125: Phases of a Pandemic
Source: National Library of Medicine (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK143061/)
HISTORICAL RECORD OF WORLDWIDE PANDEMIC EVENTS
Numerous pandemics have occurred throughout history. The table below provides a summary of major worldwide pandemics.
Years Pandemics Pathogens Vectors
2019-ongoing COVID-19 SARS-CoV-2 Bats, pangolins?
2015-ongoing Middle East Respiratory
Syndrome (MERS)
MERS-CoV Bats, dromedary camels
2009–2010 Swine Flu Influenza A/H1N1 Pigs
2002–2003 Severe Acute Respiratory
Syndrome SARS)
SARS-CoV Bats, palm civets
1968–1970 Hong Kong Flu Influenza A/H3N2 Avian
1961-ongoing Seventh Cholera Pandemic Vibrio cholerae Contaminated water 1957–1959 Asian Flu Influenza A/H2N2 Avian
1918–1919 Spanish Flu Influenza A/H1N1 Avian
1899–1923 Sixth Cholera Pandemic Vibrio cholerae Contaminated water 1889–1893 Russian Flu Influenza A/H3N8? Avian?
1885–ongoing Third Plague Yersinia pestis Fleas associated to wild rodents 1881–1886 Fifth Cholera Pandemic Vibrio cholerae Contaminated water 1863–1875 Fourth Cholera Pandemic Vibrio cholerae Contaminated water 1839–1856 Third Cholera Pandemic Vibrio cholerae Contaminated water 1827–1835 Second Cholera Pandemic Vibrio cholerae Contaminated water 1817–1824 First Cholera Pandemic Vibrio cholerae Contaminated water 1347–1351 Black Death Yersinia pestis Fleas associated to wild rodents 541–543 Plague of Justinian Yersinia pestis Fleas associated to wild rodents Table 168: Pandemics Throughout History
Source: Pandemics Throughout History, Piret and Bolvin, 2021 Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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CAUSES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF COVID-19
The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), “is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus” which originated in China in 2019, spreading around the globe rapidly.
The virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets, making close person-to-person contact a significant mode of transmission. It is characterized by a range of symptoms, including fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, with some cases progressing to severe respiratory distress.
Additionally, COVID-19 exhibits a wide range of severity, from asymptomatic carriers to severe cases requiring intensive medical intervention.
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in substantial disruptions worldwide due to the significant number of cases and associated fatalities. The table below provides the estimated number of cases and fatalities within the Las Virgenes-Malibu region. In comparison to the United States fatality rate (1.1%)36, the LVMCOG Region has a lower fatality rate (-0.5%), suggesting variations in healthcare infrastructure, public health measures, or demographics.
City Confirmed Cases Reported Fatalities % of Fatalities Agoura Hills 6,429 29 0.5%
Calabasas 5,956 47 0.8%
Hidden Hills 390 2 0.5%
Malibu 2,927 15 0.5%
Westlake Village 457 3 0.7%
Total 16,159 96 0.6%
Table 169: Estimated COVID-19 Cases and Deaths within LVMCOG Region ** Source: City of Los Angeles Public Health (http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/media/coronavirus/locations.htm) (as of 9/7/23)
36 WHO ( https://covid19.who.int/) (as of 9/6/23)
0 1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
6,000
7,000
Agoura Hills Calabasas Hidden Hills Malibu Westlake Village 6,429 5,956
390
2,927
457
29 47
2 15
3 COVID Cases by City
Based on Data from 9/7/23
Deaths
Figure 126: Covid-19 Cases by City
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Disasters Declarations and Emergency Proclamations
FEMA disaster declarations allow state, tribal, and local governments to access federal aid for disaster response and recovery when overwhelmed. Similarly, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) issues proclamations to mobilize state resources and streamline procedures.
FEMA Disasters Declarations
Declaration Date: 3/13/20 || California Covid-19 || DD# EM-3428-CA The Covid-19 Pandemic remained a hazard to the LVMCOG region until the incident period ended on May 11, 2023.
Cal OES Open State of Emergency Proclamations
No open emergency proclamations declared.
STAKEHOLDER INPUT AND PARTICIPATION
To identify the threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences of a pandemic on the Las VirgenesMalibu Region, each member of the Planning Group which included representatives from the cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village provided their input during planning meetings (see Annex B: Meeting Agendas and Attendees) and follow-up discussions. Specific topics of discussion included if any changes to the hazard priorities have changed since the previous HMP, how changes in the community have impacted the risk of each hazard, and what new mitigation actions can be taken. In addition, each member of the Planning Group as well as members of the public provided the input via online surveys (see Annex C:
Community Disaster Preparedness and Risk Survey, Annex D: Planning Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey, and Annex E: Planning and Public Involvement).
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PANDEMIC HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
World Health Organization (WHO) Declaration
The declaration of the beginning and end of a pandemic is typically made by the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO assesses global health situations and provides recommendations based on epidemiological data and expert analysis. When a new infectious disease spreads internationally and poses a significant threat, the WHO may declare a pandemic. The declaration is based on criteria related to the geographic spread and severity of the disease.
White House Emergency Declaration
The President of the United States has the authority to declare a federal state of emergency. This declaration grants the President certain powers and allows for the allocation of federal resources and assistance to affected states or regions. It facilitates a coordinated response across federal, state, and local agencies to address the emergency effectively.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Pandemic Declaration The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a key agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services responsible for protecting public health and safety through the control and prevention of diseases, injuries, and disabilities. The CDC may issue a pandemic declaration based on its assessment of the global spread and severity of a disease. This declaration serves as a significant public health alert, triggering coordinated efforts at the national and international levels to combat the spread of the infectious disease. It often leads to the implementation of various containment and mitigation strategies to protect public health.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, plays a critical role in pandemics by coordinating and supporting the federal government's response efforts. This includes allocating and distributing essential resources, issuing emergency declarations to unlock federal resources, and providing logistical support. They also facilitate communication and information sharing, conduct training and exercises, participate in strategic planning, and engage in community outreach and education. FEMA's overarching goal is to ensure a unified and efficient response to pandemics, working closely with federal, state, and local partners to safeguard public health and safety.
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Governor Emergency Declaration
In California, the Governor is responsible for declaring a state of emergency in the state. This declaration grants the Governor certain powers to respond effectively to emergencies, such as natural disasters or public health crises. It allows for the mobilization of resources, coordination of agencies, and implementation of emergency measures to protect public safety and well-being.
The decision to declare an emergency is based on an assessment of the situation's severity and the need for an organized and coordinated response.
Stay at Home Order
A stay-at-home order is typically issued by relevant public health authorities such as the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, often in consultation with government officials. It is a directive aimed at limiting non-essential activities and movement of individuals within a specific region or jurisdiction. The goal is to reduce the spread of a contagious disease, such as a pandemic. This order may specify exceptions for essential activities like obtaining food, seeking medical care, or engaging in essential work. Compliance with the order is crucial in minimizing the impact of the public health crisis.
Estimated Impact of an Event
The consequences to local populations and employment of a pandemic is difficult to measure.
However, it is anticipated that a severe pandemic will cause health problems, reduce economic output, and lead to unemployment. The table below provides the estimated impact of a disaster using an overall 20% loss baseline.
Category Agoura
Hills Calabasas Hidden Hills Malibu Westlake Village
Impact if a
20% Loss
Occurs
Population* 20,362 23,410 2,182 10,915 8,081 12,990
65 Years and Older* 3,164 3,873 326 3,149 2,103 2,523
Total City
Employment
11,100 11,800 4.5 6,483 3,700 6,618
Economy**
(in thousands)
$621,000 $1,011,348 N/A $578,443 $576,306 557,419
Table 170: Estimated Population and Economic Loss of a Pandemic *U.S. Census – American Community Survey 2021
**2017 U.S. Economic Census (in thousands)
Based on a 20% loss projection, nearly 12,990 people could be impacted (either directly or indirectly) including over 2,500 people aged 65 years and older (high risk group) with potentially more than 6,600 jobs lost, either temporarily or permanently resulting in a negative economic impact of more than $557M.
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Impact of Climate Change
Each city within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) is subject to the regional impact of future pandemics. Although there is no clear relationship between climate change and pandemics, certain weather patterns can cause people to congregate which can lead to greater disease spread. Furthermore, historical influenza patterns indicate a higher risk of disease spread during winter months.
Impact of Land Use and Development
There is no known relationship between pandemics and long term land use or development patterns. However a pandemic could result in the temporary alternate use of properties for expanded health care facilities
Impact of Population Patterns
A pandemic could result in the loss of populations in each city within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village). At risk populations include the very young, the elderly, and the socially disadvantaged as well as those with limited to healthcare.
Nevertheless, overall population patterns are not expected to significantly change.
Risk of Future Pandemic
For the LVMCOG Region, the risk of future climate change events was estimated by the Working Group using the following weighted formula:
Risk = (0.45 x Probability) + (0.30 x Magnitude/Severity) + (0.15 x Warning Time) + (0.10 x Duration) Probability Magnitude / Severity Warning Time Duration
Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Unlikely 1 Negligible 1 Less than 6 hrs 4 Less than 6 hrs 1 Possibly 2 Limited 2 6 to 12 hrs 3 Less than 24 hrs 2
Likely 3 Critical 3 12 to 24 hrs 2 Less than one wk 3
Highly Likely 4 Catastrophic 4 More than 24 hrs 1 More than one wk 4 The result was a climate change risk rating of 7.18 (see Annex C Working Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey for additional details):
Hazard Probability Magnitude Warning
Time Duration Risk
Pandemic 6 5.5 5.5 20 7.18
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PANDEMIC VULNERABILITIES
All cities within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) as well as the entire State of California is vulnerable to pandemics. The major concern regarding the impact on communities from loss of life, long term health problems, business and industry closures leading to severe economic loss, the closure of schools, overcrowded hospitals, and the long term impact to mental health and development. Examples of the various vulnerabilities to pandemic include:
Age
Business and Industry
Healthcare Systems
Public Gatherings
Underlying Diseases
Age
Over Age 65
Age represents a significant vulnerability in a pandemic. Older individuals, particularly those over the age of 65, are at higher risk of severe illness or death from infectious diseases. This demographic vulnerability necessitates targeted protective measures and healthcare resources.
Long-term care facilities and nursing homes, where older populations often reside, require special attention to prevent outbreaks and ensure adequate care. Vaccination efforts should prioritize this demographic to reduce their vulnerability.
Children
In the case of influenza, according to the CDC37, “Children younger than 5 years old–especially those younger than 2–are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications. Children of any age with certain chronic health conditions are also at higher risk; during the 2022-2023 flu season, 66 percent of children 0 to 17 years old hospitalized with flu had at least one underlying health condition, such as asthma, neurologic disease, obesity, or immune suppression.” Pregnancy
The CDC further notes that, “influenza is more likely to cause illness that results in hospitalization in pregnant people than in people of reproductive age who are not pregnant. Flu also may be harmful for a pregnant person’s developing baby. A common flu symptom is fever, which has been associated in some studies with neural tube defects and other adverse outcomes for a developing baby.”
Any Age Group - Spanish Flu Example
As stated by the Cleveland Clinic, “from 1918 to 1919, the Spanish flu infected an estimated 500 million people globally. This amounted to about 33% of the world’s population at the time. In addition, the Spanish flu killed about 50 million people. About 675,000 of the deaths were in the U.S. Just like the flu we get today, the Spanish flu was particularly harmful to infants under age 5 and people over the age of 65. One thing that was different about the Spanish flu was that it also killed a large number of healthy adults, aged 20 to 40 years.”38 37 https://www.cdc.gov/flu/highrisk/children.htm
38 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21777-spanish-flu Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Business and Industry
A pandemic exposes vulnerabilities within the business and industrial sectors. Disruptions in supply chains, reduced consumer demand, and workforce (due to illness or quarantine measures) can significantly impact economic stability. Although business of any size are likely to be impacted, small businesses may face additional challenges. Industries reliant on physical presence, such as manufacturing, hospitality, and entertainment, are particularly vulnerable.
Healthcare System
The healthcare system faces extreme vulnerabilities during a pandemic. Sudden surges in patients can strain resources, leading to shortages of critical supplies, beds, and healthcare professionals.
This can hinder the ability to provide optimal care, not only for COVID-19 patients but also for individuals with other medical needs. Moreover, healthcare workers themselves are at heightened risk of exposure.
Public Gatherings
Large gatherings present a significant vulnerability during a pandemic. Events such as conferences, concerts, and sports gatherings can serve as hotspots for viral transmission.
Inadequate social distancing and limited adherence to preventive measures can increase the spread of a viral infection. Balancing societal and economic needs with public health measures becomes a critical challenge. Implementing restrictions on gatherings, promoting virtual alternatives, and enforcing safety protocols are vital strategies to mitigate this vulnerability.
Underlying Disease
Individuals with underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, or respiratory conditions, are more susceptible to severe outcomes from a pandemic. These conditions can exacerbate the impact of the virus and increase mortality rates. Adequate healthcare support and targeted public health messaging are essential in protecting this vulnerable population.
Additionally, vaccination campaigns and early detection and management of underlying conditions are crucial preventive measures.
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VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
In Agoura Hills, the elderly and those speaking languages other than English are particularly vulnerable during pandemics. The elderly may face increased risk of severe illness and complications due to pre-existing health conditions and weakened immune systems. Non-English speakers may struggle with accessing accurate health information and resources, potentially leading to delays in seeking medical care and following public health guidelines.
