could sustain loss of life and property from this natural hazard. Initial mapping efforts have been conducted by the USGS to determine those areas in the City that have conditions conducive to landslides. Map 5-1 displays relative susceptibility to landslides, as well as locations where landslides may be triggered by earthquake (this latter information is also mapped in Map 4-1 Seismic Hazards ). This figure also includes the hillside area addressed in the City's Zoning Ordinance, which is further discussed in Section 11.2.2 Existing Landslide Mitigation Activities.
The landslide maps produced by the USGS are an invaluable asset to the City in i dentifying hazards and preparing mitigation measures. However, these maps were not prepared specifically for Pomona and may not provide the level of detail needed to identify all potentially hazardous areas. Additionally, changing local conditions associat ed with development may increase the potential for landslides to occur, and this dynamic nature of the hazard is not reflected in these published maps.
An awareness of the conditions that give rise to landslides will assist City officials in making prudent decisions about mitigation measures and regulating future development in areas at-risk to landslides. In general, locations at risk from landslides or debris flows include areas with one or more of the following conditions:
• On or close to steep hills;
• Steep road-cuts or excavations;
• Existing landslides or places of known historic landslides (such sites often have tilted powerlines, trees tilted in various directions, cracks in the ground, and irregular- surfaced ground);
• Steep areas where surface runoff is channeled, such as below culverts, V -shaped valleys, canyon bottoms, and steep stream channels;
• Fan-shaped areas of sediment and boulder accumulation at the outlets of canyons; or • Canyon areas below hillside and mountains that have recently (within one to six years) been subjected to a wildland fire.
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Chapter 5: Landslides
Map 5-1: Landslide Hazards
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Chapter 5: Landslides
IMPACTS OF DEVELOPMENT
Although landslides are a natural occurrence, human impacts can substantially affect the potential for landslide failures. The increasing scarcity of developable land, particularly in urban areas, increases the tendency to build on geologically marginal land. Additionally, hillside housing developments in Southern California are prized for the views that they provide. Given the demand for such amenities, and the hazards that are present when building in areas of potential landslides, it is essential to exercise proper planning and geotechnical engineering to reduce the threat of safety of people, property, and infrastructure.
Excavation and Grading
Slope excavation is common in the development of home sites or roads on sloping terrain.
Grading these slopes can result in some slopes that are steeper than the pre -existing natural slopes. Since slope steepness is a major factor in landslides, these steeper slopes can be at an increased risk for landslides. The added weight of fill placed on slopes can also res ult in an increased landslide hazard. Small landslides can be fairly common along roads, in either the road cut or the road fill. Landslides occurring below new construction sites are indicators of the potential impacts stemming from excavation.
Drainage and Groundwater Alterations
Water flowing through or above ground is often the trigger for landslides. Any activity that increases the amount of water flowing into landslide-prone slopes can increase landslide hazards.
Broken or leaking water or sewer lines can be especially problematic, as can water retention facilities that direct water onto slopes. However, even excessive lawn irrigation in landslide prone locations can result in damaging landslides.
Ineffective storm water management and excess runoff can also cause erosion and increase the risk of landslide hazards. Development that results in an increase in impervious surface 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.
36 Changes in Vegetation
Removing vegetation from very steep slopes can increase landslide hazards. Areas that experience wildfire and land clearing for development may have long periods of increased landslide hazard. Also, certain types of ground cover have a much greater need fo r constant watering to remain green. Changing away from native ground cover plants may increase the risk
36 Homeowners Guide for Landslide Control. Hillside Flooding. Debris Flows, Soil Erosion. (March 1997).
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Chapter 5: Landslides
of landslide.
Conclusion
The geographic extent of landslide hazards in Pomona is relatively small, comprising only a small percentage of the total area of the City. Additionally, the communities present in this area have some of the lower housing densities in the City; the number of people that would be directly impacted by a landslide is estimated to be very low. However, due to the potential for loss of life and property damage that can be caused by landslides, the extent of this hazard could have far - reaching community effects.
5.2.3 PROBABILITY OF FUTURE OCCURRENCE
The probability of a landslide event is fairly low. The City of Pomona has experience d three notable landslide events in the past twenty years; however, hillside areas where landslides could occur account for a small geographic area of the city. Additionally, revisions to the hillside ordinance in 20 10 year put additional constraints on ne w development to decrease the risk of landslides to people and property.
5.3 VULNERABLILITY ASSESSMENT
OVERVIEW
Hillsides where landslides could occur comprise a small portion of the City, but the presence of lifeline routes and many residences in these areas augment the risk of significant damage to the City and its inhabitants. Development in these hillsides increases the risks in locations that are naturally prone to landslides, and where ancient landslides have occurred in the past.
5.3.1 IDEN TIFYING VULNERABILITIES
Landslides can affect structures, utility services, transportation lifelines, and critical facilities.
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. Loss of electricity has the most widespread impact on other utilities and on the whole community. Natural gas pipes may also be at risk of breakage from landslide movements as small as an inch or two.
LIFELINES AND CRITICAL FACILITIES
No critical facilities are located within areas susceptible to landslides. However, disruption of a City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 5: Landslides
major transportation lifeline could impair access to facilities in the City. To the greatest extent possible, lifelines and critical facilities should remain accessible during a natural hazard event.
The impact of closed transportation arteri es may be increased if the closed road or bridge is critical for hospitals and other emergency facilities. Therefore, inspection and repair of critical transportation facilities and routes is essential and should receive high priority. Primary transportation routes in Pomona that pass near hillsides at -risk to landslides are SR -57 and SR-
60. Although debris that damaged or obstructed these routes would certainly have negative impacts on the flow of traffic, it would not be extremely adverse, as these routes do not pass through the center of the City and there are alternative corridors available should these become compromised. In addition, portions of the Union Pacific Railroad pass by areas that are susceptible to landslides. Debris on the tracks would delay both passenger and freight cargo, and potentially cause serious damage to the tracks.
RECREATION AND COMMUNITY CENTERS
As mentioned in Chapter 4 Earthquakes , the popular Ganesha Park is located near slopes susceptible landslides. In response to the landslide event of March 2003 in Ganesha Park (discussed above in the Historic Events portion of Section 5.2 Hazard Profile), the City evaluated the risk posed by slope movement, specifically to the park's swimming pool and community center. The City's geotechnical study asserted that in the event of a reoccurrence of slope failure at the site, the slide would be unlikely to reach the community center. The report concluded that this landslide area does not pose significant potential for loss of life or damage to the community center. In order to mitig ate future occurrences from slope failure at the site, the City is in the process of requesting bids to implement recommendations contained in the geotechnical report.
VULNERABLE DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS
Fortunately, the majority of landslide-prone locations that have been mapped occur in areas of designated open space. However, nearby residential communities are at -risk to this hazard in portions of Phillips Ranch and of Ganesha Hills. These communities are largely de veloped, and any new development in these areas should be carefully evaluated to help avoid activities that increase landslide vulnerability.
5.3.2 ESTIMATING POTENTIAL LOSSES
Factors included in assessing landslide vulnerability include population and property distribution in the hazard area, the frequency of lands lide or debris flow occurrences, slope steepness, soil characteristics, and precipitation intensity. This type of analysis could generate dollar estimates of the damages to the city due to a s pecific landslide or debris flow event. At the time of publication of this plan, data was insufficient to conduct a risk analysis and the software needed to conduct this type of analysis was not available.
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Chapter 5: Landslides
5.3.3 CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT
Climate change is a contributing factor for increased droughts, extreme storms, floods, and wildfire, all of which contribute to and can increase the rate and severity of landslides.37
37 https://climate.nasa.gov/effects/, accessed November 2021
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 6: Wildfire
6 Wildfire
6.1 INTRODUCTION
For thousands of years, fires have been a natural part of the ecosystem in Southern California.
However, wildfires present a substantial hazard to life and property in communities built within or adjacent to hillsides and mountainous areas. This risk is pr esent wherever open space areas connect or 'interface' with urban and suburban areas. In California, the hot dry climate and large, mountainous wildland/urban interface area create a tremendous potential for losses due to wildfire.
In the last two decades, Californians have been sharply reminded of the devastating capabilities of wildfire. During this time, records have been broken and broken again in connection with total acres burned and lives and property lost.
6.2 HAZARD PROFILE
HAZARD DESCRIPTION
A wild fire is an uncontrolled fire spreading through vegetative fuels, exposing and possibly damaging or consuming structures. Wildfires often begin unnoticed and spread quickly, particularly in dry areas, and are usually signaled by dense smoke that fills the area for miles around. These fires are classified into two broad categories. • A wildland fire is a wildfire in undeveloped areas, which excludes the urbanized regions. • An urban-wildland interface fire is a wildfire in an area where the vegetative fuel meets or intermingles with wildlands or vegetative fuel.
Although Pomona is not adjacent to a large wildland area, Pomona contains some open space lands in the east. Although the amount of open space is small compared to developed lands in Pomona, the potential for wildland/urban interface fires poses a considerable hazard.
WILDFIRE CHARACTERISTICS
There are three categories of interface fire:
38 • The classic wildland/urban interface exists where well defined urban and suburban development presses up against open expanses of wildland areas;
38 Planning for Natural Hazards: The Oregon Technical Resource Guide. (July 2000) Department of Land Conservation and Development.
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• The mixed wildland/urban interface is characterized by isolated homes, subdivisions and small communities situated predominantly in wildland settings; and • The occluded wildland/urban interface exists where islands of wildland vegetation occur inside a largely urbanized area, as in the case of Pomona.
Certain conditions must be present for significant interface fires to occur. The most common conditions include hot, dry, and windy weather; the inability of fire protection forces to contain or suppress the fire; the occurrence of multiple fires that overwhelm committed resources; and a large fuel load (dense vegetation). Once a fire has started. several conditions influence its behavior, including fuel topography, weather, drought, and development.
Fuel
Fuel is the material that feeds a fire and is a key factor in wildfire behavior. Fuel is classified by volume and by type. Volume is described in terms of "fuel loading', or the amount of available vegetative fuel.
The type of fuel also influences wildfire. Chaparral is a primary fuel of Southern California wildfires. Chaparral habitat ranges in elevation from near sea level to over 5,000 feet in Southern California. Chaparral communities experience long dry summers and receive most of their annual precipitation from winter rains. Although chaparral is often considered as a single species, there are two distinct types: hard chaparral and soft chaparral. Within these two types are dozens of different plants, each with its own particular characteristics.
An important element in understanding the danger of wildfire is the availability of diverse fuels in the landscape, such as natural vegetation, manmade structures, and combustible materials. A house surrounded by brushy growth rather t han cleared space allows for greater continuity of fuel and increases the fire's ability to spread. After decades of fire suppression “dog-hair" thickets have accumulated, which enable high intensity fires to flare and spread rapidly.
Topography
Topography influences the movement of air, thereby directing a fire course. For example, if the percentage of uphill slope doubles, the rate of spread in wildfire will likely double. Gulches a nd canyons can funnel air and act as chimneys, which intensify fire behav ior and cause the fire to spread faster. Solar heating of dry, south -facing slopes produces up slope drafts that can complicate fire behavior. Unfortunately, hillsides with hazardous topographic characteristics are also desirable residential areas in many communities. This underscores the need for wildfire hazard mitigation and increased education and outreach to homeowners living in interface areas.
Weather
Weather patterns combined with certain geographic locations can create a favorable climate for wildfire activity. Areas where annual precipitation is less than 30 inches per year are extremely City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 6: Wildfire
fire susceptible.39 High risk areas in Southern California share a hot, dry season in late summer and early fall when high temperatures and low humidity favor fire activity. The “Santa Ana" winds, which are heated by compression as they flow down to Southern California from Utah, create a particularly high risk, as they can rapidly spread what might otherwise be a small fire.
Drought
Recent concerns about the effects of climate change - particularly drought - are contributing to concerns about wildfire vulnerability. The term drought is applied to a period in which an unusual scarcity of rain causes a serious hydrological imbalance. Unusually dry winters, or significantly less rainfall than normal, can lead to relatively drier conditions and leave reservoirs and water tables lower. Drought leads to problems with irrigation and may contribute to additional fires, or additional difficulties in fighting fires.
Development
Wildfire has an effect on development, yet development can also influence wildfire. Owners often prefer homes that are private, have scenic views are nestled in vegetation and use natural materials. A private setting may be far from public roads, or hidden behind a narrow, curving driveway. These conditions, however, make evacuation and firefighting difficult. The scenic views found along mountain ridges can also m ean areas of dangerous topography. Natural vegetation contributes to scenic beauty, but it may also provide a ready trail of fuel leading a fire directly to the combustible fuels of the home itself.
6.2.1 HISTORIC EVENTS
Large fires have been part of the Southern California landscape for millennia. Written documents reveal that during the 19th Century human settlement of southern California altered the fire regime of coastal California by increasing the fire frequency. This was an era of very limited fire suppression, and yet like today, large crown fires covering tens of thousands of acres were not uncommon. One of the largest fires in Los Angeles County (60,000 acres) occurred in 1878, and the largest fire in Orange County's history, in 1889, was over half a million acres. 40 2003 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FIRES
The fall of 2003 marked the most destructive wildfire season to that date in California history. In a ten - day period, 12 separate fires raged across Southern California in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Ventura counties. The massive “Cedar Fire” in San Diego County consumed 2,800 homes and burned over a quarter of a million acres. Although the 2003 fires did not reach Pomona, they did burn areas of the adjacent city of Claremont , and Santa Ana winds blew heavy smoke into Pomona.