Calabasas residents, including those on fixed incomes, transitory workers, homeless individuals, and elderly or disabled residents, face heightened risks during pandemics. Fixed-income residents may lack the financial means to afford necessary healthcare and preventive measures. Transitory workers and homeless individuals often lack stable housing, making it difficult to maintain hygiene and access healthcare. Elderly and disabled residents may experience significant difficulty in accessing medical care and support services, increasing their risk of severe illness.
In Hidden Hills, the older population, households with disabilities, and those with limited transportation capabilities are at substantial risk during pandemics. Older adults and those with disabilities may find it challenging to access healthcare and support services, and limited transportation can hinder their ability to reach medical facilities. Additionally, their pre-existing health conditions may make them more susceptible to severe illness.
Malibu's transitory workers, elderly population, lower-income residents, and homeless individuals are particularly vulnerable during pandemics. Transitory workers and the homeless often lack stable housing and access to healthcare, increasing their risk of infection and complications.
Elderly individuals may struggle with pre-existing health conditions and limited access to medical care, while lower-income residents may lack the financial means to afford necessary healthcare and preventive measures.
In Westlake Village, the elderly, disabled, homeless individuals, and residents speaking a language other than English face significant risks during pandemics. The elderly and disabled may find it difficult to access healthcare and support services due to mobility issues and health concerns.
Homeless individuals are highly vulnerable due to lack of shelter and resources. Non-English speakers may miss critical health information and guidelines, increasing their risk during pandemics.
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PANDEMIC HAZARD IDENTIFICATION MITIGATION STRATEGIES
National COVID-19 Preparedness Plan
The COVID-19 Preparedness Plan created by The White House aims to address the COVID-19 Pandemic, which includes measures for testing, vaccination, healthcare infrastructure, and public health initiatives.
Protect Against and Treat COVID-19
The first category, "Protect Against and Treat COVID-19," emphasizes the critical importance of vaccination. It prioritizes the administration of vaccines to all eligible individuals, with a specific focus on providing booster shots. Additionally, the plan calls for the widespread availability and accessibility of testing to facilitate early detection and containment of the virus. Equitable access to high-quality treatments for COVID-19 is also highlighted, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary care and support. The category underscores the need to equip hospitals and healthcare facilities with the resources and personnel required to effectively manage and treat COVID-19 cases.
Prepare for New Variants
The second category, "Prepare for New Variants," addresses the dynamic nature of the virus. It places a strong emphasis on genomic sequencing and surveillance to detect and monitor emerging variants. In the event of new variants, the plan calls for the development and deployment of targeted vaccines and treatments to effectively respond. International collaboration and coordination are crucial in this regard, with a focus on strengthening partnerships to collectively address challenges posed by global variants.
Prevent Economic and Educational Shutdowns
The third category, "Prevent Economic and Educational Shutdowns," emphasizes a balanced approach to public health measures. It aims to control outbreaks without resorting to widespread shutdowns of businesses and educational institutions. The plan provides support to these sectors, offering resources and guidance to ensure safe operations. Furthermore, economic relief measures are implemented to assist individuals and families facing challenges due to the pandemic, helping to maintain stability and resilience in the face of economic uncertainties.
Continue to Vaccinate the World
The fourth category, "Continue to Vaccinate the World," highlights the significance of global vaccination efforts. It involves the acceleration of initiatives to share vaccine doses and support vaccine production on a global scale. The plan places an emphasis on building international partnerships and cooperation to address issues related to vaccine access and distribution.
Additionally, efforts are directed towards strengthening vaccine manufacturing capacity in lowand middle-income countries, ensuring equitable access to vaccines for all populations worldwide.
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LVMCOG Mitigation Activities
Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
In addition to the actions taken by individual cities, in 2022, the LVMCOG co-sponsored no cost COVID-19 testing for
the community. Furthermore, as part of Los Angeles County, each city implemented the guidance issued by the Los
Angeles County Department of Health as well as the
mandates issued by the State of California.
Agoura Hills
The Agoura Hills website offers essential COVID-19
information. This encompasses details on getting fully
vaccinated or receiving a booster, executive directives, rent relief information, following mask mandates, testing
guidelines, obtaining complimentary rapid testing kits, and providing instructions for isolation in case of infection.
Calabasas
The Calabasas city website provides a range of COVID-19 information. This includes general details about the virus, statistics on cases and fatalities, vaccination guidance, executive directives, outreach initiatives, support for employees and businesses, as well as resources regarding eviction.
Additionally, the city provides information about the L.A. County Great Plates Delivered Program, specifically tailored for senior residents.
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Calabasas
The Hidden Hills city website includes a
comprehensive array of COVID-19 resources.
This includes links for: Vaccine Eligibility and
Guidance, Testing Information, Details about the
Tenant Relief Act, Health Resources, Reopening
Guidelines, and Other Relevant General
Information Regarding COVID-19.
Malibu
The City of Malibu is equipped and able to operate
both a testing and vaccination site for future
pandemics. During 2020 and 2021, the City partnered with local Urgent Care Centers and community volunteers to operate a regular testing site and a vaccination site. The relationships and capabilities that were created during that time remain intact and can be activated very quickly.
Westlake Village
The City of Westlake Village website provides a
variety of COVID-19 information and vital
resources about the virus, along with crucial
resources like vaccination and testing information,
local ordinances, support for businesses and
workers, rental assistance, job loss aid, CDC travel
advisories, and additional pertinent information.
In addition, the city’s ReadyWLV.org website
provides ongoing news and information.
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SECTION 16. TERRORISM AND MASS VIOLENCE
THE NATURE OF THE TERRORISM AND MASS VIOLENCE THREAT
Terrorism is a continuing threat throughout the world and within the United States. There is no history of terrorist acts or terrorist groups operating in the Las Virgenes Malibu Region.
Consequently, the probability of a terrorist attack is considered low. Nevertheless, it is still important to consider the potential for terrorist activities especially since there are a variety of political, social, religious, cultural, and economic factors that underlie the broad term “terrorist”.
In addition, since terrorists often focus on high visibility targets and civilian populations, the potential consequences of an attack underscore the need to consider terrorism as part of this mitigation plan.
Furthermore, while Mass Violence events such as “Active Shooter” incidents are generally considered workplace or school focused and are criminal acts, they can also be considered forms of terrorism. There are specific characteristics that can link some Active Shooter cases to terrorism. Namely the targeting of vulnerable populations resulting in loss of life and an intent to intimidate. While the risk of Mass Violence events such as Active Shooter incidents is still considered low, including all forms of terrorism is an important component of a comprehensive mitigation plan.
HISTORY OF TERRORIST AND MASS VIOLENCE EVENTS IN THE LAS VIRGENESMALIBU REGION The Las Virgenes-Malibu Region has not experienced a terrorist act or incidence of mass violence; however, it does include a variety of important businesses, public sites, pipelines, electrical infrastructure, and high-profile individuals which could attract the attention of terrorists. In addition, there are multiple schools, shopping areas, public venues, and private businesses that could experience mass violence attacks. The consequences of a terrorist act or mass violence incident in the region could also impact the local area, e.g., disruption of CA 101, Pacific Coast Highway, local streets, etc. Furthermore, there is a possibility that extremist groups or lone attackers could operate from the area and use it as a base of operations for attacks elsewhere.
Specific Threats
Recent trends toward large scale incidents generating significant casualties make preparedness and the mechanisms for effective response essential. In addition to large scale attacks, a full range of assault styles must be considered. Terrorists or mass violence perpetrators may include a variety of methods including letter bombs, large-scale bombs, active shooter incidents, car or truck attacks, knife assaults, bio-chemical attacks, car bombs, suicide attacks, or hostage taking.
Venues likely to suffer the impact of terrorism or mass violence include government facilities, military facilities and recruiting offices, military suppliers, hospitals, entertainment and cultural facilities, religious centers, shopping malls, business complexes, movie theaters, public arenas, colleges, schools, and research centers.
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Motivation
Conventional political motivation for terrorism continue, however issues involving organized crime, narcotics trafficking, ecological/animal rights, abortion/right-to-life groups, and perceived economic injustice can also involve terrorist groups or lone individual “Lone Wolf” planning, and operations. In addition, increased motivation may be attributed to the growing use of the Internet for terrorist recruitment, training, and communications as well as social media as outlets for mass violence perpetrators to publicize their activities and motivation.
Disasters Declarations and Emergency Proclamations
FEMA disaster declarations allow state, tribal, and local governments to access federal aid for disaster response and recovery when overwhelmed. Similarly, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) issues proclamations to mobilize state resources and streamline procedures.
FEMA Disasters Declarations
No disaster declarations.
Cal OES Open State of Emergency Proclamations
No open emergency proclamations declared.
CAUSES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF TERRORISM AND MASS VIOLENCE INCIDENTS Terrorism
Defining Terrorism
There are multiple definitions of terrorism in common use. The United States Code defines terrorism as premeditated, politically motivated violence perpetrated against noncombatant targets by sub-national groups or clandestine agents usually intended to influence an audience. The United States Department of Justice defines terrorism as a violent act dangerous to human life, in violation of the criminal laws of the U.S. or any segment to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives. The FBI defines terrorism as the unlawful use of force or violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives.
All three of these definitions share important components:
1. Criminal action
2. The action must include violence against civilians
3. The action is carried out in order to further political or social objectives
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Terrorism Hazard Identification
The categories below serve to differentiate terrorist organizations or individuals according to common goals and motivation. It should be noted that these categories of terrorism and terrorist groups are constantly changing. In addition, the “Lone Wolf” terrorism (individuals not connected to a terror cell or larger group, but who commit acts of public violence, often on behalf of a personal grievance) has added another dimension.
Category Description
Separatist Separatist groups are those with the goal of separation from existing entities through independence, political autonomy, or religious freedom or domination. The ideologies separatists subscribe to include social justice or equity, anti-imperialism, as well as the resistance to conquest or occupation by a foreign power.
Ethnocentric Groups of this persuasion see race as the defining characteristic of a society, and therefore a basis of cohesion. There is usually the attitude that a particular group is superior because of their inherent racial characteristics.
Nationalistic The loyalty and devotion to a nation, and the national consciousness derived from placing one nation's culture and interests above those of other nations or groups. This can find expression in the creation of a new nation or in splitting away part of an existing state to join with another that shares the perceived "national" identity.
Revolutionary Dedicated to the overthrow of an established order and replacing it with a new political or social structure. Although often associated with communist political ideologies, this is not always the case, and other political movements can advocate revolutionary methods to achieve their goals
Political Political ideologies are concerned with the structure and organization of the forms of government and communities. While observers outside terrorist organizations may stress differences in political ideology, the activities of groups that are diametrically opposed on the political spectrum are similar to each other in practice.
Religious Religiously inspired terrorism is on the rise. While Islamic terrorists and organizations have been the most publicized, all of the major world religions have extremists that have taken up violence to further their perceived religious goals. Religiously motivated terrorists see their objectives as holy writ, and therefore infallible and non-negotiable Social Often particular social policies or issues will be so contentious that they will incite extremist behavior and terrorism. Frequently this is referred to as "single issue" or "special interest" terrorism. Some issues that have produced terrorist activities in the United States and other countries include animal rights, abortion, ecology/environment, and minority rights.
Domestic These terrorists are "home-grown" and operate within and against their home country. They are frequently tied to extreme social or political factions within a particular society and focus their efforts specifically on their nation's socio-political arena.
International or
Transnational
Often describing the support and operational reach of a group, these terms are often loosely defined, and can be applied to widely different capabilities. International groups typically operate in multiple countries but retain a geographic focus for their activities. Hezbollah has cells worldwide, and has conducted operations in multiple countries, but is primarily concerned with events in Lebanon and Israel.
Transnational groups operate internationally, but are not tied to a particular country, or even region. Al Qaeda is transnational; being made up of many nationalities, having been based out of multiple countries simultaneously, and conducting operations throughout the world. Their objectives affect dozens of countries with differing political systems, religions, ethnic compositions, and national interests
Table 171: Terrorist Group Categories
Source: http://www.terrorism-research.com/groups/categories.php Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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International Terrorist Groups
International terrorist groups can operate anywhere and act without regard to national borders.