39 Ibid.
40 http://www.usgs.gov/pubIic/press/public _affairs/press _releases/pr1805m.html, accessed November 2021.
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Chapter 6: Wildfire
2007 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FIRES
In late October 2007, Southern California experienced an unusually severe fire weather event characterized by intense, dry, gusty Santa Ana winds. This weather event drove a series of destructive wildfires that took a devastating toll on people, property, natural resources, and infrastructure. Although some fires burned into early November, the heaviest damage occurred during the first three days of the siege when the winds were the strongest. During this siege, 17 people lost their lives, ten were killed b y the fires outright, three were killed while evacuating, four died from other fire siege related causes, and 140 firefighters and an unknown number of civilians were injured. A total of 3,069 homes and other buildings were destroyed, and hundreds more were damaged. Hundreds of thousands of people were evacuated at the height of the siege.
The fires burned over half a million acres, including populated areas, wildlife habitat s and watersheds.
Portions of the electrical power distribution network, telecommu nications systems, and even some community water sources were destroyed. Transportation was disrupted over a large area for several days, including numerous road closures. Both the Governor of California and the President of the United States personally toured the ongoing fires. Governor Schwarzenegger proclaimed a state of emergency in seven counties before the end of the first day. President Bush quickly declared a major disaster. While the total impact of the 2007 fire siege was less than the disastrous fires of 2003, it was unquestionably one of the most devastating wildfire events in the history of California. 41 2017-2020 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA FIRES
In terms of property damage, 2017 was the most destructive wildfire season on record in California at the time. Throughout 2017, the fires destroyed or damaged more than 10,000 structures in the state (destroyed 9,470, damaged 810), a higher tally than the previous nine years combined. In total 9,133 fires burned 1,248,606 acres. In December 2017, strong Sant a Ana winds triggered a new round of wildfires, including the massive Thomas Fire in Ventura County. At the time, the Thomas Fire was California's largest modern wildfire, which has since been surpassed by the Mendocino Complex's Ranch Fire in 2018. The December 2017 fires forced over 230,000 people to evacuate. 2017 will be remembered as a year of extremes. It was the third-warmest year on record for the United States, and it was the second hottest in California, bringing to the surface the question of lon g-term climate change and its contribution to the 2017 California fires. The hotter temperatures dry out vegetation, making them easier to burn, predisposing vulnerable regions like California to more wildfires in the coming decades as temperatures continue to rise and rainfall continues to decline.
42 The 2018 wildfire season was the deadliest and most destructive wildfire season on record in California, with a total of over 7,500 fires burning an area of over 1,670,000 acres. In mid-July to August 2018, a series of large wildfires erupted across California, mostly in the northern part of the state. In November 2018, another round of large, destructive fires launched including the Woolsey Fire in Los Angeles and Ventura counties and the Camp Fire in Butte County, which killed at least 85 people. 43 While 2019 was a relatively mild fire season, it should be noted that Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern
41 http://www.fire.ca.gov/fire_protection/downloads/siege/2007/Overview_Introduction.pdf), accessed November 2021 42 https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2017/, accessed November 2021 43 https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2018/, accessed November 2021
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California Edison, and San Diego Gas & electric preemptively shut off power to 800,000 electrical customers to reduce the risk of wildfires by preventing electrical arcing in high winds from their above - ground power lines.44
The 2020 California wildfire season was characterized by a record -setting year of wildfires that burned across the state. As of the end of the year, nearly 10,000 fires had burned over 4.2 million acres, more than 4% of the state’s roughly 100 million acres of land, making 2020 the largest wildfire season recorded in California’s modern history.
45 6.2.2 HAZARD LOCATION AND EXTENT
Wildfire hazard areas are commonly identified in regions of the wildland/urban interface. In Pomona, this interface is present in the western and southwestern hills. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) maps levels of fire threat base on groundcover and topography. The increased threat of fires in the hilly areas of Pomona is illustrated in Map 6- 1, with portions of the Phillips Ranch and Ganesha Hills areas obtaining a “High" and "Very High" level of fire threat. The rest of the City is considered to have a “Moderate" threat of fire as mapped by this system.
46 While groundcover and topography are the primary indices of fire vulnerability, there are other factors that can greatly influence the severity of a fire. Dry weather conditions, the natures of the fuel sources, the presence or absence of drought conditions, and the types of development present all have impacts on fire hazards. In Pomona, the critical times of the year when wildland fires could occur are the late summ er and fall months, as the Santa Ana winds deliver hot, dry desert air into the region.
6.2.3 PROBABILITY OF FUTURE EVENTS
Although the probability of future wildfires in the region is high, the fire risk areas of Pomona are largely isolated from the fire prone mountainous areas in the region. Therefore, the probability of large wildfires in the San Gabriel Mountains or other large open space areas in the region spreading to Pomona is not considered a high probability event. However, the City does have large areas of fire risk, particularly in the southwestern corner of the City (in Phillips Ranch, and Cal Poly Pomona areas) and in the Ganesha Hills area. Provided with the right combination of factors (dry vegetation, Santa Ana winds), even a small fire c ould quickly spread and threaten nearby development.
6.3 VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT
OVERVIEW
44 https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2019/, accessed November 2021 45 https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2020,/, accessed November 2021 46 California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. website: http://frap.cdf.ca.gov/data/frapgismaps/select.asp, accessed J une 6. 2004
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Chapter 6: Wildfire
As a highly urbanized area, the risk of wildfire is limited to localized areas ( see Map 6-1). The probability is very low however, in those areas where the risk from wildfire is considered high, there are a number of vulnerabilities that should be considered in the mitigation planning process. As building recovery continues the area of open space is rapidly diminishing. Very few open areas remain and those are on hillsides with strict building codes to mitigate fire risks.
6.3.1 IDENTIFYING VULNERABILITIES
There are two critical facilities located within a High Threat Zone, and several vulnerable public and private schools. Parts of Cal Poly Pomona are also vulnerable to wildfire. Factors that decrease a structures resistance to fire include combustible roofing material, wood construction, structures with no defensible space, and inadequate access for fire and other emergency vehicles. The highest rated risks from wildfire in Pomona are the residential communities near the wildland/urban interface. Not only are communities in Phillips Ranch and Ganesha Hills subject to fire risk due to prevalence of open spaces combined with steep slopes, but neighborhoods on the outskirts of fire hazard areas can be impacted by fire. This risk increases during Santa Ana wind conditions, with potential for property damage, injury, and fatalities.
There are also a small number of facilities and assets that are considered to be at me dium risk from wildfires in Pomona. These include the following:
• Diamond Ranch High School . The school is located in an area identified with a potential for wildfire. However, the modern building standards used in construction (including noncombustible materials) reduce the potential for damage to the facility. • Cal Poly Pomona. The open spaces around Cal Poly Pomona create the potential for high fire hazard.
6.3.2 ESTIMATING POTENTIAL LOSSES
The primary vulnerability in Pomona to wildfire is development within High or Very High Fire Threat Zones. However, it should be considered that the actual risk to these structures is dependent on a number of factors, most notably construction type, building standards, how a fire spreads, and the response from local fire crews.
6.3.3 CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT
Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of wildfires in California. Since 1950, the area burned by California wildfires each year has been increasing, as spring and summer temperatures have warmed, and spring snowmelt has occurred earlier. During the recent “hotter” drought, unusually warm temperatures intensified the effects of very low precipitation and snowpack, creating conditions for extreme, high severity wildfires that spread rapidly. Of the City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 6: Wildfire
20 largest fires in California’s history, eight have occurred since 2017.47 The 2020 August Complex Fire is now the largest recorded wildfire in California, more than doubling the 2018 Mendocino Complex Fire’s size to become California’s largest recorded wildfire.48
47 https://science2017.globalchange.gov/chapter/8/, accessed November 2021 48 Note: As of the preparation of this report, the Dixie Fire in Northern California has surpassed the August Complex Fire to become the largest in the state’s history. As of August 25, 2021, CalFIRE reported more than 735,000 acres burned across five counties. Source:
https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2021/7/14/dixie-fire/
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Chapter 6: Wildfire
Figure 6-1: Top 20 Largest California Wildfires
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Chapter 6: Wildfire
Figure 6-2: Top 20 Deadliest California Wildfires
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Chapter 6: Wildfire
Figure 6-3: Top 20 Most Destructive California Wildfires
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Chapter 6: Wildfire
Map 6-1: Areas Susceptible to Wildland Fires
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 7: Flooding
7 Flooding
7.1 INTRODUCTION
Flooding has not been a serious hazard to Pomona in several decades, and the risk of disastrous flooding in the City is considered relatively small when compared to the potential for earthquake or wildfire damage to the City. Pomona does not lie within a 1 00- or 500- year floodplain, as delineated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Although bisected by several waterways, these creeks have all been channelized, and remain dry except during storm events.
However, the potential for a flood event still exists within Pomona, and it is an important hazard to be addressed in the City's LHMP.
7.2 HAZARD PROFILE
HAZARD DESCRIPTION
Flooding hazards are directly related to precipitation (rainfall) intensity and duration.
Topography, type and extent of vegetation coverage, area of impermeable surfaces, local slope characteristics, and available drainage facilities all factor into an area's ability to divert precipitation runoff. However, a key element in safely managing runoff volume is the extent of urbanized area. Urbanization increases the volume and velocity of runoff water via two main processes:
• Areas that would normally absorb rainfall (e.g., soils) have been replaced by impermeable surfaces (e.g., streets, houses); and
• The channelization and accumulat ion of runoff water adds to the collective whole resulting in increased volumes and velocity.
The size, or magnitude, of a flood is described by a term called a "recurrence interval.'' By studying a long period of flow records for a stream, it is possible to estimate the size of a flood that would have a five -year recurrence interval (also called a five-year flood or five -year flood event). A five-year flood is one that would occur, on the average, once every five years (or has 20 percent of occurring during any year). Although a 100-year flood is expected to happen only once in a century, there is a one-percent chance that a flood of that size could happen during any year.
The magnitude of flood events could be altered if changes are made to a drainage basin, such as an increase in the amount of impervious (i.e., paved) surfaces.
FEMA, as part of its statutory responsibilities to carry out the National Flood Insurance Program, has m
apped most of the flood risk areas within the United States. In fact, most communities with City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 7: Flooding
a one percent chance of a flood occurring in any given year ( 100-year flood) h ave a flood way depicted on a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). However, according to FEMA, Pomona is designated as Flood Zone D, which is an area with "undetermined possible flood hazards". 49
7.2.1 HISTORIC EVENTS
The history of flooding in Pomona provides an excellent basis to document the effectiveness of existing flood mitigation activities in the City. The flooding hazard is one that has been reduced, through mitigation, from a chronic and damaging natural disaster to a comparatively minor inconvenience to the residents of Pomona.
The City of Pomona is built on the edge of the San Antonio Canyon floodplain, and as a consequence was subjected to regular flooding events throughout its history. Witness reports describe floodwaters to the height of pickup truck beds and floodwaters covering the streets of downtown. In response to a series of particularly disastrous floods in the 1930s, the City developed an extensive network of flood control channels sufficient to provide protection from major flood event s (for details on flood channels, refer to the Section 11.2.4 Existing Flood Mitigation Activities).
50 January 1916 Flood
Heavy rainfall during the month of January 1916 resulted in overflowing rivers and streams that devastated much of Southern California. The most significant damage occurred in San Diego County, but San Bernardino, Riverside, Ventura, and Los Angeles Counties were also impacted.
Farmlands, dams, bridges, water mains, pipelines, irrigation ditches, wells and pumps, and power plants in these counties were damaged or destroyed. The storms caused the deaths of 22 people in San Diego County, 4 people in Orange County, and 2 people in San Bernardino County. The City of Pomona sustained approximately $15,000 in damage of washes and fills in streets. 51 March 1938 Flood
A series of almost constant and intense rainfall began during the month of January 1938. By March, much of the terrain in Southern California was already saturated when a slow -moving warm front collided with the Transverse Range resulting in an average of 22.5 inches from February 27 to March 4. The storms resulted in the deaths of 87 people and an estimated $79 million in damage. It was the worst storm on record in nearly 70 years. 52 January 1969 Flood
Several storms occurred in central and southern California during the months of January and
49 https://msc.fema.gov/portal/advanceSearch#searchresultsancho, accessed December 2021 50 Ibid.
51 https://pubs.usgs.gov/wsp/0426/report.pdf, accessed December 2021 52 https://geochange.er.usgs.gov/sw/impacts/hydrology/state_fd/cawater1.html, accessed December 2021
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February resulting in 60 deaths. Approximately $400 million in damage resulted, in large part due to recent home construction in flood prone areas. 53 Peak discharges were 38% to 78% hig her than the previous record in March 1938.
The City of Pomona was not alone in improving its flood control measures following the storms that occurred in 1938. The floods that affected the City were widespread and damaging in many cities in the vicinity; regional flood control structures were constructed as part of the Santa Ana River Basin flood protection program, authorized by the Flood Control Acts of 1936 and 1938. 54 These improvements included the San Antonio Dam, which was constructed and is currently located five miles northeast of the City.
Following construction of the flood control measures -which were collectively completed during the late 1950s and 1960s-the City of Pomona witnessed a drastic reduction in flooding hazards.
Flooding hazards are now restricted to localized pockets of inundation, primarily in low -lying areas such as underpasses or locations with deficiencies in the storm drainage system. This local flooding occurs on a seasonal basis, depending on the intensity and duration of prec ipitation during the wet season.