U.S. Code Title 18 Part I, Chapter 113b § 2331 defines international terrorism as activities that:
(A) involve violent acts or acts dangerous to human life that are a violation of the criminal laws of the United States or of any State, or that would be a criminal violation if committed within the jurisdiction of the United States or of any State; (B) appear to be intended:
(i) to intimidate or coerce a civilian population;
(ii) to influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion; or (iii) to affect the conduct of a government by mass destruction, assassination, or kidnapping; and
(C) occur primarily outside the territorial jurisdiction of the United States, or transcend national boundaries in terms of the means by which they are accomplished, the persons they appear intended to intimidate or coerce, or the locale in which their perpetrators operate or seek asylum
The U.S. State Department issues and maintains the Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) List which documents current threat groups. The current FTO is listed below:
1. Segunda Marquetalia
2. Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia – People’s
Army (FARC-EP)
3. ISIS-DRC
4. ISIS-Mozambique
5. Harakat Sawa’d Misr (HASM)
6. Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq (AAH)
7. Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)
8. Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM)
9. al-Ashtar Brigades
10. ISIS in the Greater Sahara (ISIS-GS)
11. ISIS-West Africa
12. ISIS-Philippines
13. ISIS-Bangladesh
14. Hizbul Mujahideen (HM)
15. al-Qa’ida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS)
16. ISIS-Libya
17. Islamic State’s Khorasan Province (ISIS-K)
18. Jaysh Rijal al-Tariq al Naqshabandi (JRTN)
19. al-Nusrah Front, aka Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (ANF/HTS) — Jabhat Fath al-Sham Amendment (November 14,
2016)
— Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham Amendment (June 1, 2018)
20. ISIS-Sinai Province (formerly Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis) — ISIL Sinai Province Amendment (September 30,
2015)
21. Ansar al-Shari’a in Benghazi
22. Ansar al-Shari’a in Darnah
23. Ansar al-Shari’a in Tunisia
24. al-Mulathamun Battalion, aka al-Murabitoun
25. Ansaru
26. Boko Haram
27. Ansar al-Dine (AAD)
28. Haqqani Network (HQN)
29. Abdallah Azzam Brigades
— Marwan Hadid Brigades Amendment (November 2,
2017)
30. Jemaah Anshorut Tauhid (JAT)
31. Indian Mujahedeen (IM)
39. al-Shabaab
— al-Hijra Amendment (August 1, 2018)
40. Harakat ul-Jihad-i-Islami/Bangladesh (HUJI-B)
41. Islamic Jihad Union (IJU)
42. ISIS (formerly al-Qa’ida in Iraq)
— Islamic State of Iraq Amendment (January 26, 2012)
— al-Hayat Media Center and Amaq News Agency
Amendments (March 22, 2019)
43. Continuity Irish Republican Army (CIRA)
44. Ansar al-Islam (AAI)
45. Lashkar i Jhangvi (LJ)
46. Jemaah Islamiya (JI)
47. Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army (CPP/NPA)
48. al-Qa’ida in the Islamic Maghreb (formerly Salafist Group for Call and Combat)
— AQIM Amendment (February 20, 2008)
49. Asbat al-Ansar (AAA)
50. Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade (AAMB)
51. Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT)
— Tehrik-e-Tahafuz Qibla Awwal, Tehrik-e-Hurmat-eRasool, and Al-Anfal Trust Amendments (June 26, 2014) — Al Muhammadia Students Amendment (December 30,
2016)
— Tehreek-e-Azadi-e-Kashmir and Milli Muslim League
Amendments (April 4, 2018)
52. Jaish-e-Mohammed (JEM)
53. New Irish Republican Army (formerly Real IRA)
— New IRA Amendment (June 30, 2023)
54. Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU)
55. al-Qa’ida (AQ)
56. Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG)
57. HAMAS
58. Harakat ul-Mujahidin (HUM)
— Ansar ul-Ummah Amendment (August 8, 2014)
59. Hizballah
60. Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK)
61. Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)
62. National Liberation Army (ELN)
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32. Army of Islam (AOI)
33. Jaysh al-Adl (formerly Jundallah)
— Jaysh al-Adl Amendment (July 2, 2019)
34. Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP)
35. Harakat ul-Jihad-i-Islami (HUJI)
36. al-Qa’ida in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP)
— Ansar al-Shari’a Amendment (October 5, 2012)
37. Kata’ib Hizballah (KH)
38. Revolutionary Struggle (RS)
63. Palestine Liberation Front (PLF)
64. Palestine Islamic Jihad (PIJ)
65. Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP)
66. PFLP-General Command (PFLP-GC)
67. Revolutionary People’s Liberation Party/Front (DHKP/C)
68. Shining Path (Sendero Luminoso, SL)
Table 172: Foreign Terrorist Organizations
SOURCE: https://www.state.gov/foreign-terrorist-organizations/ International terrorist groups often have state sponsors who view terrorism as a tool of foreign policy. State sponsors of terrorism engage in anti-Western terrorist activities by funding, organizing, networking, and providing other support to many extremists.
Country Designation Date
Cuba January 12, 2021
Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) November 20, 2017 Iran January 19, 1984
Syria December 29, 1979
Table 173: State Sponsors of Terrorism
Source: U.S. State Department
Domestic Terrorism in the United States
Domestic terrorism involves attacks within the United States perpetrated by homegrown groups or individuals. U.S. Code Title 18 Part I, Chapter 113b § 2331 defines domestic terrorism as activities that:
(A) involve acts dangerous to human life that are a violation of the criminal laws of the United States or of any State;
(B) appear to be intended—
i. to intimidate or coerce a civilian population;
ii. to influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion; or iii. to affect the conduct of a government by mass destruction, assassination, or kidnapping; and
(C) occur primarily within the territorial jurisdiction of the United States.
Domestic Extremist and Hate Groups
The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) conducted an analysis of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) documentation related to domestic terrorism and developed the following categories for the various threat groups currently operating in the U.S.
Threat Group Category Definition
Racially or Ethnically
Motivated Violent
Extremism
Potentially unlawful use or threat of force or violence in furtherance of ideological agendas derived from bias, often related to race or ethnicity, held by the actor against others or a given population group. Such extremists purport to use both political and religious justifications to support their racially or ethnically-based ideological objectives and criminal activities.
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Threat Group Category Definition
Anti-Government Or AntiAuthority Violent
Extremism
Potentially unlawful use or threat of force or violence in furtherance of ideological agendas derived from anti-government or anti-authority sentiment, including opposition to perceived economic, social, or racial hierarchies, or perceived government overreach, negligence, or illegitimacy.
Animal
Rights/Environmental
Violent Extremism
Potentially unlawful use or threat of force or violence in furtherance of ideological agendas by those seeking to end or mitigate perceived cruelty, harm, or exploitation of animals and/or the perceived exploitation or destruction of natural resources and the environment.
Abortion-Related Violent
Extremism
Potentially unlawful use or threat of force or violence in furtherance of ideological agendas relating to abortion, including individuals who advocate for violence in support of either pro-life or pro-choice beliefs.
All Other Domestic
Terrorism Threats
Potentially unlawful use or threat of force or violence in furtherance of ideological agendas which are not otherwise defined under or primarily motivated by one of the other domestic terrorism threat categories. Such agendas could flow from, but are not limited to, a combination of personal grievances and beliefs, including those described in the other domestic terrorism categories. Some actors in this category may also carry bias related to religion, gender, or sexual orientation.
Domestic Terrorist Incidents
According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, “There were 231 incidents (meaning attacks or plots) that met the definition of domestic terrorism between 2010 and 2021, according to DHS. They occurred across the United States, but the greatest number of incidents occurred in states with major metropolitan areas such as California (Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco), New York (New York City), and Washington, DC.” Figure 127: U.S. GAO - Domestic Terrorism Incidents by State, 2010 through 2021 Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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The categories of incidents from 2010 to 2021
were led by Racially or Ethnically Motivated
and Anti-Government / Anti-Authority Violent
Extremists (RMVE).
Domestic Terrorism / Hate Group Examples
Examples of domestic terrorist / hate group
incidents include the following cases as
reported by DHS:
In March 2023, a RMVE driven by a belief
in the superiority of the white race was
arrested and charged with allegedly
attempting to use an improvised incendiary
device to burn down a church in Ohio that
was planning to host a drag-themed event.
In February 2023, two RMVEs driven by a belief in the superiority of the white race were arrested and are now awaiting trial for plotting an attack against electrical substations in Maryland. These arrests followed a series of recent attacks against electrical infrastructure, which some DVEs have praised and leveraged to call for more attacks on critical infrastructure.
Since spring of 2022, alleged DVEs in Georgia have cited anarchist violent extremism, animal rights/environmental violent extremism, and anti-law enforcement sentiment to justify criminal activity in opposition to a planned public safety training facility in Atlanta. Criminal acts have included an alleged shooting and assaults targeting law enforcement and property damage targeting the facility, construction companies, and financial institutions for their perceived involvement with the planned facility.
Meanwhile, foreign terrorists continue to use media to call for lone offender attacks in the West, condemn US foreign policy, and attempt to expand their reach and grow global support networks. Most recently, in January 2023, an individual from Maine who was inspired by a variety of foreign terrorist content was charged with federal crimes for an attack on New York City Police Department (NYPD) officers during New Year’s Eve celebrations in Times Square.
Other examples of domestic terrorism events include:
Year Event Description
2013, April 15 Boston Marathon Bombing Bombing at the Boston Marathon resulting in 3 deaths and several hundred injuries.
2010, February 18 Austin, Texas IRS Airplane Attack
Aircraft attack on an IRS office building by a believed antigovernment / anti-corporate business extremist resulting in 1 death
2009, November 5 Fort Hood Shootings Shooting attack of a believed Islamic extremist resulting in 13 deaths and 30 wounded
2009, May 31 Assassination of Dr. George Tiller Murder of a nationally known physician that performed lateterm abortions 2001 September 18
(start) U.S. Anthrax Attacks A series of letters containing anthrax spores lasting several weeks resulting in 5 deaths and 17 infections 1996, July 27 Centennial Olympic Park Bombing 1996 Summer Olympic bombing in Atlanta, GA resulting in 2 deaths and 111 injuries
1995, April 19 Oklahoma City Bombing Truck bomb resulting in 168 people killed Table 174: Domestic Terrorism Examples
Figure 128: U.S. GAO - Domestic Terrorism-Related Incidents by Category, from 2010 through 2021
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Post 9/11
After September 11, 2001, the United States has increased its security policies and procedures at the national and local level. Since then, Federal Grants for counterterrorism have increased to approximately seventy-five billion dollars per year from federal and state governments according to Kim Murphy of Los Angeles Times in an article dated August 2011. These grants have provided local counties and cities funds to strengthen their security procedures, implement needed mitigation actions, or provide first responders with specialized training and equipment.
Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)
Weapons of Mass Destruction are a specific type of threat that must be considered by any community. For the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region, this may involve the activation of a WMD within the area or a large-scale attack in a nearby location. Consequently, ongoing awareness and training of local emergency responders, government, and healthcare providers is important to ensure that such events are quickly identified and managed.
Five Types of WMD That Could be Used by Terrorists
WMD can be segregated into five categories using the acronym B-NICE: Biological, Nuclear, Incendiary, Chemical and Explosive.
1. Four common types of biological agents are bacteria, viruses, rickettsia, and toxins.
2. Nuclear terrorism can occur in two different ways.
a. Detonation or threat of detonation of a nuclear bomb b. Dispersion of radiological material using a conventional explosive or other dispersal device
3. An incendiary device is any mechanical, electrical, or chemical device used to intentionally initiate combustion and start a fire.
4. Chemical agents can be classified into five categories: nerve agents, blister agents, blood agents, choking agents, and irritating agents.
5. Explosive devices are the most common WMD (70% of all terrorist attacks).
While explosives are the most common method, any of the WMDs listed can be deployed at any time. Consequently, threat awareness and vigilance are critical to prevent future attacks.
In one well-known case a plot to detonate a car bomb at the Los Angeles International Airport was uncovered by an alert U.S. Customers inspector. On December 14, 1999, Ahmed Ressam (aka the Millennium Bomber) was arrested after a U.S. Customs inspector had his vehicle searched after he had successfully boarded a ferry from Canada to Port Angeles, Washington. The inspector is credited for noticing Ressam’s behavior as unusual and ordering a secondary customs search and a check of his passport. As a result, chemicals and explosive timing devices were found in the trunk of his vehicle and his passport was identified as counterfeit. Ressam was subsequently jailed and convicted on multiple counts.
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Mass Violence
Defining Mass Violence
Mass violence involves shootings, car or truck attacks against pedestrians, and other targeting that results in harm to multiple victims. As defined by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), an active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area. The federal definition of “mass killings,” according to the Investigative Assistance for Violent Crimes Act is, “three or more killings in a single incident.” (not including the shooter).
Mass Violence Incidents in the United States
In 2022, the FBI designated 50 shootings as active shooter incidents. Although incidents decreased by 18% from 2021 (61 incidents), the number of active shooter incidents increased by 66.7% compared to 2018 (30 incidents).39 The 50 active shooter incidents in 2022 occurred in 25 states and the District of Columbia and represent seven location categories, including open spaces, commerce, residences, education, government, houses of worship, and a health care facility.
Figure 129: Active Shooter Incidents 2018 -2022
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigations
39 Active Shooting Incidents in the U.S. in 2022, FBI April 2023 Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Mass Shooting Events
Mass shooting events include the following examples since 2018:
Year Event Description
2023, May 6 Allen Texas Premium Outlets Mall
Shooting
A gunman killed 8 and injured 7 others at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas in a possible racially or ethnically motivated violent extremist (RMVE) attack
2023, March 27 Nashville School Shooting A mass shooting killed 3 children and 3 adults at The Covenant School in Nashville, Tennessee
2023, August 26 Jacksonville Shooting / Hate Crime
An attack inside a Dollar General store in Jacksonville, Florida resulted in the deaths of 3 adults before the shooter committed suicide. The incident was believed to be a racially motivated hate crime.