7.2.2 HAZARD LOCATION AND EXTENT
Although Pomona does not lie within a designated floodplain management area, flooding is still a potential hazard to the community. The two types of flooding that could affect the City of Pomona are storm-related flooding and dam inundation.
Althoug
h the City has not experienced large -scal
e storm-related flooding since the construction
of flood control infrastructure, localized inundation remains a concern for Pomona residents.
Members of the community have indicated that heavy rainfall results in highly localized areas of minor flooding. This assertion is quantified by data provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The City has participated in FEMA’s National Flood Insura nce Program since 1984 .
55 Although exact locations of recorded flood damage were unavailable at the time of publication of this plan, known locations with flooding issues include low- lying underpasses and locations with deficiencies in the storm drainage system. While localized flooding does impede traffic flow, the extent of the flooding hazard in Pomona does not overwhelm the City's resources or result in significant adverse impacts.
DAM INUNDATION
The more widespread and serious flooding risk to Pomona is presented by the hazard of dam
53 https://pubs.usgs.gov/wsp/2030/report.pdf, accessed December 2021 54 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Los Angeles District Reservoir Regulation Section website. http://www.spl.usace.army.mil/resreg/htdocs/snto.html, accessed October 2021 55 Federal Emergency Management Agency. National Flood Program; website: http://www.fema.gov/nfip/104003 I 2.shtm#06, accessed November 4, 2021. Refers to claims processed through December 31, 2020.
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Chapter 7: Flooding
inundation. There are four impoundments in the vicinity of Pomona, two of which have the potential to flood the City in the event of dam failure. Although this hazard would have the potential to cause greater injury and property damage than the storm -related flood events, the likelihood of occurrence is vastly lower.
San Antonio Dam
The San Antonio Dam, completed in 1956, is located approximately five miles northeast of the City. The dam is operated by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). This dam serves primarily as a major flood control structure and therefore does not store large quantities of water except during periods of heavy rain. However, the reservoir has a capacity of 9,350 acre -feet of water and, when full, failure or rupture of the San Antonio Dam would release waters and result in the flooding of areas south of the dam. This area includes large portions of the City, in northern and eastern Pomona. In total, the amount of Pomona at risk to inundation (7,170 acres) equals 48 percent of the City's total land area. The San Antonio Dam inundation boundary is illustrated in Map 7-1.
Live Oak Reservoir
The Live Oak Reservoir also poses a flooding threat to Pomona. This reservoir is operated by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) and is utilized for flood control and water conservation purposes. It is located on unincorporated County land between the Cities of La Verne and Claremont, approximately two miles north of Pomona. This reservoir is smaller than the San Antonio Dam and has a maximum capacity of 2,500 acre-feet
56. In the event of failure of
this reservoir, northern portions of the City could be inundated, primarily at the Fairplex. The total amount of land area subject to flooding from this dam is 640 acres, which accounts for four percent of the City. Map 7-1 illustrates the areas that could be subject to inundation in the event of dam failure.
56 City of Pomona Master Environmental Assessment, April 1994, City of Pomona. Materials Recovery Facility Draft Environmental Impact Report. April 1996.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 7: Flooding
Map 7-1: Flood Hazards
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 8: Windstorms
FLOOD SEVERITY
The following are ways in which floods may vary in severity:
• Flood volume (t he total volume of water in the flood) – this contributes to both the level and duration of flooding. Dams and detention basins are less effective at flood mitigation during large volume floods.
• Rate of rise (how fast the flood rises) – a flood that rises quickly provides less time for warning and evacuation.
• Flow velocity (how fast water is flowing) – f aster flow causes a higher risk to human life, a higher risk of erosion, and more damage to infrastructure. • Flood duration – a f lood that lasts for a longer time can have a greater impact due to the increased duration of the disruption to transport, business and personal networks. • Areal extent – flooding that affects a larger area often has a greater impact.57
FLOOD MAGNITUDE
The peak level of water at a particular location in a waterway is called flood magnitude with three classifications:
• Minor – C auses inconvenience such as closing of minor roads and the submergence of low-level bridges.
• Moderate – I nundation in low lying areas requiring removal of livestock and/or evacuation of some houses.
• Major – Inu ndation of large areas, isolating towns and cities. Major disruptions occur to transportation networks. Evacuation of residents and businesses may be required. In rural areas, widespread flooding of farmland is likely.58
7.2.3 PROBABILITY OF FUTURE EVENTS
It is unlikely that the City of Pomona will experience significant storm -related flooding in the future comparable to the scale of floods that took place in its early history. The considerable flood control infrastructure that was developed mid -century has been very effective in preventing large-scale flood events. On the other hand, it is anticipated that localized flooding will continue to occur in the City in the absence of appropriate mitigation measures.
The probability of dam inundation is low. For much of the year, the water levels at these dams are very low or empty. Due to the distance between the reservoirs and Pomona, even in the unlikely event of a dam breach, depending on the water level of the reservoirs, the flood may not
57 http://www.chiefscientist.qld.gov.au/floods, accessed January 2022. 58 Ibid.
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Chapter 8: Windstorms
even reach City limits.
7.3 VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT
OVERVIEW
The City of Pomona has a low vulnerability to flood hazards . Current flood control measures effectively prevent the types of damaging floo ds that were experienced in the 1930s. Current flood issues are restricted to localized street inundation during heavy storm events. With the completion of the I-210 freeway the dam inundation was eliminated.
Although localized flooding occurs seasonally, it has minimal impacts on the City due to its limited location and extent. Dam inundation is also considered to be a low impact hazard. Although it would be far more damaging if it took place, the probability of dam failure is very low due to the engineering standards and safety procedures in place at the dams whose failures would impact the City.
Since the City entered the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) in 1984, only 6 total losses have been reported resulting in $42,949 in payments, and no structures have reported repetitive losses.
7.3.1 IDENTIFYING VULNERABILITIES
The City of Pomona is quite resilient to storm -related flooding. Due to the limited scope of the hazard, no structures are considered directly vulnerable to flood damage. The greatest impact caused by storm -related flooding is impediments to the circulation of traffic. Motorists are required to make detours when flooding renders streets impassible. This is typically nothing more than an inconvenience; however, flooding at the underpasses at the Southern Pacific Railroad are a greater vulnerability to Pomona than the other flooding locations.
Thes
e major north -south arterials are the only transportation routes th at have underpasses constructed beneath the railroad. In the event of a train derailment in the City, it would be crucial for these routes to remain open, as they are the only routes that would not be subjected to closure by a train derailment. North-south circulation in Pomona is crucial to be able to maintain access to the City's only hospital, the Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center. If the underpasses were flooded during such an event, it would seriously hamper the ability of emergency response vehicles to traverse the City and gain access to the hospital. Although a highly improbable series of events would have to occur in order to result in this scenario, "worst case scenario" analysis is essential to address multi-hazard planning challenges and maximize mitigation effectiveness. For this reason, the underpasses of Garey, White, and Towne Avenues are considered vulnerabilities to the City and are specifically addressed in the multi -hazard ac
tion plan items.
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Chapter 8: Windstorms
With the completion of the I- 210 Freeway, the waters from the San Antonio Dam would divert around the city. The freeway is below grade through La Verne, Claremont and Upland which would catch the flow and send the water around Pomona. A new study from the Corps of Engineers and the State is needed to address the new inundation area.
There are relatively few critical facilities and vulnerabilities in the inundation limit of Live Oak Reservoir. The majority of the flooding would occur on grounds currently occupied by the Fairplex. However, approximat ely 700 residences are located within the inundation area and would require significant emergency evacuation and response in the unlikely event of dam failure. Several neighborhoods in the northwest corner of Pomona are also susceptible to inundation due to dam failure at Thompson Creek.
It is important to emphasize that the risk of widespread, damaging floods from dam inundation is very low. If a dam breach were to occur, the floodwaters would take several hours to reach the City, and the scenario of dam failure In Pomona would be that of a slow-moving, shallow body of water, rather than a catastrophic release of damaging water volumes.
7.3.2 ESTIMATING POTENTIAL LOSSES
Quantifying potential losses due to flooding is a complex process. The primary source of potential flooding damage to the City is dam inundation, a hazard that is highly unlikely to happen. In the event of a dam failure, factors such as the amount of water in the reservoir (both of the reservoirs' water levels fluctuate seasonally), rate o f water output, and ability to implement emergency notification procedures would significantly influence the amount of loss sustained by the City.
7.3.3 CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT
While climate change does not directly cause flooding, climate change can affect the intensity and frequency of precipitation, which in turn increases the potential for flooding. Warmer oceans increase the amount of water that evaporates into the air. 59 When more moisture-laden
air moves over land or converges into a storm system, it can produce more intense precipitation—for example, heavier rain and snowstorms. The potential impacts of heavy precipitation include an increase in flood risk due to heavy rains, which in turn can lead to injuries, drownings, and other flooding -related effects on health. In addition, runoff from precipitation can impair water quality as pollutants deposited on land wash into water bodies.
59 https://www.epa.gov/climate-indicators/climate-change-indicators-heavy-precipitation, accessed December 2021
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Chapter 8: Windstorms
8 Windstorms
8.1 INTRODUCTION
Windstorms have not been a serious hazard in Pomona, and the potential risk of widespread damage from wind is not as considerable as the risk from earthquakes or wildfires. Nevertheless, 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 can and do occasionally cause damage to local homes and businesses. Severe windstorms can present a very destabilizing effec t on the dry brush that covers local hillsides and urban wildland interface areas and increase wildfire threat. Destructive impacts to trees, power lines, and utility services also are associated with high winds.
8.2 HAZARD PROFILE
HAZARD DESCRIPTION
Santa Ana Winds
Based on local history,
most incidents of high
wind in the City of
Pomona are the result of
Santa Ana wind
conditions. While high
impact wind incidents are
not frequent in the area,
significant Santa Ana
wind events have been
known to negatively
impact the local
community.
Santa Ana winds are
blustery, warm – (often
hot) – dry winds that blow
Figure 8-1: Santa Ana Winds
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 8: Windstorms
from the east or northeast. These occur below the passes and canyons of the coastal ranges of Southern California and in the Los Angeles basin, and typically occur from October to March when cooler air in the desert increase air pressure and creates the westward winds. Generally speaking, winds must reach 25 knots to be classified as a Santa Ana wind.
The map above (Figure 8-1) 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. Located between Los Angeles and the San Bernardino Mountains, and south of the San Gabriel Mountains, the City of Pomona is in the direct path of the ocean-bound Santa Ana winds.
8.2.1 HISTORIC EVENTS
In 2003 two deaths were caused by fierce Santa Ana wind conditions . A falling tree struck one woman in San Diego, and the second death occurred when a passenger in a vehicle was hit by a flying pickup truck cover launched by Santa Ana winds.
In 2011 the cities west of Pomona suffered
millions in damage due to downed trees from the winds over a 2 -day period. Power was out for over 1 week in some areas.
In Pomona, the City does not track damage due to windstorms. However, reports of dislodged roofs and fallen trees and power lines are common. These are not considered major widespread threats to population and property but do involve responses from emergency service personnel.
Fallen power lines have potential for most widespread consequences of power outages and fire.
It should be noted that falling trees can occasionally cause fatalities and serious structural damage. These types of incidents are rare in occurrence as well as localized. Due to their limited impacts, none of the risks associated with windstorm are considered high.
8.2.2 HAZARD LOCATION AND EXTENT
Windstorms that affect Pomona, notably Santa Ana winds, are not location specific but rather impact the entire City area. Passes between hillsides are susceptible to slightly higher wind speeds, although the amount of unsheltered development in hillside passes is not substantial. In the case of a Santa Ana wind - which can last several days - hazards created by wind-fallen trees or utility poles can threaten property and have the potential for personal injury and even death.
In Pomona, older neighborhoods generally have larger trees. Although these trees are usually large and well-rooted enough to withstand higher speed winds, tree limbs can create significant hazards.
Various scales for estimating the potential damage caused by wind have been developed. The Beaufort Scale developed by Sir Francis Beaufort in 1805 is commonly used and illustrates the effects that varying wind speeds can have on sea swells and structures.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 8: Windstorms
Table 8-1: Beaufort Scale
BEAUFORT
FORCE
SPEED
(MHP) WIND DESCRIPTION – EFFECTS ON LAND
0 < 1 Calm - Smoke rises vertically
1 1 – 3 Light - Air Ripples–look like scales - Smoke drift shows direction of wind, but wind vanes do not
2 4–– 7 Light Breeze - Wind vanes move; Leaves rustle; Wind can be felt 3 8 ––12 Gentle Breeze - Leaves and small twigs move constantly; Small, light flags are extended
4 13– 18 Moderate Breeze - Wind lifts dust and loose paper; Small branches move
5 19– 24 Fresh Breeze - Small trees with leaves begin to move 6 25–31 Strong Breeze - Large branches move; Telegraph wires whistle; Hard to hold umbrellas
7 32– 38 Near Gale - Whole trees move; Resistance felt walking into wind 8 39– 46 Gale - Twigs and small branches break off trees; Difficult to walk 10 55– 63 Storm - Trees broken or uprooted; Considerable structural damage 11 64–73 Violent Storm - Seldom experienced inland; Considerable structural damage
12 > 74 Hurricane - Widespread damage. Very rarely experienced on land.
8.2.3 PROBABILITY OF FUTURE EVENTS
Strong Santa Ana winds typically occur on an annual basis; although it is unlikely that Pomona will be subject to widespread damage from windstorm activity, there is potential for isolated events, such as damage to property or communication utilities from the Santa Ana winds which occur frequently during the October to March season. However, it must also be noted that although Santa Ana winds are frequent, the occurrence of a wind with enough velocity to cause significant damage is much less frequent.