2023, August 23 Trabuco Canyon Shooting
A mass shooting occurred at the Cook’s Corner Bar in
Trabuco Canyon, California killing 4 people and injuring 6 others before the shooter was shot and killed by law
enforcement
2022, November 19 Colorado Springs Nightclub Shooting A shooting inside the Club Q nightclub in Colorado Springs, Colorado resulting in 5 deaths and 25 injuries
2022, July 4 Highland Park Parade Shooting A gunman opened fire on a July 4th parade in Highland Park, Illinois killing 7 and wounding 48 people before his capture 2022, June 5 Chattanooga Shooting A shooting occurred inside a nightclub in Chattanooga, Tennessee resulting in 2 fatalities and 12 wounded
2022, May 15 Laguna Woods Shooting
A gunman inside a church in Laguna Woods, California killing 1 person and wounded 5 others in what is believed to be a racially motivated anti-Taiwanese hate crime
2022, May 14 Buffalo Tops Market Shooting A white supremacist shooter opened fire inside a Tops Market in Buffalo, New York killing 10 and wounding 3
2021, November 30 Oxford High School Shooting A student at Oxford High School in Oxford, Michigan shot and killed 4 while wounding 6 before being arrested
2021, May 26 Santa Clara VTA Shooting
An employee at the Santa Clara Valley Transportation
Authority in San Jose, California opened fire, killing 9 before committing suicide
2021, April 15 Indianapolis FedEx Shooting A former employee at the FedEx facility near the Indianapolis Airport shot and killed 8 people before committing suicide 2019, December 10 New Jersey Shooting A man and a woman ambushed and killed 4 people and injured 3 at a kosher grocery store in New Jersey
2019, December 6 Naval Air Station Pensacola Shooting A man killed 3 and injured 8 in a possible terrorist attack on the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida
2019, November 14 Saugus High School Shooting A student shot and killed 2 other students and wounded 3 others at Saugus High School in Santa Clarita, California 2019, August 3 El Paso Shooting
A gunman shot and killed 23 people and injured 23 at a
Walmart in El Paso, Texas in a suspected racially motivated attack
2019, July 28 Gilroy Garlic Festival Shooting A gunman shot 16 people and killed 4 at the Gilroy Garlic Festival in Gilroy, California
2019, April 30 University of North Carolina at
Charlotte Shooting
A student shot and killed 2 people and wounded 4 at the University of North Carolina before being taken into custody 2018, November 7 Thousand Oaks Shooting A gunman shot and killed 12 people and injured 16 at a bar at a student event in Thousand Oaks, California
2018, October 27 Tree of Life Synagogue Shooting
A man shot and killed 11 people and wounded 6 at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in an antisemitic attack before being taken into custody by police
2018, May 18 Santa Fe High School Shooting
A student at Santa Fe High School in Santa Fe, Texas shot and killed 10 people and wounded 14 others before being arrested by police
2018, February 14 Parkland High School Shooting
A former student at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High
School in Parkland, Florida opened fire, killing 17 and wounding 17 others before being taken into custody by police Table 175: Mass Shooting Examples: 2018 to 2023
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ESTIMATED IMPACT OF A TERRORIST EVENT OR MASS VIOLENCE INCIDENT If a terrorist event or mass casualty incident were to occur, the consequences to local populations and employment may be significant depending on the site or sites targeted. The table below provides the estimated impact of a disaster using a 0.1% loss baseline.
Category Agoura Hills Calabasas Hidden Hills Malibu Westlake Village
Impact if a
0.1% Loss
Occurs
Population 20,362 23,410 2,182 10,915 8,081 65
Total City
Employment
11,100 11,800 4.5 6,483 3,700 33
Economy
(in thousands)
$621,000 $1,011,348 $- $578,443 $576,306 $2,787
Table 176: Estimated Population and Economic Loss of Terrorist Events Source U.S. Census Bureau 2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate Based on a 0.1% loss projection, an estimated 65 people could be impacted (either directly or indirectly), 33 jobs lost (either temporarily or permanently), and more than $2.7M in economic losses. Since a terrorist or mass violence target will likely focus on public meeting venues, commercial structures, or transportation routes, the projected impact is focused on population and employment (see individual city Community Profile sections for population and economic data).
Impact of Climate Change
Each city within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) is subject to the terrorism and mass violence but there is no direct evidence of climate change impacting the occurrence of either event. Except that protests around climate change can escalate into violence and occur anywhere in the region.
Impact of Land Use and Development
There is no anticipated relationship between terrorism or mass violence in terms of land use or development.
Impact of Population Patterns
If a terrorism event or mass violence situation occurs in any LVMCOG city, overall population patterns are not expected to change.
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Risk of Future Terrorism / Mass Casualty
For the LVMCOG Region, the risk of future climate change events was estimated by the Working Group using the following weighted formula:
Risk = (0.45 x Probability) + (0.30 x Magnitude/Severity) + (0.15 x Warning Time) + (0.10 x Duration) Probability Magnitude / Severity Warning Time Duration
Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Level ID Value Unlikely 1 Negligible 1 Less than 6 hrs 4 Less than 6 hrs 1 Possibly 2 Limited 2 6 to 12 hrs 3 Less than 24 hrs 2
Likely 3 Critical 3 12 to 24 hrs 2 Less than one wk 3
Highly Likely 4 Catastrophic 4 More than 24 hrs 1 More than one wk 4 The result was a climate change risk rating of 9.85 (see Annex C Working Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey for additional details):
Hazard Probability Magnitude Warning
Time Duration Risk
Terrorism / Mass
Casualty 10 4.67 20 9.5 9.85
TERRORISM AND MASS VIOLENCE VULNERABILITIES
The probability that an individual or location will be targeted by a terrorist or mass violence perpetrator is a function of several factors including the attractiveness of target, the potential for success of the event and the potential for avoiding identification and capture. Categories of potential targets include:
Terrorism Targets Mass Violence Targets
Symbolic buildings
Federal, state, and local government buildings
including military sites and recruiting stations
Mass-transit facilities
Public buildings and assembly areas
Controversial businesses and defense industry
companies
Communications hubs
Utility production facilities and substations
Water supply locations
Research laboratories
Clinics and hospitals
Religious sites
Places where large groups of people congregate
Universities and college campuses
Schools
Businesses (any size or type)
Government offices
Military installations (including recruiting
offices)
Bars and night clubs
Theaters
Public parks
Shopping areas and malls
Stadiums and public arenas
Other places where large groups of people
congregate (e.g., public events such as fairs,
marathons, etc.)
Table 177: Terrorism and Mass Violence Targets
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All cities within the LVMCOG (Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village) as well as the entire country is vulnerable to the threat of terrorism and mass violence.
While the major concern is the loss of life and injuries, other areas of vulnerability include damage to critical infrastructure, business and industry closures leading to severe economic loss, the closure of schools, overcrowded hospitals, panicked citizens, and the long term impact to mental health and development. Other concerns are outlined in terms of the impact to the overall community below.
Impact on the Community
Following a terrorist attack or mass violence incident, panic, intense media interest, and the convergence of injured and possibly contaminated persons at local hospitals and urgent care centers can be expected. While local, state, and federal agencies will be mobilized to respond, it will take time for assistance to arrive. Many specialized resources (such as military or law enforcement agency response teams) may be needed, requiring local resources to manage the initial phases of an emergency – especially in the case of a mass casualty event. This initial response phase may range from hours to a day or more. Consequently, a rapid assessment of the scope of the incident and activation of local emergency response resources will be critical to manage the situation.
Key issues include:
Activation of local and regional Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) Designation of casualty collection points and field triage/treatment sites Transportation (for personnel, equipment, and supplies to the impact location as well as casualty and public evacuation)
Isolation (if needed to prevent further contamination)
Use of personal protection equipment (PPEs)
Communications (including internal communication, media response, and public bulletins) Decontamination points (if required)
Establishing a secure perimeter
Post event site and public relations management
Efforts to assess the situation and provide clear, easy to follow emergency management instructions to the public are essential.
STAKEHOLDER INPUT AND PARTICIPATION
To identify the threats, vulnerabilities, and consequences of a major terrorism / mass violence event on the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region, each member of the Planning Group which included representatives from the cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Malibu, and Westlake Village provided their input during planning meetings (see Annex B: Meeting Agendas and Attendees) and follow-up discussions. Specific topics of discussion included if any changes to the hazard priorities have changed since the previous HMP, how changes in the community have impacted the risk of each hazard, and what new mitigation actions can be taken. In addition, each member of the Planning Group as well as members of the public provided the input via online surveys (see Annex C: Community Disaster Preparedness and Risk Survey, Annex D: Planning Group HMP Risk Assessment Survey, and Annex E: Planning and Public Involvement).
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The following table describes examples of the considerations expected during the initial stages of a terrorist event or mass casualty incident.
Condition Description
Down Wind
Evacuation
A large chemical or biological release may result in a lethal plume that may travel for miles. Emergency agencies in neighboring jurisdictions must be advised of the release and included in incident management activities.
Traffic Restrictions
and Congestion
Roads, freeways and transit systems may need to be closed to contain the incident. Regardless of the need, panic may cause some persons to selfevacuate, Traffic congestion and gridlock conditions and confusion may result.
These factors will slow response by emergency agencies and specialized resources to affected areas. Detailed traffic management plans will need to be developed.
Self-Transport to
Medical Providers
Following a WMD incident, injured and contaminated victims may leave the immediate site of the incident and then go to hospitals. In most cases, the care provider will not be equipped to decontaminate victims or treat terrorist attack related casualties. This can extend the scope of the incident, potentially lead to secondary contamination and strain local medical and emergency response resources. Local hospitals impacted by an influx of casualties who have not been decontaminated will have to establish decontamination area and may not be able to continue providing treatment.
For either a terrorist event or mass casualty incident, local hospitals may become overwhelmed with patients and be able to fully provide immediate care.
Public Panic In the immediate aftermath of a terrorist event involving a chemical or biologic agent, responders should anticipate people who think they have been exposed to or contaminated by the agent(s) even though there has been no actual exposure.
Provisions must be made to manage these persons and provide supportive care as necessary.
Similarly, during and after a terrorist event or mass casualty incident may become panicked regarding the status of family members and be traumatized. As a result, responders must consider how to appropriately manage concerned family while maintaining site security.
Scarce Supplies Equipment and supplies needed to manage the consequences of a terrorist event will be scarce. Sufficient pharmacological supplies may not be available.
Antidotes and other drugs used to treat WMD victims are usually not stockpiled in sufficient quantities for use in a mass casualty incident. Efforts to secure additional supplies will be an immediate need. Personnel involved in managing potential terrorist event must be aware of these concerns. Measures to address these issues must be incorporated into the Incident Action Plan and should be considered and assessed throughout the management of the WMD incident.
Table 178: Terrorist Event and Mass Casualty Incident Considerations Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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LAW ENFORCEMENT ROLE IN COMBATING TERRORISM AND MASS CASUALTY
INCIDENTS
The following are steps and efforts that various law enforcement agencies are taking to combat the activities of terrorists and mass casualty perpetrators:
1. On-going attention to known potential targets within the area
2. Identification of new potential targets within the area
3. Identification of suspicious persons, places, or things which may be related to potential terrorist or mass casualty incident activity
4. Recognition of potential surveillance and intelligence-gathering activities
5. Recognition of potential terrorist involvement in routine crimes (ID theft, shoplifting, credit card fraud, forgeries, etc.)
6. Organizing and informing community resources regarding anti- terrorism and the prevention of mass casualty incidents
7. Ability to respond safely and effectively to an incident including the use of a WMD
8. Identification of local terrorist groups or others that may be involved in mass casualty attacks
9. Monitoring illegal weapons traffic in the area or volatile materials purchases
10. Conducting Threat/Vulnerability assessments
11. Implementing counter-surveillance activities
12. Target hardening
13. Working with the public to promote awareness of suspicious behavior at potential target sites
VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
In Agoura Hills, the elderly and those speaking languages other than English are particularly vulnerable to terrorism and mass violence. The elderly may face increased risk due to slower response times and mobility issues, making it difficult to evacuate quickly and access safe areas.
Non-English speakers may struggle with receiving timely warnings and understanding safety measures, increasing their risk of harm.
Calabasas residents, including those on fixed incomes, transitory workers, homeless individuals, and elderly or disabled residents, face heightened risks during incidents of terrorism and mass violence. Fixed-income residents may lack the financial means to relocate or access secure locations. Transitory workers and homeless individuals often lack stable housing, making it difficult to find safe shelter. Elderly and disabled residents may experience significant difficulty in evacuating quickly and accessing safe areas, potentially leading to higher injury rates.
In Hidden Hills, the older population, households with disabilities, and those with limited transportation capabilities are at substantial risk from terrorism and mass violence. Older adults and those with disabilities may find it challenging to evacuate swiftly and reach safe areas. Limited transportation options can leave these individuals stranded in dangerous situations, increasing their vulnerability.
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Malibu's transitory workers, elderly population, lower-income residents, and homeless individuals are particularly vulnerable to terrorism and mass violence. Transitory workers and the homeless often lack stable housing, increasing their risk of exposure to dangerous situations. Elderly individuals may struggle with mobility issues that hinder quick evacuation and access to safe areas, while lower-income residents may lack the financial means to secure temporary housing or relocate during threats.
In Westlake Village, the elderly, disabled, homeless individuals, and residents speaking a language other than English face significant risks during incidents of terrorism and mass violence. The elderly and disabled may have difficulty evacuating and accessing safe areas due to mobility issues and health concerns. Homeless individuals are highly vulnerable due to lack of shelter and resources. Non-English speakers may miss critical warnings and safety instructions, increasing their risk during incidents of terrorism and mass violence.
REGIONAL RESPONSE, MITIGATION, AND PREVENTION ACTIVITIES The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is the lead law enforcement agency for the region regarding terrorist events and mass casualty incidents. Individual cities will be responsible for consequence management. Currently the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s station and individual cities implement projects and or programs to help prevent a terrorist or mass casualty situation or be prepared if one were to occur. The following are practices or projects that are currently active in the Region.
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Emergency Response Actions
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department acts as the lead agency for crisis management, perimeter security, access control, traffic/crowd control, evacuations, notifications, and safeguarding evidence. Crisis management activities may include:
Investigation, tracking, and maintaining scene integrity.
Coordinating coroner issues with the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Department.
Use of Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) or Rapid Deployment Force (RDF) units Assisting with damage assessment and fatalities management.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department is the lead agency for fire response, hazardous materials events, and medical/rescue operations. The County Fire Department provides support as necessary to the Sheriff for Crisis Management activities. Existing procedures, such as the Fire Department’s Hazardous Materials Response procedures and NBC Response Protocols are used as necessary.