8.3 VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT
OVERVIEW
Based on local history, the probability is low for a damaging windstorm. There have been past occurrences of winds strong enough to create damage to property in Pomona. However, there has not been a recorded instance of a windstorm strong enough to create widespread damage City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 8: Windstorms
in Pomona. Damage is usually restricted to isolated roof and tree damage.
Life and Property
Based on the history of the region, windstorm events can be expected, perhaps annually, across widespread areas of the region that can be adversely impacted during a windstorm event. Thi s can result in the involvement of City emergency response personnel. Both residential and commercial structures with weak reinforcement are susceptible to damage. Wind pressure can create a direct and frontal assault on a structure, pushing walls, doors, and windows inward.
Conversely, passing currents can create lift suction forces that pull building components and surfaces outward. With extreme wind forces, the roof or entire building can fail causing considerable damage.
Debris carried along by extreme winds can directly contribute to loss of life and indirectly to the failure of protective building envelopes, siding, or walls. When severe windstorms strike a community, downed trees, power lines, and damaged property can be major hindrances to emergency response and disaster recovery.
Utilities
Historically, falling trees have been the major cause of power outages in the region. Windstorms can cause flying debris and downed utility lines. For example, tree limbs breaking in winds of only 45 mph can be thrown over 75 feet. As such, overhead power lines can be damaged even in relatively minor windstorm events. Falling trees can bring electric power lines down to the pavement, creating the possibility of electric shock.
Infrastructure
Windstorms can damage buildings, power lines, and other property and infrastructure due to falling trees and branches. During wet winters, saturated soils cause trees to become less stable and more vulnerable to uprooting from high winds.
Windstorms can result in collapsed or damaged buildings or blocked roads and bridges, damaged traffic signals, streetlights, and parks, among others. Roads blocked by fallen trees during a windstorm may have severe consequences to people who need access to emergency services.
Emergency respon se operations can be complicated when roads are blocked or when power supplies are interrupted. Industry and commerce can suffer losses from interruptions in electric services and from extended road closures. They can also sustain direct losses to building s, personnel, and other vital equipment. There are direct consequences to the local economy resulting from windstorms related to both physical damages and interrupted services.
Increased Fire Threat
Perhaps the greatest danger from windstorm activity in Southern California comes from the combination of the Santa Ana winds with the major fires that occur regularly in the City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 8: Windstorms
urban/wildland interface. With the Santa Ana winds driving the flames, the speed and reach of the flames is even greater than in times of calm wind conditions. The higher fire hazard raised by a Santa Ana wind condition requires that even more care and attention be paid to proper brush clearances on property in the wildland/urban interface areas.
Transportation
Windstorm activity can have an impact on local transportation in addition to the problems caused by downed trees and electrical wires blocking streets and highways. During periods of extremely strong Santa Ana winds, major highways can be temporarily closed to truck and vehicular traffic.
However, typically these disruptions are not long lasting, nor do they carry a severe long -term economic impact on the region.
8.3.1 IDENTIFYING VULNERABILITIES
The City of Pomona is not prone to widespread damage from wind and there are no critical facilities and vulnerabilities considered at high risk from windstorms.
8.3.2 ESTIMATING POTENTIAL LOSSES
Potential losses from windstorms are expected to be primarily limited to isolated impacts to property such as roof or tree damage. There are no areas of specific risk in Pomona; losses are not expected to be significant to the City.
8.3.3 CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT
Climate change is contributing to more severe weather events, including unusually hot and cold temperatures, which in turn impact the pressure systems which create wind events and the severity of windstorm events.
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Chapter 10: Goals and Objectives
9 Pandemic/Infectious Disease
9.1 INTRODUCTION
This LHMP is being prepared in 2021, during a worldwide pandemic created by the COVID -19 virus. As of December 20, 2021, there have been approximately 51.05 million cases and 807,732 deaths in the United States alone attributed to the virus, which has sparked nationwide stay -at- home orders, shuttered schools, caused severe economic distress, stressed the medical system, and taken a toll on the nation’s physical, psychological, and economic w ell-being. More about the current pandemic is covered further below in this report.
9.2 HAZARD PROFILE
Pandemics are defined as large -scale outbreaks of infectious disease for which there is little or no human immunity. Pandemics cause disease and death over a wide geographic area and cause significant economic disruption.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and Los Angeles County Department of Public Health have identified seasonal influenza and viral disease pandemics as specific hazards that would have a significant impact throughout the entire City of Pomona.
9.2.1 HISTORIC EVENTS
There have been five worldwide pandemics over the past 102 years:
1918 “Spanish Flu” (H1N1 Virus)
The 1918-1919 Spanish Flu was estimated to have sickened 20% -40% of the world’s population. Over 20 million people lost their lives. Between September 1918 and April 1919, 500,000 Americans died. The flu spread rapidly; many died within a few days of infection; others from secondary complications. The attack rate and mortality were highest among adults 20-50 years old; the reasons for this are uncertain. By late September 1918, over 35,000 people throughout California had contracted the Spanish Flu. According to state officials, influenza was most prevalent in the southern part of California, but the death toll was high across the state.
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Chapter 10: Goals and Objectives
1957-1958 “Asian Flu” (H2N2 Virus)
This virus was quickly identified due to advances in technology, and a vaccine was produced.
Infection rates were highest among school children, young adults, and pregnant women. The elderly had the highest rates of death. A second wave was developed in 1958 and in total, there were about 70,000 deaths in the United States. Worldwide deaths were estimated between roughly 1 and 2 million.
1968-1969 “Hong Kong Flu” (H3N2 Virus)
The strain of the H3N2 Hong Kong Flu caused approximately 34,000 deaths in the United States and more than 700,000 deaths globally. It was first detected in Hong Kon g in early 1968 and spread to the United States later that year. Those over the age of 65 were most likely to die. This virus returned in 1970 and 1972 and still circulates today.
2009 H1N1 Influenza Virus
The first influenza pandemic of the 21st century occurred in 2009 –2010 and was caused by an influenza A (H1N1) virus. It was the first pandemic for which many member States had developed comprehensive pandemic plans describing the public health measures to be taken, aimed at reducing illness and fatalities. For the first time, pandemic vaccinations were developed, produced, and deployed in multiple countries during its first year.
While most cases of pandemic H1N1 were mild, globally it is estimated that the 2009 pandemic caused between 100,000–400,000 deaths in the first year alone. Children and young adults were disproportionately affected in comparison to seasonal influenza, which causes severe disease mainly in the elderly, persons with chronic conditions, and pregnant women.
2019-2021 (Ongoing) Covid-19 Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2)
The world is currently facing a global viral pandemic caused by a novel coronavirus disease, SARS- CoV-2. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that usually cause mild respiratory disease, such as the common cold, but can also cause more serious illness. The virus that causes the Covid- 19 is passed from person to person through respiratory secretions, such as saliva or discharge from the nose when one coughs or sneezes. Experts currently researching the virus believe that the virus can also be spread when airborne through aerosols.
The severity of Covid -19 symptoms ranges from mild to severe and affects different people in different ways. Most infected people will develop mild to moderate illness and recover without hospitalization. Some of the most common symptoms include fever, dry cough, and fatigue. Less common symptoms include aches and pains, nasal congestion, sore throat, diarrhea, conjunctivitis, headache, loss of taste or smell, a rash on skin, or discoloration of fingers or toes.
The most serious symptoms include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, or loss of speech or movement.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 10: Goals and Objectives
9.2.2 PANDEMIC/INFECTIOUS DISEASE LOCATION AND EXTENT
Pandemic/Infectious Diseases are not location specific but rather impact the entire City and/or regional areas. In March of 2020, the World Health Organization characterized the outbreak as a pandemic, the United States declared the novel coronavirus a national emergency, Los Angeles County declared a local state of emergency.
According to Johns Hopkins University Coronavirus Resource Center, as of December 20, 2021, there have been roughly 275.3 million confirmed cases globally, 5.36 million global deaths, 51.05 million confirmed cases in the United States, and 807,732 US deaths. According to the California Department of Public Health, as of December 20, 2021, there have been 4,935,461 confirmed cases in California and 75,167 deaths, with 1,495,082 confirmed cases in Los Angeles County and 27,441 confirmed deaths. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, there have been 30,763 confirmed cases and 513 deaths in the City of Pomona to date.
At the time that this is being written, a nationwide and worldwide vaccine and booster campaign is currently underway, with vaccines approved in the United States for individuals age 12 and older. As of December 20, 2021, approximately 8,713,305,104 vaccine doses have been administered worldwide, 496,239,573 doses h ave been administered in the United States, 62,762,797 have been administered in California and approximately 6,835,658 people have been fully vaccinated in Los Angeles County. At the same time, variants of the disease are spreading, and public health officials are continually monitoring these developments.
Pomona, as well as other cities and regions across the world, faced or are facing high levels of illness, mortality, social disruption, political instability, mass unemployment, and economic losses. Rec ent impacts range from school and business closings to the interruption of basic essential services such as public transportation, health care/first aid, and the delivery of food and essential medicines to those in need.
The extent of a pandemic or infectious disease outbreak can be measured using Table 9-1 below.
Table 9-1: Level of Community Transmission
LEVEL OF COMMUNITY
TRANSMISSION
COMMUNITY CHARACTERISTICS & DESCRIPTION
Substantial, uncontrolled
transmission
Large scale, uncontrolled community transmission, including communal settings (e.g., schools, workplaces)
Substantial, controlled
transmission
Large scale, controlled transmission, including communal settings (e.g., schools, workplaces)
Minimal to moderate
community transmission
Sustained transmission with high likelihood or confirmed exposure within communal settings and potential for rapid increase in cases City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 10: Goals and Objectives
No to minimal
community transmission
Evidence of isolated cases or limited community transmission, case investigations underway; no evidence of exposure in large communal settings
9.2.3 PROBABILITY OF FUTURE OCCURRENCE
Evidence suggests that the likelihood of pandemics has increased over the past 100 years because of increased global travel and integration, urbanization, changes in land use, and greater exploitation of the natural environment. These trends likely will continue and will intensify.
The precise timing of a pandemic -scale health -related emergency is uncertain. Pandemic occurrences are most likely when a virus makes a dramatic change, or antigenic shift, that results in a new or “novel” virus to which the pop ulation has no immunity. Epidemic occurrences are more likely when there are ecological changes, the pathogen mutates, or the pathogen is introduced into an unprepared host population.
According to the World Bank, increased exposure to wildlife increases the risk to health, biosafety and global security. The current SARS -CoV-2 originated in wildlife; the virus managed to break the species barrier into humans, a phenomenon called zoonosis. Numerous other emerging vector-borne diseases also originated in wildlife and were transmitted to humans.
9.3 VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT
9.3.1 IDENTIFYING VULNERABILITIES
While the entire population of the planning area may be at risk of infectious diseases and pandemics, some portions of the population may be at greater risk, including the very young, the elderly, and immune-compromised individuals. The recent COVID-19 pandemic also illustrated a greater risk for portions of the population living in areas of concentrated pollution and poverty, who may have greater risk of comorbidity factors that can influence immune response, may not have adequate access to shelter, transportation, healthy foods, and health care, and may not have the opportunity to work from home, or to take time off from work if they become ill.
Critical facilities, the natural environment, and structures would not be impacted by an infectious disease outbreak or pandemic. The most vulnerable aspects of the community are loss of life and potentially long -term health impacts, impacts to essential public se rvices due to closure or limited operating hours of facilities, and the economy, which can suffer great losses if businesses are not able to operate at full capacity. The areas of the economy that are most vulnerable are service oriented, recreation and entertainment, and tourist sectors.
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9.3.2 ESTIMATING POTENTIAL LOSSES
There is no way to adequately predict the loss of life, impacts to essential public services, or the economy as a result of an infectious disease outbreak or pandemic, particularly in the case of an emerging infectious disease (EID) or novel virus, where no vaccine exists, little is known about how the disease is spread, the virulence of the disease and how quickly it spreads, how to treat it, and who is at greatest risk.
9.3.3 CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACT
Researchers are studying the impacts of climate change on infectious disease. Loss of biodiversity, destruction of wildlands, and warming temperatures may all be contributing to the spread of infectious disease.
According to the CDC, c limate change, together with other natural and human- made health stressors, influences human health and disease in numerous ways. Some existing health threats will intensify, and new health threats will emerge. In the U.S., public health can be affected by disruptions of physical, biological, and ecological systems, including disturbances originating here and elsewhere. The health effects of these disruptions include increased respiratory and cardiovascular disease, injuries and premature deaths related to extreme weather events, changes in the prevalence and geographical distribution of food - and water-borne illnesses and other infectious diseases, and threats to mental health.
According to the World Health Organization, c limatic conditions strongly affect water-borne diseases and diseases transmitted through insects, snails , or other cold -blooded animals.
Changes in climate are likely to lengthen the transmission seasons of important vector -borne diseases and to alter their geographic range. Malaria is strongly influenced by climate.
Transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes, malaria kills over 400 ,000 people every year – mainly children under 5 years old in certain African countries. The Aedes mosquito vector of dengue is also highly sensitive to climate conditions, and studies suggest that climate change is likely to continue to increase exposure to dengue.
While developing nations are more vulnerable to many of these diseases than the United States or the City of Pomona, all populations will be affected by climate change.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 10: Goals and Objectives
10 Goals and Objectives
10.1 INTRODUCTION
One of the steps in preparing the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan pursuant to the Disaster Management Act of 2000 is consideration of the City's mission in hazard planning and related goals and objectives. The mission establishes the overarching guiding principle, whereas goals are broad statements of intent and objectives provide direction on actions to achieve the goal.