The Fire Department assists with:
Fire and rescue operations
Emergency medical services coordination
Perimeter and access control
Evacuation operations
Notifications
Safeguarding evidence
Damage assessment
Fatalities management
Addressing environmental needs
Obtaining personnel with radiological training
Ensuring decontamination procedures (radiological and chemical) are in place Ensuring biological agents are contained
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Mitigation and Prevention
The following examples provide a summary of mitigation and prevention activities related to terrorism and mass casualty incidents in the Las Virgenes-Malibu Region.
Canine Unit
The Los Angeles County Sheriff maintains 5 specially trained canines to detect explosives as part of the Arson/Explosive Detail and one chemical/biological threat K-9 as part of the Hazardous Materials Detail.
Equipment and JRIC
In September 2011, Los Angeles County received an $8.9 million grant from the Department of Homeland Security. The funds were a part of a 2010 federal grant of $69.9 million to the Los Angeles-Long Beach Urban Area. The grant was intended to address the unique equipment, training and planning needs of large urban areas in managing terrorism threats.40 The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department received the bulk of the $8.9 million grant and will use $6.2 million for equipment, such as an aerial video downlink technology, mobile surveillance cameras, tactical robots, radiation detection devices and bomb suits.
Nearly 70 percent of the total Los Angeles-Long Beach Urban Area funds were spent on the region’s Joint Regional Intelligence Center (JRIC). The JRIC is staffed by federal, state and local intelligence analysts and investigators responsible for the 44,000-square-mile territory surrounding Los Angeles. The JRIC opened in 2006 and is the largest of approximately 40 facilities nationwide and is used to coordinate data from 200 agencies in seven counties.
Terrorism Early Warning Group
In 1996, the Los Angeles County Sheriff Department established the Terrorism Early Warning (TEW) Group.41 The purpose of the TEW Group is to act as an interdisciplinary group in which local, state, and federal agencies work together to share information and combine resources, and to enhance the ability to identify and respond to acts and threats of terrorism. This interagency approach allows for early response and enforcement by clearing the communication channels between agencies and creating an environment that facilitates information and intelligence sharing.
The result is an effective network that has the ability to identify information which might indicate impending terrorist activity. This group is a significant resource for identifying and assessing potential threats, making appropriate notifications and recommendations, and aiding in mission planning and the efficient allocation of resources.
40 http://ourweekly.com/los-angeles/sheriff%E2%80%99s-department-spend-89-million-anti-terror-equipment-training-and-intelligence 41 http://file.lacounty.gov/lasd/cms1_144939.pdf
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TERRORISM AND MASS CASUALTY INCIDENT MITIGATION STRATEGIES LVMCOG Mitigation Activities
The LVMCOG member cities continue to work with local law enforcement agencies such as the Los Angeles County Sheriff on planning efforts to prevent and/or mitigate the impact of terrorism and mass casualty incidents. Additionally, mitigation strategies that support multi-hazard events will also address terrorist response issues, e.g., increasing the effectiveness of communications and response. Finally, each city has active C.E.R.T. programs with volunteers trained to assist in disasters.
Agoura Hills
The City of Agoura Hills website provides emergency information for residents regarding different events. Further, the City web site provides Public Safety Resource links to essential information for a variety of situations, links to the Agoura Hills Ready-Know Your Zone, and the Go-To Evacuation Platform.
Calabasas
The City of Calabasas website provides numerous emergency preparedness information bulletins including an Emergency Preparedness Guide with information regarding Terrorism. Emergency warnings and information will be provided to the public in the event of a terrorist incident. This will be accomplished via the Calabasas website, CTV Channel-3, the City’s 1630 AM radio station.
Malibu
The City of Malibu maintains an ongoing Public Information Program that includes:
A monthly series on the City website that features a different theme each month. These are adapted from the monthly Emergency Survival Program bulletins on preparing for and responding to a variety of disasters including terrorism incidents.
A series of messages on the City’s cable TV channel urge viewers to take emergency response training, to write a family emergency plan, and to contact the Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for further information.
Ongoing meetings and presentations about emergency preparedness are made to the public at meetings of Homeowner’s Associations and Emergency Preparedness Fairs.
Emergency warnings and information will be provided to the public in the event of a terrorist incident. This will be accomplished via the City of Malibu website, Cable TV Channel-3, the City’s AM Radio Station (1620 AM), a telephone Hotline service (456-9982), a call center located at City’s Emergency Operations Center, and an email subscription service which notifies subscribers whenever emergency information is updated on the City website Westlake Village
The City of Westlake Village website provides numerous emergency preparedness information bulletins including the Los Angeles County Emergency Survival Guide with information regarding Terrorism. In addition, the City has an active C.E.R.T. program with volunteers trained to assist in disasters.
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SECTION 17. ANNEX A: RESOURCES
The following resources were used in the development and update of the Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. In addition to the resources listed, information sources included city documents such as General Plans, Master Plans, Comprehensive Financial Reports, studies, and reports.
Name Category Web Site Address or
Reference Description
2018 Defining Vulnerable
Communities in the
Context of Climate
Adaptation
State Government http://opr.ca.gov/planning/icarp/ Climate Change Program and Data
A History of Significant
Weather Events in
Southern California -
Organized by Weather
Type (Feb 2023)
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
www.weather.gov/media/sgx/docum
ents/weatherhistory.pdf
Flood and Landslide Data
Adapting to Rising Tides,
Bay Conservation and
Development Commission
(BCDC) and Metropolitan
Transportation
Commission/Association of
Bay Area Governments
(MTC/ABAG)
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
https://www.adaptingtorisingtides.or
g/wpcontent/uploads/2020/03/ARTBayAr
ea_Short_Report_Final_March2020_
ADA.pdf
Sea Level Rise Vulnerability
American Geosciences
Institute
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
https://www.americangeosciences.or
g/critical-issues/faq/how-much-dolandslides-cost-terms-monetarylosses Landslide Losses
Army Corps of Engineers Federal
Government
www.usace.army.mil Flood and Dam Information
Associated Press News Weber, Christopher (March 14,
2019). "Report: Power lines sparked
massive Southern California fire".
AP NEWS. Retrieved March 14,
2019
Power Outage
Association of State
Floodplain Managers
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
www.floods.org Flood Mitigation and
Planning Information
Building Seismic Safety
Council (BSSC)
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
www.bssconline.org Earthquake and Seismic code
Information
California Climate Change
Assessment
State Government https://www.climateassessment.ca.g
ov/state/overview/
Climate Change Data
California Coastal
Commission
Regulatory
Agency
https://www.coastal.ca.gov/climate/s
lr/
https://documents.coastal.ca.gov/ass
ets/climate/slr/vulnerability/13_Los
Angeles.pdf
Sea Level Rise Data
California Department of
Conservation
State Government https://cadoc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/
webappviewer/index.html?id=bc48a
d40e3504134a1fc8f3909659041
ArcGIS Landslide Map
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Name Category Web Site Address or
Reference Description
California Department of
Conservation: Southern
California Regional Office
State Government www.consrv.ca.gov Earthquake and Flood Information
California Department of
Transportation (Caltrans)
State Government www.dot.ca.gov Transportation and Traffic Information
California Department of
Water Resources (DWR)
State Government www.water.ca.gov Flood Information
California Division of
Forestry & Fire Protection
State Government www.fire.ca.gov Fire Codes, Landslide, Wildfire Mitigation and
Programs
California Division of
Mines and Geology (DMG)
State Government www.consrv.ca.gov Earthquake Information California Environmental
Protection Agency
State Government https://oehha.ca.gov/media/downloa
ds/climatechange/document/2022caindicatorsre
port.pdf
Climate Change Data
California Geological
Survey, Department of
Conservation
State Government www.consrv.ca.gov
https://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs
/tsunami/maps#counties
Earthquake Information
Tsunami Maps
California Governor’s
Office of Emergency
Services (Cal OES)
State Government www.oes.ca.gov State Hazard Mitigation Guidance
California in 2050: Some
Sizzling Predictions
State Government www.cpuc.ca.gov Temperature Rise Prediction for California
California Legislative
Analyst’s Office
State Government https://lao.ca.gov/reports/2020/4261/
sea-level-rise-081020.pdf
Sea Level Rise Data
California Nevada Climate
Applications Program
(CNAP)
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
https://scripps.ucsd.edu/programs/cn
ap/
Climate Change and Santa
Ana Wind Information and
Map
California Number of
Extreme Heat Days by
Year
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
http://cal-adapt.org/tools/extremeheat/
Temperature Rise Prediction
for California
California Public Utilities
Commission
Regulatory https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/industriesand-topics/electricalenergy/infrastructure/electricreliability/electric-system-reliabilityannual-reportsPower Outage Data California Resources
Agency
State Government www.resources.ca.gov Earthquake information California State
Controller’s Office
State Government www.sco.ca.gov/and_state_cafr.html City Comprehensive Financial Reports
California-Nevada Climate
Applications Program
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
https://wrcc.dri.edu/Climate/Tracker/
CA/index.html
Climate Change Data
Center for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC)
Federal
Government
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemicresources/planningpreparedness/global-planning508.html Pandemic Continuum
Center for the Blue
Economy, Middlebury
Institute of International
Studies at Monterey
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
https://www.middlebury.edu/institut
e/sites/www.middlebury.edu.institut
e/files/2018-
07/4.4.18.Final%20San%20Diego%
20Vulnerability%20Report.pdf
Sea Level Rise Economic
Vulnerability
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Name Category Web Site Address or
Reference Description
City of Agoura Hills Local
Government
www.ci.agoura-hills.ca.us Local Profile, Planning,
Hazard, Mitigation
Information, and General
Plan
City of Agoura Hills,
Commercial and
Residential Projects Second
Quarter 2018 Quarterly
Report
City of Agoura
Hills
www.ci.agourahills.ca.us/government/departments/
planning-communitydevelopment/developmentsummaries
Commercial and Residential
Development Projects, 2018
City of Calabasas Local
Government
www.ci.calabasas.ca.us Local Profile, Planning,
Hazard, Mitigation
Information, and General
Plan
City of Hidden Hills Local
Government
www.hiddenhillscity.org Local Profile, Planning,
Hazard, Mitigation
Information, and General
Plan
City of Malibu Local
Government
www.malibucity.org Local Profile, Planning,
Hazard, Mitigation
Information, and General
Plan
City of Westlake Village Local
Government
www.wlv.org Local Profile, Planning,
Hazard, Mitigation
Information, and General
Plan
Comprehensive Annual
Financial Report for the
City of Agoura Hills
City Data www.ci.agourahills.ca.us/government/departments/f inance/comprehensive-annualfinance-report
City Data (including
employer and revenue data)
Comprehensive Annual
Financial Report for the
City of Calabasas
City Data www.cityofcalabasas.com/pdf/docu
ments/finance/cafrs/cafr-2017.pdf
City Data (including
employer and revenue data)
Comprehensive Annual
Financial Report for the
City of Malibu
City Data www.malibucity.org/317/FinancialReportsCity Data (including employer and revenue data)
Comprehensive Annual
Financial Report for the
City of Westlake Village
City Data www.wlv.org/158/AdministrativeServices-Financial-ManageCity Data (including employer and revenue data)
Data Commons Federal
Government
https://datacommons.org City and Regional
Demographic data
Department of Homeland
Security
Federal
Government
www.dhs.gov Terrorism Response,
Preparedness, and Threats
ESRI Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
ArcGIS Hazard Mapping
Federal Bureau of
Investigation
Federal Law
Enforcement
www.fbi.gov Terrorism Response, Active
Shooter Incidents,
Preparedness, and Threats
Federal Emergency
Management Agency
(FEMA)
Federal
Government
www.fema.gov Federal Disaster Information,
Flood Information Rate Maps
(FIRM), and Landslide
Information
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Name Category Web Site Address or
Reference Description
FEMA 100-Year
Floodplain Map
Federal
Government
http://gis.bam.water.ca.gov/bam/ FEMA Effective 100-Year Floodplain Map for the
LVMCOG Region
FEMA National Flood
Hazard Layer (Official)
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
www.arcgis.com FIRM Data
Firewise Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
www.firewise.org Fire / Wildfire Mitigation and
Programs
Fresno Bee News
Organization
www.fresnobee.com History of Wildfires in
California
Global Health Institute
Duke
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
https://globalhealth.duke.edu/news/st
atistics-say-large-pandemics-aremore-likely-wethought#:~:text=It%20found%20the %20probability%20of,of%20experie
ncing%20one%20by%20now
Pandemic Likelihood
Google Maps Public Resource www.maps.google.com Maps and Satellite Images Indicators of Climate
Change in California,
Office of Environmental
Health Hazard Assessment
(OEHHA)
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
https://oehha.ca.gov Climate and Sea Level Rise
Data
Intellicast Public Resource www.intellicast.com Weather and Climate Data International Code
Council, Los Angele s Basin
Chapter
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
www.icclabc.org Building Code information
Las Virgenes Municipal
Water District
Utility www.lvmwd.com Water and Dam information
Los Angeles County Code
of Ordinances
Local and
Regional
Government
https://library.municode.com/ca/los_
angeles_county/codes/code_of_ordin
ances?nodeId=LOS_ANGELES_CO
_CODE
Building Codes, Permits, and
Grading
Los Angeles County
Department of Beaches and
Harbors
Local and
Regional
Government
http://file.lacounty.gov/dbh/cms1_14
5176.jpg
Zuma Beach Information
Los Angeles County Fire
Department
Local and
Regional
Government
www.lacofd.org Fire Codes and Wildfire
mitigation and programs
Los Angeles County Office
of Emergency Services
Local and
Regional
Government
www.lacoa.org Disaster and Mitigation
Information. Disaster
Management Areas.