The mission, goals, and objectives were based on the hazard and risk analysis along with input from the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and community members.
10.2 MISSION STATEMENT
The City of Pomona's mission for the LHMP is to:
Establish a comprehensive strategy of programs, development regulations, and cost-effective improvement projects to protect citizens , critical facilities, infrastructure, private property, and the environment from local hazards.
The goals and objectives specified below together serve as the framework for formulating the LHMP mitigation strategy, thereby linking the mission statement to the action plan.
10.3 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FRAMEWORK
PROTECT LIFE AND PROPERTY
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses.
- Objective 1.1.1: Increase the resilience of institutions, services, and lifeline systems that are essential to Pomona' s functioning.
- Objective 1.1.2: Increase the ability of the City government to serve the community during and after events through response, recovery, and rebuilding. - Objective 1.1.3: Recognize the potential for greater impacts to vulnerable populations and overcrowded neighborhoods in emergency response and mitigation planning.
- Objective 1.1.4: Continue to utilize the emergency management system to provide City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 10: Goals and Objectives
early warning of and response to all life-threatening hazards that can be predicted, such as earthquakes, floods, landslides, severe storms, wildfires, and hazardous materials incidents.
• Goal 1.2: Protect Pomona's unique character and values from being compromised by hazard events.
- Objective 1.2.1: Encourage and support the long -term protection of historic and architecturally significant structures to preserve neighborhood and community character.
- Objective 1.2.2: Implement mitigation that effectively addresses the hazard potential while preserving unique historical values.
- Objective 1.2.3: Support the long-term protection of Pomona's neighborhoods by reducing the potential impact to structures from hazard events.
• Goal 1.3: Minimize losses to existing property and reduce potential for damage to future development.
- Objective 1.3.1: Coordinate land use plans and regulations to direct development away, or buffer development from, area and site-specific hazards. - Objective 1.3.2: Continue maintenance programs, such as site inspection and trash/debris removal, to reduce the potential for wildfire and other problems. - Objective 1.3.3: Encourage insurance coverage for earthquake events. - Objective 1.3.4: Ensure that new buildings and substantial improvements to existing buildings are governed by and incorporate all appropriate building codes and construction measures to protect them against failure of damage. - Objective 1.3.5: Implement a program to mitigate the hazards posed by older unreinforced masonry buildings largely clustered in the downtown area. - Objective 1.3.6: Avoid localized hazards and associated risks to property and people by implementing appropriate improvements, such as construction of stormwater drainage improvements for localized flooding and slope stabilization measures for localized landslide conditions.
- Objective 1.3.7: Avoid localized flooding problems by construction of appropriate storm water drainage improvements.
PUBLIC AWARENESS
• Goal 2.1: Develop and implement education and outreach programs to increase public awareness of the risks associated with local hazards.
- Objective 2.1.1: Prioritize community education and outreach in hazard mitigation planning.
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Chapter 10: Goals and Objectives
- Objective 2.1.2: Develop targeted education and outreach programs to segments of the community that are most at-risk to hazards events. - Objective 2.1.3: Encourage the distribution of information to residents, businesses, and public employees on safety and health precautions to take in advance of and during a disaster.
- Objective 2.1.4: Utilize local organizations and community partners in preparedness training
and post-disaster assistance.
- Objective 2.1.5: Advise and assist residents and businesses in taking appropriate mitigation steps to protect their properties.
- Objective 2.1.6: Aid both the private and public sectors in understanding the risks they may be exposed to and finding mitigation strategies to reduce those risks.
NATURAL SYSTEMS
• Goal 3.1: Balance natural resource management and land use planning with local hazard mitigation to protect life, property, and the environment. - Objective 3.1.l: Preserve, rehabilitate, and enhance natural systems to serve hazard mitigation functions where possible, recognizing the built-out character of the City. - Objective 3.1.2: Minimize potential negative environmental impacts from mitigation efforts.
PARTNERSHIPS AND IMPLEMENTATION
• Goal 4.1: Encourage and support leadership within Pomona to promote and implement local hazard mitigation activities.
- Objective 4.1.1: Strengthen communication and coordination with public agencies, citizens, non- profit organizations, business, and industry to ensure support for implementation.
- Objective 4.1.2: Provide information on t ools, partnership opportunities, and funding resources to assist in implementing mitigation activities. - Objective 4.1.3: Continue developing and strengthening interjurisdictional coordination and cooperation in the area of emergency services and post -disaster response programs.
- Objective 4.1.4: Maintain partnerships with facil ities and institutions with populations that are particularly vulnerable to risks associated with local hazards, including emergency planning and post-disaster contingency plans. - Objective 4.1.5: Coordinate with utility and transportation providers to establish and maintain early warning systems.
- Objective 4.1.6: Periodically review and update the Local Hazards Mitigation Plan, taking into consideration new hazards in formation, changes in vulnerabilities and critical facilities, and advancements in emergency response and post -disaster City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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services.
EMERGENCY SERVICES
• Goal 5.1: Ensure continued operations when the City is impacted by local hazard events. - Objective 5.1.1: Prioritize funding and implementation schedules for improvements needed to ensure continuous and extensive emergency response capabilities. - Objective 5.1.2: Strengthen emergency operations by increasing collaboration and coordination among public agencies, non -profit organizations, business, and industry.
- Objective 5.1.3: Coordinate and integrate local hazard mitigation activities, where appropriate, with emergency operations plans and procedures. - Objective 5.1.4: Continue providing emergency services with training and equipment to address all identified hazards.
- Objective 5.1.5: Distribute resources for emergency response around the City to ensure accessibility.
- Objective 5.1.6: Conduct periodic emergency preparedness drills involving City staff and emergency services, other emergency service providers, critical facilities, utility operators, community partners, and institutions with vulnerable populations.
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11 Mitigation Action Plan
11.1 INTRODUCTION
Risks associated with natural hazards in Pomona are reduced through a variety of programs implemented by federal, state, and local agencies and governments, including the City of Pomona. This chapter sets forth the mitigation action plan that the City is committed to implementing to reduce the potential for risks in the event of earthquake, landslide, wildfire, flooding, windstorm, or pandemic/infectious disease, and to maximize the effectiveness of the emergency response system to avoid injury, life loss, and property damage.
The mitigation actions represent the culmination of the research, mapping, analysis, and community outreach conducted for the LHMP. More specifically, the mitigation considers:
• Risks associated with critical facilities and community vulnerabilities that have been prioritized and ranked using a FEMA approved method;
• LHMP mission, goals and objectives as outlined in Chapter 10; and • Input from City staff and stakeholders and additional research conducted by the project team.
In the process of formulating the mitigation action plan, the Technical Advisory Committee reviewed a series of draft mitigation measures and provided feedback on cost -effectiveness, political will, technical feasibility, and environmental soundness. During this process the TAC helped to identify additional mitigation as well as improve the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed mitigation given Pomona's unique needs.
For each mitigation action, the following are documented:
• Local hazards addressed;
• Goals and objectives implemented - it should be noted that many of the mitigation actions are designed to achieve multiple goals and objectives; • FEMA ranking
• Lead department responsible;
• Funding source; and
• Implementation sc hedule. Mitigation actions currently underway are noted as appropriate. The City will continue to seek assistance through federal, state, and regional funding programs.
RANKING
The Mitigation Action Items were ranked using an approved FEMA method based upon the City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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following levels:
• Level 1 - Requires human resources, but not necessarily financial resources • Level 2 - Can be accomplished primarily by City staff, but requires financial resources, internal or external
• Level 3 - Requires external expertise/consultant and financial resources, internal or external
• Level 4 - Requires multiple entity/agency participation, environmental reviews, and external human and financial resources.
COST-EFFECTIVENESS ANALYSIS FOR MITIGATION
Cost effectiveness analysis is an important tool that the City will use to help prioritize mitigation actions. This process will assist in identifying those actions that maximize risk reduction with efficient expenditure of public funds. Appendix D contains the guidelines for cost effectiveness analysis that the City will follow.
MITIGATION STRATEGY
Pomona uses various City Codes, State Building Codes, State Fire Codes and zoning to promote the best practices in mitigation for the community. The City has already seen that these strategies have had a dramatic reduction in the risk of flooding and wildfire to the community. The City has also seen that a review of building codes after an event and implementing new policies and codes has also reduced the risk to the community for landslides. Recent interest in improving the downtown area has had a significate impact in reducing and mitigating hazards in older historical buildings that populate the downtown area.
The City has designated the Safety & Emergency Management Officer as the Hazard Mitigation Coordinator and a Technical Advisory Committee to steer LHMP implementation. The Coordinator will be responsible for:
• Overseeing implementation of the LHMP.
• Preparing an Annual Report to the City Council in coordination with the Technical Advisory Committee that details mitigation action items to implement in the upcoming year, including cost estimates, cost/benefit or cost -effectiveness analyses (see Appendix D), and recommendations for items to include in the City's Capital Improvement Program. • Updating the LHMP every five years in coordination with the Technical Advisory Committee by evaluating the cost effectiveness of mitigation implementation, addressing changes in critical facilities and vulnerabilities, incorporating advancements in emergency response and post disaster services, and updating hazard and risk assessments as new information becomes available. This includes incorporating new data from federal, state, or regional hazard mapping and delineation efforts.
• Establishing and maintaining the roster for the Technical Advisory Committee, calling City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 11: Mitigation Action Plan
meetings, and preparing agendas and necessary information materials for meetings.
The Technical Advisory Committee will be comprised of representatives of City departments involved in LHMP implementation, representatives of critical and vulnerable facilities, and community stakeholders involved in emergency preparedness and response. In addition to the roles in the Annual Report and LHMP F ive-Year Updates noted above, the Technical Advisory Committee will provide input on community education efforts.
ORGANIZATION OF MITIGATION ACTION ITEMS
The Mitigation Action Items listed in Section 11.3 are organized by the following purpose categories:
• LHMP Implementation Structure
• Ready Critical Facilities and Emergency Services
• Community Preparedness and Education
• Resilient Housing, Neighborhoods and Commercial Districts • Risk Reduction for Community Vulnerabilities
• Development Planning and Regulatory Framework
• City Emergency Operation Plan (EOP) and Standardized Emergency Management Systems (SEMS) Planning and Training
11.2 EXISTING MITIGATION ACTIVITIES
11.2.1 EXISTING EARTHQUAKE MITIGATION ACTIVITIES
Existing mitigation activities include current mitigation programs and activities that are being implemented by various levels of government, as well as private and educational organizations.
CITY OF POMONA CODES
Implementation of earthquake mitigation policy most often takes place at the local government level. The City of Pomona Department of Building and Safety enforces building codes pertaining to earthquake hazards. Currently, the City of Pomona uses the California Building Code (CBC) of 2019 as its standard for minimum design and construction standards of new buildings. This most recent code was adopted in 2020 and included the adoption of updated seismic safety standards.
The City of Pomona Planning Department enforces the zoning and land use regulations relating to earthquake hazards. The policy of the City is to reduce unacceptable levels of seismic risk by controlling land use and building design in known fault zones and upon soils that may fail under seismic activity. This policy does not directly regulate specific land uses but leaves final approval of projects to the proper decision -making body, based on information from recommended City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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geologic studies, and environmental impact reports, when required.
CALIFORNIA EARTHQUAKE MITIGATION LEGISLATION
Threats resulting from earthquakes have been well documented in California. Dating back to the 19th century, Californians have been killed, injured, and lost property as a result of earthquakes.
As the State’s population continues to grow, and urban areas become even more densely built up, the risk will continue to increase. For decades the Legislature has passed laws to strengthen the built environment and protect the citizens. Table 11-1 provides a sampling of some of the 200 plus laws in the State's codes.
Hospitals
The Alfred E. Alquist Hospital Seismic Safety Act (Hospital Act) was enacted in 1973 in response to the magnitude 6.6 Sylmar Earthquake in 1971, when four major hospital campuses were severely damaged and evacuated. Two hospital buildings collapsed killing 47 people. Three others were killed in another hospital that nearly collapsed.
In approving the Act, the Legislature noted that:
“Hospitals, that house patients who have less than the capacity of normally healthy persons to protect themselves, and that must be reasonably capable of providing services to the public after a disaster, shall be designed and constructed to resist, insofar as practical, the forces generated by earthquakes, gravity and winds (Health and Safety Code Section 1 29680).”
When the Hospital Act was passed in 1973, the State anticipated that, based on the regular and timely replacement of aging hospital facilities, the majority of hospital buildings would be in compliance with the Act's standards within 25 years. However, hospital buildings were not, and are not, being replaced at that anticipated rate. In fact, the great majority of the States urgent care facilities are now more than 40 years old.
Table 11-1: Partial List of California Laws on Earthquake Safety
CODE SECTION DESCRIPTION
Government Code Section 8870- 8870.95: Creates Seismic Safety Commission.
Government Code Section 8876.1 - 8776.10:
Established the California Center for
Earthquake Engineering Research.
Public Resources Code Section 2800 - 2804.6: Authorized a prototype earthquake prediction system along the central San Andreas fault
near the City of Parkfield.
Public Resources Code Section 2810 – 2815: Continued the Southern California Earthquake Preparedness Project and the Bay Area
Regional Earthquake Preparedness Project.
Health and Safety Code Section 16100 – The Seismic Safety Commission and State City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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16110: Architect will develop a state policy on
acceptable levels of earthquake risk for new
and existing state-owned buildings.
Government Code Section 8871- 8871.5: Established the California Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1986.
Health and Safety Code Section 130000 -
130025:
Defined earthquake performance standards
for hospitals.
Public Resources Code Section 2805 – 2808: Established the California Earthquake Education Project.
Government Code Section 8899.10 - 8899.16: Established the Earthquake Research Evaluation Conference.
Public Resources Code Section 2621 – 2630
2621:
Established the Alquist -Priolo Earthquake
Fault Zoning Act.
Government Code Section Public 8878.50 -
8878.52 8878.50:
Created the Earthquake Safety and Public
Buildings Rehabilitation Bond Act of 1990.
Education Code Section 35295 - 35297 35295: Established emergency procedure systems in kindergarten through grade 12 in all the public
or private schools.
Health and Safety Code Section 19160-19169: Established standards for seismic retrofitting of unreinforced masonry building.
Health and Safety Code Section 1596.80 -
1596.879:
Required all child day care facilities to
include an Earthquake Preparedness Checklist
as an attachment to their disaster plan.
The magnitude 6.7 Northridge Earthquake in 1994 caused $3 billion in hospital -related damage and evacuations. Twelve hospital buildings constructed before the Act were cited (red tagged) as unsafe for occupancy after the earthquake. Those hospitals that had been built in accordance with the 1973 Hospital Act were very successful in resisting structural damage. However, nonstructural damage (for example, plumbing and ceiling systems) was still extensive in those post-1973 buildings.
Senate Bill 1953 ("SB 1953"), enacted in 1994 after the Northridge Earthquake, expanded the scope of the 1973 Hospital Act. Under SB 1953, all hospitals are required, as of January 1, 2 008, to survive earthquakes without collapsing or posing the threat of significant loss of life. The 1994 Act further mandates that all existing hospitals be seismically evaluated, and retrofitted, if needed, by 2030, so that they are in substantial compliance with the Act (which requires that the hospital buildings be reaso nably capable of providing services to the public after disasters). SB 1953 applies to all urgent care facilities (including those built prior to the 1973 Hospital Act) and affects approximately 2,500 buildings on 475 campuses.
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BUSINESSES/PRIVATE SECTOR
Natural hazards have a devastating impact on businesses. In fact, of all businesses which close following a disaster, more than forty-three percent never reopen, and an additional twenty-nine percent close for good within the next two years 60. The Institute of Business and Home Safety has developed “Open for Business ", which is a disaster planning toolkit to help guide businesses in preparing for and dealing with the adverse effects of natural hazards. The kit integrates protection from natur al disasters into the company's risk reduction measures to safeguard employees, customers, and the investment itself. The guide helps businesses secure human and physical resources during disasters and helps to develop strategies to maintain business continuity before, during, and after a disaster occurs.
EARTHQUAKE EDUCATION
Earthquake research and education activities are conducted at several major universities in the Southern California region, including Cal Tech, USC, UCLA, UCI, and UCSB. The local clearing house for earthquake information is the Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC), located at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, Telephone: (213) 740 -5843, Fax: (213) 740-0011, Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.scec.org. The SCEC is a community of scientists and specialists who actively coordinate research on earthquake hazards at nine core institutions and communicate earthquake information to the public. The SCEC is a National Science Foundation (NSF) Science and Technology Center and is co -funded by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
In addi
tion, Los Angeles County along with other Southern California counties sponsors the Emergency Survival Program (ESP), an educational program for learning how to prepare for earthquakes and other disasters. Many school districts have very active emergency preparedness programs that include earthquake drills and periodic disaster response team exercises.
Proposed Earthquake Mitigation Action Items
The earthquake mitigation action items provide guidance on suggesting specific activities that agencies, organizations, and residents in the City of Pomona can undertake to reduce risk and prevent loss from earthquake events. Each action item is followed b y ideas for implementation, which can be used by the steering committee and local decision makers in pursuing strategies for implementation. The City of Pomona proposes the following earthquake mitigation action items as detailed in Section 11.3:
• Mitigation Action 2.3: Reinforcement of Other City Facilities • Mitigation Action 2.5: Aging Water and Sewer Infrastructure Replacement
60 Institute for Business and Home Safety Resources. August 2021.
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• Mitigation Action 4.1: Unreinforced Masonry Buildings • Mitigation Action 4.2: Vulnerable Building Reinforcement • Mitigation Action 4.3: Valuing Heritage
• Mitigation Action 4.5: Expanded Code Enforcement in Overcrowded Neighborhoods
11.2.2 EXISTING LANDSLIDE MITIGATION ACTIVIES
LANDSLIDE BUILDING AND ZONING CODES
The City of Pomona Development Code addresses development on steep slopes in subsection 580I0 concerning development for hillside properties. These sections outline standards for areas with median slopes of 10 percent or more before grading. Generally, the ordinance requires larger lot sizes based on slope percentage, as is indicated in Table 11-2. The ordinance also allows for building design to accommodate the site, landscaping to protect against erosion, drainage, and controls for excavations and grading. The Hillside provisions also allow for a Hillside Advisory Review Committee to review development plans in hillside areas.
Table 11-2: Minimum Lot Sizes in Residential Hillside Areas GRADE OF SLOPE (PERCENT) MINIMUM LOT SIZE (SQ. FT.)
0 - 10 7,200
10 - 30 10,000
30 - 40 20,000
40 or more 1 acre
Source: City of Pomona Zoning Ordinance, 1971-1972; revised 2010
Proposed Landslide Mitigation Action Items
The City of Pomona proposes the following landslide mitigation action items as detailed in Section 11.3:
• Mitigation Action 4.6: Landslide Prevention
• Mitigation Action 4.7: Landslide Prevention Development Standards
11.2.3 EXISTING WILDFIRE MITIGATION ACTIVITIES
Existing mitigation activities include current mitigation programs and activities that are being implemented by county, regional, state, or federal agencies or organizations.
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LOCAL PROGRAMS
In Southern California there are dozens of independent local fire departments as well as large county wide consolidated fire districts. Although each district or department is responsible for fire related issues in specific geographic areas, they work together to keep Southern California residents safe from fire. Although fire agencies work together to fight urban/wildland interface fires, each separate agency may have a somewhat different set of codes to enforce for mitigation activities.
In Pomona, fire protection is provided by the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The Fire Department not only provides response to fire emergencies, but also provides fire prevention, brush clearance, and education programs.
FIRE CODES
Developments within high fire threat are subject to the City of Pomona Zoning Ordinance and the California Building Code. These codes require buildings to incorporate fire resistant materials, maintain setbacks between buildings, and maintain landscaping and clear fire hazard brush. Both the Zoning Ordinance and the Building Code are subject to regular updates.
FEDERAL PROGRAMS
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Programs
FEMA is directly responsible for providing fire suppression assistance grants and, in certain cases, major disaster assistance and hazard mitigation grants in response to fires. The role of FEMA in the wildland/urban interface is to encourage comprehensive disaster preparedness plans and programs, increase the capability of state and local governments, and provide for a greater understanding of FEMA programs at the federal, state and local levels. 61 Fire Suppression Assistance Grants
Fire Suppression Assistance Grants may be provided to a state with an approved hazard mitigation plan for the suppression of a forest or grassland fire that threatens to become a major disaster on public or private lands. These grants are provided to protect life and improved property and encourage the development and implementation of viable multi-hazard mitigation measures and provide training to clarify FEMA's programs. The grant may include funds for equipment, supplies and personnel. A Fire Suppression Assistance Grant is the form of assistance most often provided by FEMA to a state for a fire. The grants are cost-shared with states. FEMA’s US Fire Administration (USFA) provides public education materials addressing wildland/urban interface issues and the USFA’s National Fire Academy provides training programs.
61 Source: National lnteragency Fire Center. Boise ID and California Division of Forestry, Riverside Fire Lab.
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National Wildland/Urban Interface Fire Protection Program Federal agencies can use the National Wildland/Urban Interface Fire Protection Program to focus on wildland/urban interface fire protection issues and actions. The Western Governors' Association (WGA) can act as a catalyst to involve state agencies, as well as local and private stakeholders, with the objective of developing an implementation plan to achieve a uniform, integrated national approach to hazard and risk assessment and fire prevention and protection in the wildland/urban interface. The program helps states develop viable and comprehensive wildland fire mitigation plans and performance-based partnerships.
Proposed Wildfire Mitigation Action Items
The City of Pomona proposes the following wildfire mitigation action items as detailed in Section
11.3:
• Mitigation Action 2.3: Reinforcement of Other City Facilities • Mitigation Action 2.5: Aging Water and Sewer Infrastructure Replacement • Mitigation Action 4.4: Reduced Wildfire Threat
11.2.4 EXISTING FLOOD MITIGATION ACTIVITIES
Flood mitigation activities listed here include current mitigation programs and activities that are implemented by the City of Pomona or other agencies.
FLOOD MANAGEMENT PROJECTS
Flood management structures can assist in regulating flood levels by adjusting water flows upstream of flood-prone areas. There are four dams in the immediate vicinity of the City, holding a total roughly 30,000 acre -feet of water. Releases of water from the impoundments are designed to protect the City of Pomona from high floodwaters. These facilities are:
• San Antonio Dam and Reservoir. 9,350 acre-feet (San Antonio and Chino Creeks); • Live Oak Reservoir. 2,500 acre-feet (Live Oak)
62 • Puddingstone Dam and Reservoir. 17,400 acre-feet (Walnut Creek); and • Thompson Creek Dam and Reservoir. 812 acre-feet (Cobal, Williams, Palmer, Padua, and Thompson Creeks). 63
62 City of Pomona. Materials Recovery Facility Draft Environmental Impact Report. April 1996. 63 Los Angeles County Department of Public Works. Hydrologic Report 1996-1997.
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STORMWATER SYSTEMS
Pomona has an extensive storm drainage network to prevent flooding by conveying water off the streets and into drainage channels. Its existing drainage system is an urban network that generally consists of curbside catch basins, inlet structures, and manholes connected by reinforced concrete laterals and main lines, draining into storm drain channels. The City has approximately 30 miles of drainage pipes and 300 miles of streets that are designed to withstand a 100-year storm event.
Storm water runoff is transported via this network to five major channels. These channels are lined with concrete and designed to accommodate a 200-year storm event:
64 • San Antonio Creek and Flood Control Channel . Located along the westerly and southwesterly limits of the City, it connects to Chino Creek going south; • Chino Creek. Located along the southerly portion of the city in the Puente Hills, it joins to San Antonio Creek further south;
• Thompson Creek. Runs from north to south through the northern portion of the City, it bends westward and becomes North San Jose Creek;
• North San Jose Creek. Located in the western part of the City, it drains to the Whittier Narrows; and
• South San Jose Creek. Parallel to and south of North San Jose Creek in the western portion of the City, stalling from the Corona Expressway and going southwest; drains to the Whittier Narrows.65
DAM EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Due to the potential severity of dam failures, FEMA requires that all dam owners develop Emergency Action Plans (EAP) for warning, evacuation, and post -flood actions. Plans have been established by the USACE and MWD to protect residents and businesses of the affected area in case of dam failures.
NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM (NFIP)
The City of Pomona actively promotes the public participation in the National Flood Insurance Program at every opportunity. City Code Section 18 -600 Flood Plain Management was enacted in 2006 to address the requirements of the NFIP and to mitigate the Flood Hazard in the City of Pomona.
64 City of Pomona. Master Environmental Assessment. 1994. 65 Ahmad Ansaru. City of Pomona P.E., Assistant City Engineer. Written communication. February 6, 2004.
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Proposed Flooding Mitigation Action Items
The City of Pomona proposes the following wildfire mitigation action items as detailed in Section
11.3:
• Mitigation Action 2.6: Localized Flood Control Improvements
11.2.5 EXISTING WINDSTORM MITIGATION ACTIVITIES
As stated, one of the most common problems associated with windstorms is power outage. High winds can cause trees to bend, sag, or fail (tree limbs or entire trees), coming into contact with nearby distribution 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.
CALIFORNIA CODE
One of the strongest and most widespread existing mitigation strategies pertains to tree clearance. Currently, California State Law requires utility companies to maintain specific clearances depending on the type of voltage running through the line - between electric power lines and all vegetation.
The following California Public Resource Code Sections establish tree pruning regulations:
66 • 4293: Power Line Clearance Required 4292: Power Line Hazard Reduction • 4291: Reduction of Fire Hazards Around Buildings
• 4171: Public Nuisances
The following pertain to tree pruning regulations and are taken from the California Code of Regulations:
• Title 14: Minimum Clearance Provisions
• Sections 1250-1258
• General Industry Safety Orders
• Title 8: Group 3: Articles 12, 13, 36, 37, 38
• California Penal Code Section 385
Finally, the following California Public Utilities Commission section has additional guidance:
• California Public Utilities Commission
• General Order 95: Rule 35
66 www.cpuc.ca.gov/js.asp
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Failure to allow a utility company to comply with the law 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.
The power companies, in compliance with the above regulations, collect data about tree failures and their impact on power lines. This mitigation strategy assists the power company in preventing future tree failure. From the collection of this data, the power company can advise residents as to the most appropriate vegetative planting and pruning procedures.