Los Angeles County Office
of the Assessor
Local and
Regional
Government
www.assessor.lacounty.gov Property Tax Information
Los Angeles County Public
Health Department
Local and
Regional
Government
http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/med
ia/coronavirus/locations.htm
Pandemic Data
Los Angeles County Public
Works Department
Local and
Regional
Government
www.ladpw.org Earthquake and Debris
Removal Information
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Name Category Web Site Address or
Reference Description
Los Angeles Safety and
Enforcement Division,
Electric Safety and
Reliability Branch
Local and
Regional
Government
https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/-
/media/cpucwebsite/divisions/safety-andenforcement-division/investigationswildfires/sed-investigation-report--- woolsey-fire---redacted.pdf
Investigation Report of the
Woolsey Fire
Los Angeles Sheriff’s
Department
Local Law
Enforcement
www.sheriff.lacounty.gov Terrorism Response,
Preparedness, and Threats
Malibu Road Landslide
Assessment District Annual
Report
Private Contractor www.malibucity.org/DocumentCent
er/View/16867/Malibu-RoadAnnual-Report-2016-2017
Fugro, Annual Report July
2016 through June 2017
Malibu Road Landslide
Assessment District, June
2017
NASA / JPL-Caltech Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catal
og/PIA03445
Santa Ana Wind Information
and Map
National Center for
Biotechnology Information
(NCBI)
Federal
Government
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/a
rticles/PMC9175207/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/
NBK143061/
Pandemic Contributing
Factors and Phases
National Drought
Mitigation Center
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
University of Nebraska-Lincon Climate Change Data
National Environmental
Modeling and Analysis
Center (NEMAC)
University of North
Carolina, Ashville
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
https://climate-explorer.nemac.org Sea Level Rise Map
National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP)
Federal
Government
www.fema.gov/nfip
https://www.fema.gov/openfemadata-page/fima-nfip-redacted-claimsv2 https://nfipservices.floodsmart.gov/r
eports-flood-insurance-data
https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home
Flood Information, Maps,
and Flood Claim Status
National Integrated
Drought Information
System
Federal
Government
www.drought.gov/drought/states/cali
fornia
www.drought.gov/drought/california
-no-stranger-dry-conditions-drought2011-2017-was-exceptional California Drought
Information
National Interagency Fire
Center (NIFC)
Federal
Government
www.nifc.gov Fire Codes and Wildfire
Mitigation and Programs
National Oceanic and
Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA)
Federal
Government
www.noaa.gov
https://coast.noaa.gov/slr/#/layer/vulsoc/0/-
13212283.270492423/4033715.0625
395617/15/satellite/none/0.8/2050/in
terHigh/midAccretion
https://www.climate.gov/mapsdata/dataset/sea-level-rise-mapviewer Weather and Climate Data
Sea Level Rise Data
National Park Services
(NPS)
Federal
Government
https://www.nps.gov/samo/learn/ma
nagement/2018-woolsey-fire.htm
Woolsey Fire Burn Area
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Name Category Web Site Address or
Reference Description
National Resources
Conservation Service
(NRCS), US Department of
Agriculture
Federal
Government
www.nrcs.gov Flood Mitigation, Landslide,
and Watershed Projects
National Transportation
Safety Board (NTSB)
Federal
Government
www.ntsb.gov San Bruno Pipeline
Explosion Information
National Weather Service Federal
Government
www.weather.gov
www.weather.gov/media/sgx/docum
ents/weatherhistory.pdf
Weather and Climate Data
National Weather Service
Climate Prediction Center
Federal
Government
www.cpc.ncep.noaa.gov/products/ex
pert_assessment/sdo_summary.php
Drought Outlook Data and
Map
NOAA – National Centers
for Environmental
Information (NCEI)
Federal
Government
www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitori
ng/us-trends/tmax/jun
www.climate.gov/newsfeatures/understandingclimate/climate-change-globaltemperature-projections https://toolkit.climate.gov/
Climate Change Data
NOAA – National Climate
Data Center (NCDC)
Federal
Government
https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/IPS/lcd/l
cd.html?_page=0&state=CA&_targe
t1=Next+%3E
Climate Change Data
NOAA Office for Coastal
Management
Federal
Government
https://coast.noaa.gov/slr/#/layer/fld/
0/-
13215206.258759653/4033933.3778
58944/13/satellite/none/0.8/2050/int
erHigh/midAccretion
Climate Change Data
Office of the Attorney
General (OAG)
Federal
Government
https://oag.ca.gov/news/pressreleases/california-departmentjustice-closes-criminal-investigationwoolsey-fire Woolsey Fire Evacuation
Data
Office of the State Fire
Marshal (OSFM)
State Government www.osfm.fire.ca.gov Fire Codes and Wildfire Mitigation and Programs
Pipelines and Hazards
Materials Safety Division
Federal
Government
www.phmsa.dot.gov Pipeline Data
Robert D. Niehaus, Inc. The Economic
Impacts of the
Montecito
Mudslides
http://www.rdniehaus.com/rdn/wpcontent/uploads/2018/03/RDN_Mont ecito_Mudslides_Impacts-1.pdf
Montecito Mudslide Report
Sea Level Rise Map for
Malibu Coast
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
www.cal-adapt.org Climate and Sea Level Rise
Data
Southern California Area
Governments
Local and
Regional
Government
www.scag.ca.gov Principal Property Tax
Payers and Employers
Southern California
Association of
Governments (SCAG)
Local
Government
www.scag.ca.gov City Profiles, Data, and Maps
Southern California
Earthquake Center (SCEC)
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
www.scec.org Earthquake and Fault
Information
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Name Category Web Site Address or
Reference Description
Southern California Edison
Annual Electric Reliability
Report
Utility SCE Annual Electric Reliability
Report 2022
Power Outage Data
Southern California Edison
Public Safety Power
Shutoff Process
Utility www.sce.com/wps/wcm/connect/9ef
7f86a-ca79-41c8-b34fb0dd449baf39/PSPS_Timeline.pdf?
MOD=AJPERES
Electric Utility Emergency
Power Shutoff Process
Timeline
Southern California
Seismic Network
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
http://www.scsn.org Earthquake and Fault
Information
Terrorism Research Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
www.terrorism-research.com Terrorism Information
The National Drought
Mitigation Center
University of NebraskaLincoln
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/Curre
ntMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?
West
Drought Maps
The White House Federal
Government
https://www.whitehouse.gov/covidpl
an/#prepare
National COVID-19
Preparedness Plan
U.S. Census Bureau Federal
Government
www.census.gov
www.census.gov/quickfacts
https://www.census.gov/cgibin/geo/shapefiles/index.php City and Regional
Demographic Data
U.S. Census, American Fact
Finder
Federal
Government
https://factfinder.census.gov City and Regional
Demographic Data
U.S. Department of Health
& Human Services
Federal
Government
https://aspe.hhs.gov/povertyguidelines
Average U.S. Poverty Level
U.S. Department of the
Interior, Bureau of
Reclamation
Federal
Government
www.usbr.gov Flood Information
U.S. Fire Administration
(USFA) of the Federal
Emergency Management
Agency
Federal
Government
www.usfa.fema.gov Fire Codes and Wildfire
Mitigation and Programs
U.S. Geological Survey Federal
Government
www.usgs.gov
https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2013/1170/g
/pdf/ofr2013-1170g.pdf
https://www.usgs.gov/programs/land
slide-hazards/science/hazard-andrisk-assessments
Earthquake Information and
SAFRR Tsunami Scenario
Study (2013)
Landslide Data
U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS) Sea Level Rise
Presentation
Federal
Government
www.malibucity.org/DocumentCent
er/View/14656/Sea-Level-RiseFrom-Global-to-Local
Sea Level Rise Presentation
for the City of Malibu
U.S. Geological SurveyWoolsey Fire Federal
Government
https://landslides.usgs.gov/static/land
slidesrealtime/fires/20181108_woolsey/im
age.pdf
Woolsey Fire Map (2018)
U.S. State Department Federal
Government
www.state.gov/j/ct/list/c14151.htm Terrorism Information Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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Name Category Web Site Address or
Reference Description
USC Geospatial Institute Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
www.spatial.usc.edu Area and Hazard Mapping,
Loss Estimates, and HAZUS
USGS National Landslide
Information Center
Federal
Government
www.landslides.usgs/nlic Landslide Information
USGS Water Resources Federal
Government
www.water.usgs.gov Flood Information
Western Regional Climate
Center
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
https://wrcc.dri.edu/my/climate/track
er/CA
https://wrcc.dri.edu/Climate/comp_ta
bles.php
https://www.dri.edu/updatedcalifornia-climate-tracker-toolprovides-more-than-120-years-ofclimate-data/ Climate Data
Western States Seismic
Policy Council (WSSPC)
Research,
Educational, and
Standards
Organizations
www.wsspc.org Earthquake Information
World Health Organization
(WHO)
Research,
Education, and
Standards
Organizations
https://covid19.who.int/ Pandemic Data
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SECTION 18. ANNEX B: MEETING AGENDAS AND
ATTENDEES
The following pages provide agendas and attendee information for meetings involving hazard mitigation or the LVMCOG Hazard Mitigation Plan update.
DISASTER MANAGEMENT AREA B MEETING
BOARD ONLY MEETING
MINUTES MAY 25, 2023 9:00 AM TO 10:30 AM CITY OF WESTLAKE VILLAGE MEETING CALLED BY Standing Area B Meeting
TYPE OF MEETING Board Meeting Only
CHAIR/FACILITATOR
Roger Willcox, City of Santa Clarita
TREASURER/FISCAL
AGENT REP Debbie Larson, City of Calabasas
NOTE TAKER Deb Pedrazzoli
ATTENDEES
BOARD MEMBERS (Voting) PRESENT:
Caleb Mott – City of Westlake Village, Administrative Analyst (Alternate) Chantelle Limon – City of Hidden Hills, Administrative Analyst Debbie Larson - City of Calabasas, Public Safety Coordinator John (JT) Treichler - City of Agoura Hills, Administrative Analyst Roger Willcox – City of Santa Clarita, Emergency Services Analyst Sarah Flores – City of Malibu, Emergency Services Coordinator
BOARD ALTERNATES (Non-Voting) PRESENT:
Mike Dyer – City of Calabasas, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Manager (Alternate) DMAC PRESENT:
Deb Pedrazzoli – Area B Disaster Management Area Coordinator (DMAC) AGENCY PARTNERS or other MEMBER CITY STAFF PRESENT: N/A GUESTS PRESENT:
N/A
BOARD MEMBERS NOT PRESENT:
Arpen (Amy) Shadkamyan – City of Palmdale, Emergency Services Administrator Andrew Noga - City of Lancaster, Manager of Code Enforce and Emergency Services (Alternate) Ashu Palta – LACo Office of Emergency Management (OEM), Program Manager John Felkins – City of Lancaster, EOC Coordinator III
Kerry Kallman – City of Hidden Hills, City Manager (Alternate) Leslie Luke – LACo Office of Emergency Management (OEM) Deputy Director (Alternate) Louis Celaya - City of Agoura Hills, Deputy City Manager (Alternate) Matthew Harris – City of Palmdale, Buyer (Alternate)
Mike Woodard – City of Hidden Hills, Emergency Services Coordinator (Alternate) Philippe Eskandar – City of Westlake Village, Deputy City Manager Susan Duenas – City of Malibu, Public Safety Director (Alternate) TBD – City of Santa Clarita (Alternate)
Indicates - Remote Board Member - Participation via On-Line Conference Capability Indicates – Remote Board Member – Participation via Telephone Conference Call Indicates – Remote Board Member – Participation via E-Mail
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Agenda topics
INTRODUCTIONS DEB P
DISCUSSION The Board Meeting was called to order at 9:12am.
CONCLUSIONS
The meeting had been rescheduled to today May 25th due to training conflicts on the 18th. First inperson board meeting since March 2020 due to Covid pandemic.
ACTION ITEMS PERSON RESPONSIBLE DEADLINE
N/A N/A N/A
CONSENT CALENDAR DEB P
DISCUSSION
Minutes:
Approval of the April 20, 2023 meeting minutes.
Bank Statements:
Acceptance of the Apr reconciled Bank of America-0100 Checking Account Statements.
Acceptance of the Apr reconciled Wells Fargo-5927 Savings Account Statements.
Expenditure Report:
Approval of the Expenditure Report. Copies of expenditures were submitted for the file. o DMAC Invoice and Activity Log for Apr.
FY2022-2023 Financial Statement:
Approval of the FY 2022-2023 Financial Statement as of 5-25-23.
EMPG FY22 Grant:
Acceptance of the EMPG FY22 Monthly Budget Report as of 5-25-23.
EMPG FY22 Monthly Cities EM Activities Report not included. Needs reworking due to the required Pay Rate report for match.
Meeting Attendance:
Acceptance of meeting roster from Apr 20, 2023 meeting.
DRAFT 2023-2024 Budget (approval deadline Jun):
Acceptance of Draft-3 for review purposes only.
Guzman and Gray CPAs Year Ending Jun 2023 Audit:
Approval of Engagement letter.
CONCLUSIONS Motion to approve the Consent Calendar items was made by Chantelle L., seconded by JT., and unanimously approved.
ACTION ITEMS PERSON RESPONSIBLE DEADLINE
N/A N/A N/A
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BOARD OPEN ITEMS BOARD
DISCUSSION
Expenditure Report – Check(s) execution:
Distribution of one (1) check: DMAC; Debbie L. will mail.
Treasurer check reserves (two checks) single signature check signing: no further action. Treasurer Bank Signature Card Review: Debbie L. to review listed signatures for possible update. Minutes Signing by Board Chair: Roger W. signed minutes during meeting.
Annual Area B Financial Audit Year Ending 6-2023 (Guzman & Gray):
Engagement letter approved in today’s consent calendar items.
Debbie L. executed letter for EMPG FY23 expense.
2023-24 DRAFT Budget (approval due in Jun):
Draft-3 for review only was in today’s consent calendar items per the By-Laws.
EMPG FY17, FY18, FY19 County Audit of Areas 3-24-22:
EMPG FY17-19 Exit Conference Call with Auditor – completed 4-18-23. o Monthly Timesheets and Pay Rate Reports are required for the match. o Area B corrective action is to begin collecting payroll docs July 2022.
Awaiting final reports.
EMPG FY22 (7-1-22 to 6-30-24; Area performance ends March 1, 2024) Allocation – received 10-27-22 $129,599.
Application/Workbook – submitted 11-29-22.
o Initial - allocation to Project A – Operating Expenses until modified.
Sub-Recipient Agreement – received 4-6-23; Area B executed 4-17-23 o Awaiting county council execution.
Performance Reports – Q1-3 submitted. Q4 due Jul.
Projects –
o Project A – Operating Expenses from Jul 2022 through Jun 2023. o Project TBD? – not yet determined; estimated amount remaining $49K.
CERT Instructor Training (JT)
Action Item: Deb P. to inquire who offers the T2.
CSTI Outreach Instructor (EMIC) Cert/Re-Cert Training (DMAC) Deb P. reported there is an opportunity to partner with the other DMAs on this project. The four-day course is approximately $40K for 25 seats, which is $1,600.00 per person.
o Action Item: Deb P. awaiting registration info.
Previously suggested
LA RICS Subscriptions (Susan D.)
o Deb P. reported that as of 4-18-23 LA RICS is not currently set up to offer subscriptions – maybe Jul 203. Could be a good project for EMPG FY23.
Hand-held Radios (Philippe E.)
o No further information.
Owl Labs WFA products (Area D)
Studio Spectrum Teleconferencing carts approx. $3,800 (Area E) SEMS Exec Mgmt. Course includes ICS 402 approx. $12,250 (Debbie L.)
Emergency Management Concepts approx. $49,000 (DMAC)
Match – starts 7-1-22 (HSGA recommends 15-20% overage). o Status - refer to Cities EM Activity Monthly Report to review status. o Action Item: Cities to provide monthly Pay Rate report starting from July 2022 through present and each month thereafter to be eligible for match.
Reimbursement – Q1-3 on hold pending eligible dollar-for-dollar match.
Equipment:
Area B 2022 Equip Audit – Federal/State/County 2-year requirement. o Area B/City Ledgers dated/sent 9-7-22 supersedes any previously sent o Self-certifying 2-year audit due back from cities by 10-12-22. Include Supply Inventory Sheets for consumable items (ex. PPE).
Completed: AH, Cal, Lan
Incomplete: HH, Mal; please contact Deb P. for details.
Missing: Palm, SC, WLV
County Audit date TBD.
EMPG FY20 GZ – distribution of Area B Asset Tags - TBD
CONCLUSIONS N/A
ACTION ITEMS PERSON RESPONSIBLE DEADLIN
E
N/A N/A N/A
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May 25, 2023 Area B continued ALL
GENERAL MEETING
DISCUSSION
Welcome and Introductions:
N/A. Board meeting only.
Presenter/Speaker:
N/A
Topic of Interest:
Next General Meeting’s Presenter/Speaker/Topic of Interest:
N/A
DMAC Report:
Reminder to return LACo DHS Expired/Expiring Prepositioned Antibiotics by deadlines.
List of upcoming training/exercise dates in agenda.
List of Cities with their Form 130 status – awaiting response from Cal OES DLAN Interest to date – Lancaster, Malibu, Palmdale, Santa Clarita
CONCLUSIONS N/A
ACTION ITEMS PERSON RESPONSIBLE DEADLINE
Deb P. to reinstate Area B Quarterly LHMP Meetings starting Sep 2023. Deb P. Sep 2023
ROUNDTABLE ALL
JT., City of Agoura Hills reported
Planning – Pre-positioned antibiotics return to DHS/EMS Jun 1 Planning – Multi-Jurisdictional (COG) LHMP update
Planning – CERT training by LACo FD starting in July for 7 weeks Preparedness – Kick Off of Home Hardening Enhanced Program Debbie L., City of Calabasas reported
Planning – COOP
Planning – EOC TTX in Jun
Preparedness – conducted/completed EOC Ops/Logs training Preparedness – attended Alert/Warning training
Mitigation – Santa Monica Mountains grant for dead tree removal Recovery – Jan Storms
Chantelle L., City of Hidden Hills reported
Planning – goats brush clearance for Jul
Planning – First Responder Appreciation Day for Jul
Preparedness – conducted/hosted CERT training program
Preparedness – conducted CERT team meeting with CPR/First Aid drill/exercise Preparedness – conducted CERT team radio training
Sarah F., City of Malibu
Planning – Public Safety Expo for Jun 10
Planning – EOP update
Roger W., City of Santa Clarita
Planning – EOC position job aids
Planning – DLAN as a possible EOC incident management software solution Planning – SLACK as an instant messaging platform for leadership team Planning – awarded LHMP grant; Haggarty Consulting Group Planning – comprehensive facility maps for approximately 20 sites Planning – CERT training program starting Jun7 for 26 attendees Caleb M., City of Westlake Village reported
Planning – EOP update
Planning – CERT team meeting on Jun21
Planning – radio equipment inventory
Planning – radios new battery procurement
CONCLUSIONS Motion to adjourn was made by Caleb M., seconded by Debbie L., and unanimously approved.
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May 25, 2023 Area B continued
ACTION ITEMS PERSON RESPONSIBLE DEADLINE
N/A N/A N/A
OBSERVERS N/A
RESOURCE
PERSONS N/A
SPECIAL NOTES
11:15 AM MEETING ADJOURNED.
Per Area B Meeting Schedule,
o Next Area B Meeting is a Board Only Go-To Meeting on June 15, 2023 9am-10:30am. o A quorum needs to be confirmed.
o Board Members please notify Deb P. as soon as possible regarding availability. o No Area B Meetings are scheduled in July and August.
o Next “In-person” Board Meeting followed by a City/Partner Agency Meeting – Thurs, Sep 21, 2023 City of Malibu City Hall
Board Meeting 9am to 10:15am.
City/Partner Agency Meeting 10:15am to 12noon.
Next Area B CWIRS Drill – Thursday, June 22, 2023, at 8:45am on Cities/CITY-ALL talk-group.
Due to programming, City-All is only available on P5100 Hand-held.
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LVMCOG HAZARD MITIGATION PLANNING GROUP MEETINGS
Project Kick-off Meeting
Date: June 1, 2023 3:15PM to 4:00 PM
Location: Zoom Meeting
SIGN IN
Name City / Agency
JT Manwell City of Agoura Hills
John Treichler City of Agoura Hills
Michael Dyer City of Calabasas
Debbie Larson City of Calabasas
Michael Woodard City of Hidden Hills
Susan Duenas City of Malibu
Caleb Mott City of Westlake Village
Terry Dipple LVMCOG
Optional
Name City / Agency
Louis Celaya City of Agoura Hills
Nate Hamburger City of Agoura Hills
Kindon Meik City of Calabasas
Kerry Kallman City of Hidden Hills
Steven McClary City of Malibu
Rob de Geus City of Westlake Village
MLC Team:
Name Email
Bob Takemura [email protected]
Shervin Ebrahimi [email protected]
Jagger Raymondo [email protected]
Odalis Tannehill [email protected]
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MEETING AGENDA
Purpose: The purpose of this project is to update the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) as per the 5-year requirement to maintain grant funding eligibility and comply with federal regulatory requirements:
Stafford Act
Disaster Mitigation Act
Disaster Recovery Reform Act
To promote:
Repetitive Loss Reduction
Protection of Life and Safety
Coordination of Mitigation Activities with Other Jurisdictions / Agencies Increased Public Awareness
Improved Emergency Management (through mitigation efforts, planning, and coordination) Topic Time
Project Purpose 5 minutes
MLC Introduction and Project Team 5 minutes
Key Components of the HMP
Approach
HMP Update Process
Project Timeline
Focus on Mitigation
30 minutes
Q&A 5 minutes
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Planning Group Meeting I
Date: July 13, 2023 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: Zoom Meeting
SIGN IN
Name City / Agency
John Treichler City of Agoura Hills
Louis Celaya City of Agoura Hills
Michael Dyer City of Calabasas
Debbie Larson City of Calabasas
Kerry Kallman City of Hidden Hills
Michael Woodard City of Hidden Hills
Susan Duenas City of Malibu
Caleb Mott City of Westlake Village
Terry Dipple LVMCOG
MLC Team:
Name Email
Bob Takemura [email protected]
Shervin Ebrahimi [email protected]
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MEETING AGENDA
Purpose: The purpose of the meeting is to provide an update on the current status of the project, discuss additional information required as well as obtain input and information from the Planning Group. opic Time
Project Status
Community Profile Updates
General Plan Reviews for Cal-OES Required HMP References Risk Assessment Updates
Mitigation Project Updates
Hazard Survey
25 minutes
Discussion
Strategies for New Mitigation Projects, including:
o Climate Change (e.g., drought, flood, power outage, high heat, wildfire, etc.)
o Socially Underserved Communities
o Pandemic
o Mass Casualty Events
Key City Contacts to Support the HMP Update and Mitigation Projects
o Planning Departments
o Building and Safety
o Community Development
o IT and GIS Mapping
o Finance
30 minutes
Recap 5 minutes
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Planning Group Meeting II
Date: September 14, 2023 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Location: Zoom Meeting
SIGN IN
Name City / Agency
John Treichler City of Agoura Hills
Louis Celaya City of Agoura Hills
Michael Dyer City of Calabasas
Debbie Larson City of Calabasas
City of Hidden Hills City of Hidden Hills
Kerry Kallman City of Hidden Hills
Susan Duenas City of Malibu
Caleb Mott City of Westlake Village
Terry Dipple LVMCOG
MLC Team:
Name Email
Bob Takemura [email protected]
Shervin Ebrahimi [email protected]
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MEETING AGENDA
Purpose: To review progress on the HMP update including the HMP Survey, Community Profiles, and Previous Mitigation Projects. Also need to start planning for the public meeting tentatively scheduled for October.
opic Time
Project Status and Discussion
Hazard Survey
o Number of Responses
o Survey Results
Community Profile Updates
o Updates and Revisions
Risk Assessment Updates
o Completed Drafts
Climate Change
Energy Disruption
Landslide / Debris Flow (e.g., Montecito)
o 80% - 90% Complete
Flood / Tsunami and Severe Winter Storm
Severe Wind
Terrorism / Mass Casualty Events
o In Progress
Pandemic
Earthquake
Wildfire
Mitigation Project Updates
o Previous Projects – Feedback Received
o New Projects (including Benefit / Cost Analyses)
55 minutes
Recap 5 minutes
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SECTION 19. ANNEX C: COMMUNITY DISASTER
PREPAREDNESS AND RISK SURVEY
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND RISK SURVEY RESULTS
A Disaster Preparedness Risk Survey was used to encourage public participation in mitigation planning and provide input into the Hazard Mitigation Planning process. The survey included questions regarding perceived risks, actual losses, and mitigation activities.
The survey also provided a forum for the public to provide their input on future planning efforts and enables emergency management personnel to better focus their mitigation efforts. The following tables provide the survey results. Surveys were made available online via each city’s website and social media platforms.
The data gathered was used to help local officials better plan for disasters as well as communicate with citizens and educate residents on mitigation steps to reduce the risk of loss. The survey was administered and maintained by MLC and Associates. A total of 116 completed surveys were received. The results of the survey are provided below. In some cases, comments were summarized, consolidated, and edited for clarity.
1. I am responding to this survey based on the following city:
Value Count Percent
Agoura Hills 23 20.2%
Calabasas 44 38.6%
Hidden Hills 1 0.9%
Malibu 21 18.4%
Westlake Village 25 21.9%
Agoura Hills
20%
Calabasas
39%
Hidden Hills
1%
Malibu
18%
Westlake Village
22%
I am responding to this survey based on the following city:
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2. I live in another city and commute to the selected city above:
Value Count Percent
Yes 14 12.6%
No 97 87.4%
3. Please select your age range:
Value Count Percent
15 to 24 years old 2 1.7%
25 to 34 years old 5 4.3%
35 to 44 years old 10 8.6%
45 to 54 years old 30 25.9%
55 to 64 years old 26 22.4%
65 years and over 43 37.1%
Yes
13%
No
87%
I live in another city and commute to the selected
city above:
15 to 24 years old
2%
25 to 34 years old
4%
35 to 44 years old
9%
45 to 54 years old
26%
55 to 64 years old
22%
65 years and over
37%
Please select your age range:
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4. What transportation would you use during an emergency? Value Count Percent
Own vehicle 111 95.7%
Carpool with family/friend 3 2.6%
Public transportation 2 1.7%
Facility provided transportation 0 0.0%
5. I feel that I am prepared for a disaster:
Value Count Percent
Strongly disagree 4 3.5%
Disagree 14 12.2%
Neutral 40 34.8%
Agree 55 47.8%
Strongly agree 2 1.7%
Own vehicle
96%
Carpool with
family/friend
2%
Public
transportation
2%
Facility provided
transportation
0%
What transportation would you use during an emergency?