Proposed Windstorm Mitigation Action Items
The City of Pomona proposes the following windstorm mitigation action items as detailed in Section 11.3:
• Mitigation Action 2.8: Build and Retrofit Public Buildings and Critical Facilities • Mitigation Action 4.2: Vulnerable Building Reinforcement
11.2.6 EXISTING PANDEMIC/INFECTIOUS DISEASE MITIGATION ACTIVITIES Pandemic/infectious disease outbreaks have the potential to impact not only human lives, but the economic and governing stability of cities. The City of Pomona implemented the following policies in 2007 to protect City staff in the event of an infectious disease outbreak to ensure that City services can be maintained:
• Safety Policy Bloodborne Pathogens
• Safety Policy Respiratory Protection
• Safety Policy Tuberculosis Exposure
These policies were adopted to minimize exposure and outline procedures for reporting and seeking proper treatment following an exposure event.
Proposed Pandemic/Infectious Disease Mitigation Action Items Due to the COVID 19 pandemic, several measures were adopted in addition to the policies listed above to protect City employees, and additional measures were implemented to protect vulnerable populations, and the economic interests in the City. These mitigations are proposed for inclusion in this LHMP in the event of a future pandemic/infectious disease outbreak:
• Mitigation Action 2.7 City Employee Protection
• Mitigation Action 4.8 Business Community Protection
• Mitigation Action 5.1 Vulnerable Population Services
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11.3 MITIGATION ACTION ITEMS
LHMP IMPLEMENTATION STRUCTURE
Mitigation Action 1.1: Implementation Options for Hazard Mitigation Secure necessary funding for implementation of hazard mitigation actions as follows:
• Allocate City resources and assistance for hazard mitigation projects, using available City resources efficiently and with consideration of cost-effectiveness analysis; • Identify and seek grant programs and foundations that may support mitigation activities; and • Partner with other government agencies, special districts, utility providers, and organizations involved in hazard mitigation and emergency preparedness and response to pursue grants and special funding programs.
Lead Department: Development Services, Public Works, or Water Resources, depending on the project
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; apply for grants on an annual basis Hazards Addressed: All Hazards
Funding Source: General fund, and federal, state, and regional grants Rank: Level 1
Goals and Objectives Implemented: All
READY CRITICAL FACILITIES AND EMERGENCY SERVICES
Mitigation Action 2.1: Integrity of Emergency Operation Center Mainta
in the system of the Emergency Operation Center (Brackett Airport in the City of Laverne, at the Pomona Police Department Hanger) with alternative back -up faci lities to be activated in
the event the central facility is impaired. Because emergency service response times will decrease if back-up locations must be activated, maximize resiliency of the Central Emergency Operations Facility.
Lead De
partments: Risk Management
Implementation Schedule: 2022 on schedule
Hazards Addressed: All Hazards
Funding Source: General Fund
Rank: Level 3
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses by maximizing emergency preparedness capabilities (Objectives
1.1.1, 1.1.2, 1.1.4).
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• Goal 5.1: Ensure continued operations when the City is impacted by local hazard events (Objectives 5.1.1, 5.1.3, 5.1.4).
Mitigation Action 2.2: Equip Back-up Emergency Operations Center Because the Emergency Operations Center and backup locations were previously clustered in the City center, activating the emergency response system could be impeded if the City center experienced extensive damage during a major earthquake. To ensure respon se capabilities, the City has designated and will work to equip a backup facility . The Pomona City Yard has been chosen because it is located outside of the City center, south of the I -10 freeway and outside of liquefaction zones.
Lead Department: Risk Management
Implementation Schedule: Complete in 2022
Hazards Addressed: All Hazards
Funding Source: General fund
Rank: Level 2
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses by maximizing emergency preparedness capabilities (Objectives
1.1.1, 1.1.2, 1.1.4).
• Goal 5.1: Ensure continued operations when the City is impacted by local hazard events (Objectives 5.1.1, 5.1. 3, 5.1.4, 5.1.5).
Mitigation Action 2.3: Reinforcement of Historic City Facilities Conduct a structural assessment of City-owned properties that are on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, the list of California Historic Landmarks, or Pomona’s list of local significance, to identify buildings needing seismic safety improvements. Prioritize improvements according to 1) minimizing injury and life loss, 2) ensuring emergency services and response, 3) ensuring distribution of hazard resistant emergency facilities across the City to maximize emergency response and accessibility.
Lead Department: Development Services
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; review for available funds annually Hazards Addressed: Earthquake, Wildfire
Funding Source: General fund and grants
Rank: Level 3
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses by maximizing emergency preparedness capabilities (Objectives
1.1.1, 1.1.2, 1.1.3).
• Goal 5.1: Ensure continued operations when impacted by local hazard events (Objective City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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5.1.1).
Mitigation Action 2.4: Establish " Lifeline" Circulation System North-south circulation in Pomona could be significantly diminished in the event a long freight train is stranded on the Southern Pacific Railroad due to an earthquake or other hazard event.
North-south circulation could also be impaired by significant flooding in the railroad underpasses at White, Towne, and Garey Avenues or the associated bridge collapses d ue to an earthquake.
These scenarios are of particular concern given the location of the City's only hospital north of these potential obstructions and the majority of City population to the south, and require the following actions:
• In the next update of the General Plan Safety Element and the SEMS Plan, establish "Life- line" circulation system whereby special protocols are enacted to manage traffic flows on White, Towne, and Garey Avenues to ensure adequate north-south access for emergency vehicles. Establish alternative Life -line streets in the event these streets are obstructed, including completion of bridge if the Metrolink Gold Line is extended to Montclair; • Continue prioritizing maintenance of the pumps in the underpasses;
Lead Department: Development Services, Public Works
Implementation Schedule: Maintenance of pumps ongoing ; update to Safety Element General Plan to address evacuation routes to follow the adoption of this LHMP update Hazards Addressed: All Hazards
Funding Source: General fund and grants
Rank: Level 4
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses by maximizing emergency preparedness capabilities (Objectives
1.1.1, 1.1.2, 1.1.4).
• Goal 5.1: Ensure continued operations when the City is impacted by local hazard events (Objective 5.1.3).
Mitigation Action 2.5: Aging Water and Sewer Infrastructure Replacement As an older City with the development in the City center dating back to the late 1800s - including the system of water wells and - pipelines portions of the City' s water and sewer infrastructure are in need of extensive maintenance and /or replacement. Older infrastructure is more prone to damage and service disrup tions during earthquake, with potential ramifications for public safety and firefighting capabilities. Continue to fund and prioritize water and sewer infrastructure improvements to reduce the potential for these hazard- related risks. Use the Sewer and Wat er Master Plans as the basis for the improvement schedule.
Lead Department: Water Resources
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; review for available funds annually Hazards Addressed: Earthquake, Wildfire
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 11: Mitigation Action Plan
Funding Source: General funds and grants
Rank: Level 3
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury. and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses by maximizing emergency preparedness capabilities (Objective
1.1.1).
• Goal 5.1: Ensure continued operations when the City is impacted by local hazard events (Objective 5.1.1).
Mitigation Action 2.6: Localized Flood Control Improvements While the City has an effective flood control system, several localized areas continue to be subject to storm -related flooding. These include underpasses at the intersections of Garey, Towne, and White Avenues and the Union Pacific Railroad tracks; East End Avenue, between Mission Boulevard and Grand Avenue; Ninth Street, between the Union Pacific Railroad tracks and East End Avenue; and cul -de-sacs bounded by SR -60, County Road, Garey Boulevard, and Reservoir Street.
Conduct a study of these localized flooding hazards and identify needed improvements.
Determine priority for implementation in part with cost -effectiveness analysis. Once the improvements are identified, consider options for requiring construction of the improvements as part of development projects if appropriate and feasible.
Lead Department: Public Works and Water Resources
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; 1 – 2 years to complete study Hazards Addressed: Flooding
Funding Source: 500k from General fund for pump and electrical improvements at Reservoir and 1st Street grade separation.
Rank: Level 3
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1 : Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses by maximizing emergency preparedness capabilities (Objective
1.1.1).
• Goal 5.1: Ensure continued operations when the City is impacted by local hazard events (Objective 5.1.1).
Mitigation Action 2.7: City Employee Protection
A pandemic or emerging infectious disease has the potential to severely disrupt City services.
During the COVID -19 pandemic, the City established protocols for safely continuing City operations during a pandemic or emerging infectious disease incident. Implement the following City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 11: Mitigation Action Plan
actions:
• Provide work from home opportunities
• Ensure field staff can work alone or use PPE and social distancing measures • Provide additional equipment and stagger staff shifts
Lead Department: Public Works, Water Resources
Implementation Schedule: This mitigation was implemented during the COVID19 pandemic and can be implemented as necessary in the event of a surge or a new infectious disease outbreak.
Hazards Addressed: Pandemic/Infectious Disease
Funding Source: General fund and available grant funds
Ranking: Level 2
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses (Objectives 1.1.1, 1.1.2).
• Goal 5.1 : Ensure continued operations when the City is impacted by local hazard events (Objectives 5.1.1, 5.1.4).
Mitigation Action 2.8: Build and Retrofit Public Buildings and Critical Facilities Public buildings and critical facilities should be constructed or retrofitted to be to the highest standard that is feasible. Improve roof coverings, anchor roof -mounted equipment, and avoid placing flag poles or antennas near buildings.
Lead Department: Public Works, Neighborhood Services, Development Services Implementation Plan: Ongoing, case -by-case basis when new facilities are constructed, or deficiencies are found in older facilities
Hazards Addressed: Windstorms
Funding Source: General fund and grant funds
Ranking: Level 3
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses (Objectives 1.1.1, 1.1.2).
• Goal 5.1 : Ensure continued operations when the City is impa cted by local hazard events (Objectives 5.1.1, 5.1.4).
COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS AND EDUCATION
Mitigation Action 3.1: Emergency Preparedness Campaigns City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 11: Mitigation Action Plan
Continue implementing customized campaigns to educate residents and businesses about appropriate emergency preparedness measures and what to do in the event of a disaster, using the following means of communication:
• Incorporation of special publications and inserts in the City's newsletter and other mailings such as utility bills;
• Traveling booths to set up in shopping centers, community centers, popular athletic fields, schools, and other activity centers;
• Information posted on website and social media;
• Media releases;
• Reports to City Council and City Commissions;
• Presentations to community organizations;
• Events such as the Police Department Open House, Child Safety Fair, and National Night Out; and
When designing and developing campaigns, give special attention to language, demographic, and cultural characteristics of the Pomona populati on to maximize effectiveness. Target vulnerable populations such as the elderly, poor, disabled, and non-English speakers.
Given the age of many Pomona homes and commercial structures, there should be frequent emphasis on insurance coverage and techniques to secure buildings to avoid seismically induced damage, including information on available assistance programs. Information should be periodically distributed about non- structural improvements to mitigate hazard risks, such as securing bookcases, filing cabinets, light fixtures, and similar objects that can cause injuries and block exits.
Lead Department: Police
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; events take place quarterly and annually Hazards Addressed: All Hazards
Funding Source: General fund
Rank: Level 2
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 2.1: Develop and implement education and outreach programs to increase public awareness of the risks associated with local hazards (Objectives 2.1.1 - 2.1.6). • Goal 4.1: Encourage and support leadership within Pomona to promote and implement local hazard mitigation activities (Objectives 4.1.1, 4.1.2, 4.1.4).
RESILIENT HOUSING, NEIGHBORHOODS AND COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS Mitigation Action 4.1: Unreinforced Masonry Buildings
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Continue requiring improvements to meet seismic safety standards for unreinforced masonry buildings when a change in use is proposed with tenant improvements.
Lead Department: Development Services
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; case-by-case as change of use projects are submitted to the City with tenant improvement plans.
Hazards Addressed: Earthquake
Funding Source: Development/permit fees
Rank: Level 1
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.2: Protect Pomona's unique character and values from being compromised by hazard events (Objectives 1.2.1, 1.2.2, 1.2.3).
• Goal 1.3: Minimize losses to existing property and reduce potential for damage to future development (Objectives 1.3.4, 1.3.5).
Mitigation Action 4.2: Vulnerable Building Reinforcement Much of the City was developed prior to current seismic standards. Older homes and buildings may require structural intervention to avoid significant damage in the event of a major earthquake or severe windstorm. In addition, the clusters of mobile homes in the City may need reinforcements such as foundation strappings. Structural interventions are often straightforward and cost -effective, such as bolting structures to foundations. Through community education campaigns, educate property owners about areas with structures potentially n eeding reinforcement, and provide technical assistance to property owners with vulnerable buildings to implement retrofit standards.
This action will be most effective when City building inspection staff are directed to prioritize identification and reinfo rcement of vulnerable buildings, are appropriately trained to detect vulnerable buildings and make reasonable, cost -efficient recommendations, and are consulted during formulation of community education campaigns.
Lead Department: Development Services
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; case-by-case as improvement plans are submitted to the City, and educational materials provided at the Development Services Department counter.
Hazards Addressed: Earthquake, Windstorm
Funding Source: General fund
Rank: Level 2
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.3: Minimize losses to existing property and reduce potential for damage to future development (Objectives 1.3.3, 1.3.4).
• Goal 2.1: Develop and implement education and outreach programs to increase City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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public awareness of the risks associated with natural hazards (Objectives 2.1.5, 2.1.6).
Mitigation Action 4.3: Valuing Heritage
Many of Pomona's designated historic buildings, as well as homes within the designated historic districts, do not meet seismic safety codes. Pomona's historic resources contribute greatly to local environment and culture and are tremendously valued by the community. Prioritize retrofitting City-owned historic structures and avoid demolition for the purpose of public safety.
Explore opportunities for federal and state grants for structural improvements to make City - owned buildings safer in lieu of demolition.