Strongly disagree
3%
Disagree
12%
Neutral
35%
Agree
48%
Strongly agree
2%
I feel that I am prepared for a disaster:
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6. During the past 5 years, in the city you currently reside in, have you or someone in your household directly experienced a natural disaster? (This could be an earthquake, wildfire, flood, or other type of natural disaster)
Value Count Percent
Yes 97 84.3%
No 18 15.7%
7. In case of emergencies, I maintain and store for my household (myself and my family):
Value Count Percent
At least a 3-day supply of water (minimum 1 gallon per person per day) 75 64.7% At least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food (with manual can opener) 83 71.6% A first aid kit 96 82.8%
Prescription medications and/or other needed medical supplies 89 76.7% A flashlight with extra batteries 101 87.1%
Other 24 20.7%
Yes
84%
No
16%
During the past 5 years, in the city you currently reside in, have you or someone in your household directly experienced a natural disaster? (This could be an earthquake, wildfire, flood, or other type of natural disaster)
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Other emergency items include:
Bins with Emergency Equipment
Batteries
Blankets
Candles
Camping gear
Clothes
Fire hose
Generator (various sizes)
Grab and Go Bag
Items that don't use electricity or gas that
help with food prep and water cleanliness
Liquid Supplies (other than water)
List of Items to Grab
Pet Supplies
Portable Charger
Portable Stove
Pool Pump
Radio (solar or crank)
Shelter-in-Place Kit (based on CERT class)
Whistle
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8. I have a family emergency plan that includes:
Value Count Percent
A pre-designated meeting location 31 27.2%
An out of state contact 50 43.9%
An understanding of my children's school emergency plans 12 10.5% Registration at my children's schools so that someone in my household is authorized to pick them up in an emergency / an understanding of my children’s school emergency plans 20 17.5%
Training so that everyone in my household understands what to do in the event of a disaster such as fire or earthquake 39 34.2%
I don't have a family emergency plan 40 35.1%
Other 10 8.8%
Other emergency plans include:
Extinguishing home during a fire
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9. Examples of actions that I have taken to reduce the impact of disasters on my home include:
Value Count Percent
Brush clearance 67 69.8%
Roof replacement from wood shake to fire resistant materials 40 41.7% Automatic gas shut off valve 36 37.5%
Structural reinforcement 17 17.7%
Foundation reinforcement 13 13.5%
Chimney reinforcement 13 13.5%
Secured furniture, bookshelves, pictures, home computers, televisions, etc. to prevent them from falling in an earthquake. 46 47.9% Other 13 13.5%
Other home mitigation examples include:
Ember resistant vents
Ember screens
Extra water hoses
Trimmed trees
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10. How concerned are you about the following natural disasters (and other events) affecting your city?
Value Very
Concerned
Somewhat
Concerned
Neutral Not Very
Concerned
Not
Concerned
Drought 65 34 5 8 1
Earthquake 62 43 7 3 1
Flood 5 31 23 32 18
Landslide/Debris Flow 14 32 29 26 8
Wildfire 96 17 1 0 1
Windstorm 13 39 30 17 10
Sever Winter Storm 7 34 23 19 25
Extreme Heat 47 46 10 4 4
Extended Power Outage 67 33 11 3 2
Climate Change 65 29 10 2 5
Hazardous Material Release 24 26 31 20 8
Coastal Erosion 14 22 26 20 26
Terrorism / Mass Casualty
(including active shooter events) 32 45 22 6 9
Pandemic 26 43 20 16 7
Cybersecurity 39 44 16 8 5
0 20
40 60
80 100
120
How concerned are you about the following natural disasters (and other Very Concerned
Somewhat Concerned
Neutral
Not Very Concerned
Not Concerned
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11. How concerned are you about a Tsunami affecting Malibu? Value Very
Concerned
Somewhat
Concerned
Neutral Not Very
Concerned
Not
Concerned
Tsunami 2 5 5 5 3
12. I have the following types of insurance: (check all that apply) Value Count Percent
Home Owners Insurance - including Fire Coverage 106 93.0% Flood Insurance 16 14.0%
Earthquake Insurance 72 63.2%
Other 10 8.8%
Other types of insurance include:
HOA Insurance Coverage
Renters Insurance
State Insurance
Umbrella Policy Insurance
0 1
2 3
4 5
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13. What do you see as vulnerable in your community?
Value Very
Vulnerable
Somewhat
Vulnerable
Neutral Not Very
Vulnerable
Not
Vulnerable
Human (life and/or injuries) 49 44 8 8 2
Economic (businesses, jobs, etc.) 32 43 17 11 2
Infrastructure (hospitals, fire /
police stations, bridges,
freeways/highways, utilities,
schools, etc.) 35 52 12 3 2
Cultural / Historic (libraries,
museums, fairgrounds, etc.) 16 31 33 16 7
Environmental (forests,
rangeland, waterways, etc.) 53 31 18 4 3
Governance (maintaining order
and/or providing public amenities
and services) 34 41 19 12 5
0 10
20 30
40 50
60 Human (life and/or
injuries)
Economic (businesses,
jobs, etc.)
Infrastructure
freeways/highways,
Cultural / Historic
(libraries, museums,
fairgrounds, etc.)
Environmental (forests,
rangeland, waterways,
etc.)
Governance
(maintaining order
and/or providing public
What do you see as vulnerable in your community?
Very Vulnerable Somewhat Vulnerable Neutral Not Very Vulnerable Not Vulnerable Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
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14. The greatest obstacles I face in preparing for a disaster are:
Value Count Percent
Lack of funds / High costs 32 31.4%
Lack of knowledge / A need for more information on what to do 35 34.3% Lack of time 37 36.3%
Lack of motivation or interest 15 15.7%
A need for additional community provided resources such as (Emergency Shelter, Improved Emergency Notification Capabilities, Evacuation Plan) 55 55.9% Other 20 19.6%
Other obstacles include:
Being a renter, I cannot damage walls by
securing furniture
Blocked evacuation routes
Community provided power source for
MBC power outages
Emergency shelter
Evacuation plan
It's not that I'm not motivated or
interested… it's that it's overwhelming so
it's just not something I am 100% up on.
Lack of interest by local elected officials
Lack of roads to get out of our community
Limited home space
Panic caused by fire evacuation and
obligation to save properties from fire
Pet inclusive locations for shelter and
housing
Physical limitations
Procrastination
Retaining the survivor mentality
Other resources needed include:
CERT class was hugely helpful, and should
be better advertised
City of Malibu needs to provide more upto-the-minute notification of natural disasters (as well as car-related accidents)
Enforcement of removal of target trees
from landscape in high fire areas by LAFD
Most concerned that the community has the
day 5+ resources
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15. List other significant hazards or events that you are concerned about. Note: Responses were edited and summarized to consolidate similar comments.
Air Quality
All the gases and toxic fumes coming from synthetic lawns! Landfill fine particulate matter/off gassing/etc., for air quality and children's development Corruption
Corruption compromising the emergency responders
Communication
Breakdowns in emergency communications
Lack of cell service in our neighborhood
Crime
Crime in Calabasas. I have lived here for 40 years, and the world changed a lot.
Crime unchecked by laws and DA
Domestic violence extremism
Escalation of unchecked crime and immigration of tax base out of the area / California Home invasion
Debris
I also feel that too much debris on Kanan needs to be trimmed now as well as on Electric poles need to be removed. It's just so frustrating.
Evacuation
Can't get out of the area in case of a fire
Evacuation routes in a disaster
Evacuation - clear streets and paths are needed with no restriction by reduction in lanes for traffic calming in Westlake Village. Just look at Woolsey Fire, Paradise and Lahaina and the deaths to people evacuating. Understanding that in addition to the fact that nonresidents will use our streets for evacuation as well as us and we need clear paths to evacuate.
Panic caused by fire evacuations. There are many exists on Fountainwood and Morrison ranch.
Fire
Another fire like Woolsey
Concerned that those living near me don't do their fire clearance and officials don't hold them accountable for the safety of the community.
Fire evacuation
Lack of fire hydrant access to our location in our community Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
2024 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
Version 1.1 Page 19-13
Revision Date: 06/13/24
MLC & Associates
2024 LVMCOG MJHMP
Home Insurance
A lack of organization or a strategy for ensuring adequate homeowners insurance including fire. This needs to be a priority.
Inability to secure adequate fire insurance
Homelessness
Homeless issues involving safety and sanitation
The hazards that concern me are allowing the homeless and campers to live on the side of road on Kanan near Ladyface Mountain. I found it very challenging to deal with Lost Hills Sheriff who didn't want to cooperate making it a political issue and deferring to other agencies such as the Rangers or Highway Patrol. I kept saying, we do not need another Woolsey fire. BTW, I live in Agoura Hills in the unincorporated area of LA County. We should be included as part of this survey for the future. We are just as concerned as your neighbors. I live in Malibu View Estates at the top of Kanan south.
Infrastructure
Infrastructure in place to allow timely rebuild
Structural collapse of retaining wall due to a natural or even a man-made disaster Overpopulation
Growing & overpopulation of areas that don't have ample escape routes Senior population
Our communities have senior citizens who live alone who should be accounted for ahead of any disaster so that help can be on the lookout to assist in case of an emergency. LA county agencies and city agencies should work together with all hands on deck? Water Supply
Loss of municipal water supply/long term
Water supply reduction
Weather
Carrington event
Severe thunderstorms causing major leaks
Other
Financial meltdown
Per Woolsey Fire after action report, Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters will not be available to assist us in initial stages of the incident. We further need a Warning System other than by cell or e mail. What about AM radio? What if we lose power and battery backups are depleted? How does City manage incident if City Hall is evacuated? More preparedness on the part of our City is needed.
Poisoned animals in the food chain due to use of non organic chemicals! Political Instability
Secondary disaster due to lack of preparedness
Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
2024 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
Version 1.1 Page 19-14
Revision Date: 06/13/24
MLC & Associates
2024 LVMCOG MJHMP
16. What actions can local government take to help you become better prepared for disasters? Note: Responses were edited and summarized to consolidate similar comments.
Communication
24-hour prompt notifications of natural disasters, car accidents, and street closures Better and more coordinated communication and plans
Better communication. Improved access to public officials. Improved social media and television alerts.
Better outreach and communication with all residents in every part of the city. The most vulnerable in Calabasas are on the west side and no outreach here at all.
Clear idea where emergency shelters would be
Communication means that are effective during power and internet outages Coordinated efforts between city and county; communication on who has the most reliable information and resources.
Find ways to get more people signed up for mass notification systems for their respective local jurisdiction.
Get us the most recent information
Hold meetings for residents to attend showing us how to get prepared Improved Web GIS Apps that could be used in a cellular network in an emergency, similar to VC Emergency in Ventura County.
Learn how to receive communication when power is unavailable Make sure we get as much advance notice as possible
More clarity from Cal Fire and LACOFD about brush clearance rules, especially Zone 0 Provide clarity on the day 5 plan and how we will have medical services here Provide more information during and after an event
Providing evacuation and shelter information when phone service is disrupted Send out more info on the subjects!
Community Engagement and Support
Help senior citizens and include both unincorporated areas of LA county as well as city government in the plans. It would be much more cohesive.
Keep public awareness up front
Evacuation and Shelter
Appropriate evacuation plan
Earlier requirement for mandatory evacuations
Evacuation plans, brush removal, more streamlined services, water access Have a designated public shelter in open air
More escape routes during a disaster
Well coordinated evacuation plans that are executed earlier in an emergency. Too often left until last minute.
Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
2024 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
Version 1.1 Page 19-15
Revision Date: 06/13/24
MLC & Associates
2024 LVMCOG MJHMP
Infrastructure
Add more infrastructure to relieve the traffic during an event Focus on our community infrastructure
Invest in the infrastructure. Agoura Hills takes very little care of everything having to do with the building and walls. Walls will come down during an earthquake.
Resources and Supplies
Assist with power generation- That's a BIG issue!
Community supplies and shelter
Continuously publish lists of what to do and items to keep on hand. Don't make us go to a different source to find that.
Easily accessible resources for the public
Give each home a check list and provide online education on how to obtain items cost effectively
Help with understanding their disaster plan.
Information on where our evacuation plans are
Offer resource lists (or magnets) for home
Pass out check-lists of what should be done in our homes prior to a disaster to ensure more safety during a disaster
Provide some supplies to people who are financially insecure, and also provide handyman services for tasks such as securing furniture for those who cannot do it themselves and cannot afford to have someone else do it. Maybe do an outreach by neighborhood.
Repeated Community rollout of Emergency plans and guidelines.
Sell packages for emergencies at a reasonable price
Send out an information pamphlet with important tips and info We have just been told by our homeowner insurance (Allstate) that we must box our eaves or they will not renew our policy. It would be great if Calabasas could provide helpful info about getting this work done (for example trusted local contractors; if permits are needed, expected costs). Also if there are things that the community is doing to earn a Firewise or shelter in place designation. The ability to get homeowner insurance is at a crisis. With the resources of Calabasas could more be done to advocate and educate on this topic? I appreciate the fire and emergency education already in place but it might be time to take it up a notch.
Safety Measures
Actually implement the supposed preparedness. Could hire agencies that can assist with this. Help residents and don’t forget about them in the aftermath.
Curtail building of high density developments along Las Virgenes Rd Get a group fire insurance policy for city residents to opt into that's better than the California FAIR Plan or offers discounts
Have a realistic plan and help people. We were left alone and on our own in last fire. City, police and government failed us.
Help identify senior citizen residents by giving flags to place outside their homes if needed Improve cell service in our neighborhood
Require resilient materials for building and enforce target species removal from yards Las Virgenes-Malibu Council of Governments
2024 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
Version 1.1 Page 19-16
Revision Date: 06/13/24
MLC & Associates
2024 LVMCOG MJHMP
Training and Education
CERT classes (i.e., First Aid, rescue from structures, emergency food supplies) CERT/Disaster training should include formation and ongoing training of neighborhood emergency teams based on location of residence. Portland, OR, is a great example to follow in this area.