Lead Department: Development Services
Priority: Ongoing; annually review department budget and pursue grants Hazards Addressed: Earthquake
Funding Source: General fund and grants
Ranking: Level 3
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.2: Protect Pomona's unique character and values from being compromised by hazard events (Objectives 1.2.1, 1.2.2, 1.2.3).
Mitigation Action 4.4: Reduce Wildfire Threat
Continue existing programs to reduce risk of property damage and injury from wildfire, including:
• Citywide prohibition of new wood and wood shake roofing materials, and requirement of fire-resistant materials for re-roofing projects.
• Requirement of tile roofs in Phillips Ranch;
• Development of fire -resistant landscape program in coordination with Ganesha Hills homeowners; and
• County Fire Department weed abatement and brush clearance program.
Further measures to reduce the risks of wildfire include:
• Exploring options for further decreasing fire hazards through requirements established by ordinance in Ganesha Hills; and
• Limiting any increases in residential densities in wildfire hazard areas through appropriate land use policy applications in the General Plan Update.
Lead Department: Development Services, Fire Department
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; review department funds and resources for development of new ordinances. Review of re -roofing projects occur on case -by-case basis as projects are City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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submitted to the City.
Hazards Addressed: Wildfire
Funding Source: General fund and grants
Ranking: Level 4
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.3: Minimize losses to existing property and reduce potential for damage to future development (Objective 1.3.1).
• Goal 3.1: Balance natural resource management, and land use planning with local hazard mitigation to protect life, property, and the environment (Objective s 3.1.1, 3.1.2).
Mitigation Action 4.5: Expanded Code Enforcement in Overcrowded Neighborhoods In Pomona's overcrowded neighborhoods:
• Step up code enforcement efforts, with particular emphasis on remediation of illegally inhabited building spaces that increase risks of injury or life loss in the event of a major earthquake.
• Significantly increase fees for code violations pertinent to public health and safety, so that the fees serve as a deterrent; and
• Continue enforcing stiff fines imposed on homeowners and contractors implementing structural modifications without appropriate permits.
Lead Department: Development Services
Implementation Schedule: Implemented, and ongoing as r egular inspections are conducted, or complaints received
Hazards Addressed: Earthquakes
Funding Source: General fund and code violation fees
Ranking: Level 1
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses by maximizing emergency preparedness capabilities. (Objective
1.1.3).
• Goal 1.3: Minimize losses to existing property and reduce potential for damage to future development (Objective 1.3.4).
Mitigation Action 4.6: Landslide Prevention
Prioritize routine maintenance and repairs of water, sewer, and irrigation lines in and around landslide prone areas to avoid long -term leaks that saturate and de -stabilize earth materials to point of dangerous and destructive landslides.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Lead Department: Water Resources, Community Services, Public Works Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; irrigation lines inspected on quarterly basis Hazards Addressed: Landslide
Funding Source: General fund
Ranking: Level 2
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 3.1: Balance natural resource management, and land use planning with local hazard mitigation to protect life, property, and the environment (Objectives 3.1.1, 3.1.2).
Mitigation Action 4.7: Landslide Prevention Development Standards Revise the City Grading Ordinance and development standards for hillside properties implemented through the " H" Overlay Zone to include best management practices for landslide prevention. Review the extent of pr operty subject to the overlay to ensure that all landslide potential areas are included and also continue applying the standards to all property meeting the requirements of "Hillside Area" as defined in Development Code Section 58010.
Lead Department: Development Services
Implementation Schedule: Zoning and Development Code currently undergoing update; completion expected by 2023.
Hazards Addressed: Landslide
Funding Source: General fund and grants
Ranking: Level 3
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.2: Protect Pomona's unique character and values from being compromised by hazard events (Objective 1.2.3).
• Goal 3.1: Balance natural resource management, and land use planning with local hazard mitigation to protect life, property, and the environment (Objectives 3.1.1, 3. 1.2).
Mitigation Action 4.8: Business Community Protection
During an infectious disease outbreak, businesses can become severely impacted and may require modified operations from what would normally be permitted. Additionally, the city may need to modify normal operations to ensure development applications can continue. To protect the local economy, the following actions should be taken to ensure business operations and development can continue:
• Wave temporary use/special event permit fees,
• Work with businesses to modify operations for social distancing, • Establish protocol for electronic submission of applications, City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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• Teleconferencing should be used in place of in person meetings whenever possible. • Provide information to businesses about grants for PPE.
Lead Department: Development Services
Implementation Schedule: This mitigation was implemented during the COVID19 pandemic and can be implemented as necessary in the event of a surge or a new infectious disease outbreak.
Hazards Addressed: Pandemic/Infectious Disease
Funding Source: General fund and available grant funds
Ranking: Level 1
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses (Objectives 1.1.1, 1.1.2).
• Goal 5.1: Ensure continued operations when the City is impacted by local hazard events (Objectives 5.1.2, 5.1.3, 5.1.4).
RISK REDUCTION FOR COMMUNITY VULNERABILITIES
Mitigation Action 5.1: Vulnerable Population Services
Vulnerable populations may be particularly impacted by a pandemic or infectious disease outbreak. The following mitigation can be implemented to reduce those impacts to the most vulnerable populations in the city:
• Employ eviction prevention programs,
• Provide emergency housing vouchers, rental assistance, and legal services, • Hold vaccination events in areas easily accessible by vulnerable populations, • Host zoom events for underprivileged children in the community.
Lead Department: Neighborhood Services
Implementation Schedule: This mitigation was implemented during the COVID19 pandemic and can be implemented as necessary in the event of a surge or a new infectious disease outbreak.
Hazards Addressed: Pandemic/Infectious Disease
Funding Source: General fund, and available grant funding including homeless prevention grants Ranking: Level 4
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses (Objectives 1.1.1, 1.1.2, 1.1.3). • Goal 2.1: Develop and implement education and outreach programs to increase public awareness of the risks associated with local hazards (Objectives 5.1.1, 5.1.2, 5.1.5).
DEVELOPMENT PLANNING AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 11: Mitigation Action Plan
Mitigation Action 6.1: General Plan and Development Code Update In the General Plan Update and associated Zoning Code amendments, integrate the hazards and risk assessment and mitigation in the new policy framework, with special attention to avoidance of new risks from proposed development, protection of environmental resources, appropriate level of public services and facilities, and circulation system effectiveness. As indicated in Section
1.4, t he Safety Element of the General Plan will be updated to address evacuation routes following the adoption of this LHMP update. Establish development policies that encourage and support redevelopment of aging building stock, consistent with community vision and goals.
Lead Department: Development Services
Implementation Schedule: Development Code update currently underway with completion expected in 2023. Complete General Plan update in the next 4-5 years.
Hazards Addressed: All Hazards
Funding Source: SB 2 grant and general fund
Ranking: Level 3
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses (Objective 1.1.3).
• Goal 1.2 : Protect Pomona’s unique character and values from being compromised by hazard events (Objectives 1.2.2, 1.2.3).
• Goal 1.3: Minimize losses to existing property and reduce potential for damage to future development (Objectives 1.3.1, 1.3 .4, 1.3.5,1.3.6).
• Goal 3.1: Balance natural resource management and land use planning with local hazard mitigation to protect life, property, and the environment (Objectives 3.1.1, 3.1.2).
Mitigation Action 6.2: Development Project Review for Natural Hazards Risks When reviewing proposals for new development and infrastructure improvement projects, identify any natural hazards that have the potential to impact the property. If current building and development codes do not adequately address identified natural hazard impacts associated with a specific project, require additional mitigation to be incorporated into the project. Include this requirement in all project review procedures.
Lead Department: Development Services
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; case-by-case basis as development projects are submitted to the City.
Hazards Addressed: All Hazards
Funding Source: User fees, permit fees, and environmental review fees Ranking: Level 1
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 11: Mitigation Action Plan
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses (Objective 1.1.3).
• Goal 1.2 : Protect Pomona’s unique character and values from being compromised by hazard events (Objectives 1.2.2, 1.2.3).
• Goal 1.3: Minimize losses to existing property and reduce potential for damage to future development (Objectives 1.3.1, 1.3 .4, 1.3.5,1.3.6).
• Goal 3.1: Balance natural resource management and land use planning with local hazard mitigation to protect life, property, and the environment (Objectives 3.1.1, 3.1.2).
CITY EMERGENCY OPERATION PLAN (EOP) AND STANDARDIZED EMERGENCY
MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (SEMS) PLANNING AND TRAINING
Mitigation Action 7.1: Pomona SEMS Plan
Continue to implement the Pomona SEMS Plan contained within the City’s EOP, which functions as the City's manual for communications protocol in the event of a disaster. Update as needed for consistency with the State SEMS Plan involving interagency communication protocols, and this LHMP. Mobile command center system recently purchased for the Emergency Operation Center.
Lead Department: Risk Management
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; review SEMS plan annually for consistency with State SEMS Plan.
Hazards Addressed: All Hazards
Funding Source: General plan and grants
Ranking: Level 1
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential injury, and economic damage residents and businesses by Emergency preparedness for life loss, to Pomona maximizing capabilities. (Objectives
1.1.2, 1.1.3, 1.1.4).
• Goal 2.1: Develop and implement education and outreach programs to increase public awareness of the risks associated with local hazards (Objectives 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.1.3, 2.1.4). • Goal 4.1: Encourage and support leadership within Pomona to promote and implement local hazard mitigation activities (Objectives 4.1.1, 4.1.3, 4.1.4, 4.1.5). • Goal 5.1: Ensure continued operations when the City is impacted by local hazard events (Objectives 5.1.2, 5.1.3).
Mitigation Action 7.2: Emergency Preparedness Drills
Pursuant to the City's Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), conduct emergency preparedness and response drills for mock major earthquake events, the natural hazard with the greatest potential City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Chapter 11: Mitigation Action Plan
for injury, loss life, property damage, and service interruptions. Drills should test disaster response systems and communication protocols. When preparing the drills, consider the wi de range of potential risks associated with critical facilities and vulnerabilities, such as interrupted service at Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center, street blockages from paused trains, major power service disruption, etc. Include representatives of City officials and staff, utility providers and the railroad operators, as well as trained community emergency response volunteers and emergency response stakeholders, and representatives of vulnerable facilities.
After the drill, analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the response effort and identify facility and infrastructure deficiencies contributing to response concerns. Use this information to inform priorities established in the LHMP Annual Report.
Lead Department: Risk Management
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing, on annual basis
Hazards Addressed: All Hazards
Funding Source: General plan and grants
Ranking: Level 4
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses by maximizing emergency preparedness capabilities (Objectives
1.1.1, 1.1.2, 1.1.3, 1.1.4).
• Goal 2.1: Develop and implement education and outreach programs to increase public awareness of the risks associated with local hazards (Objectives 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.1.3, 2.1.4). • Goal 4.1: Encourage and support leadership within Pomona to promote and implement local hazard mitigation activities (Objectives 4.1.1, 4.1. 3, 4.1.4, 4.1.5, 5.1.2, 5.1.3, 5.1.4,
5.1.6).
Mitigation Action 7.3: City Hall Life Safety Planning
Immediately following a disaster, community members will rely on City staff for assistance and direction. Part of the City's plan for maximizing emergency services must include taking care of staff's emergency needs so that they can function and serve the community. Without the ready services of City staff, the likelihood of hazard impacts to the community could increase.
Update City Hall Life Safety Preparedness Plan, conduct employee training, ensure that each department has complete first -aid kit, and hold emergency evacuation drills at City Hall on an annual basis. In addition, help staff establish reserve of personal emergency supplies, by buying kits at discounted prices and selling at- cost to staff or designating a team captain in each department to help individuals bring in appropriate kit.
Lead Department: Risk Management
Implementation Schedule: Ongoing; drills conducted annually and updates to Life Safety City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Preparedness Plan to occur as needed
Hazards Addressed: All Hazards
Funding Source: General fund and grants
Ranking: Level 2
Goals and Objectives Implemented:
• Goal 1.1: Reduce the potential for life loss, injury, and economic damage to Pomona residents and businesses by maximizing emergency preparedness capabilities (Objectives
1.1.1, 1.1. 2).
• Goal 5.1: Ensure continued operations when the City is impacted by local hazard events (Objectives 5.1.4, 5.1.6).
11.4 PROGRESS IN LOCAL MITIGATION EFFORTS
Several Mitigation Actions included in Section 11.3 , reflect actions that are ongoing as part of regular operations conducted by the City in an effort to mitigate or reduce the impacts of local hazards on the community. Some of these Mitigation Actions have been recently completed but may include some ongoing effort or additional component to complete in entirety. Additionally, some of the Mitigation Actions have been included that were implemented during the COVID 19 pandemic, that may be implemented if a future pandemic or infectious disease outbreak occurs in the City as necessary and based on relevance in a novel situation. The following Mitigation Actions reflect efforts that are ongoing as part of regular City operations:
• Mitigation Action 1.1: Implementation Options for Hazard Mitigation • Mitigation Action 2.3: Reinforcement of Historic City Facilities • Mitigation Action 2.4: Establish " Lifeline" Circulation System (component of this action is ongoing)
• Mitigation Action 2.5: Aging Water and Sewer Infrastructure Replacement • Mitigation Action 2.8: Build and Retrofit Public Buildings and Critical Facilities • Mitigation Action 3.1: Emergency Preparedness Campaigns • Mitigation Action 4.1: Unreinforced Masonry Buildings • Mitigation Action 4.2: Vulnerable Building Reinforcement • Mitigation Action 4.3: Valuing Heritage
• Mitigation Action 4.4: Reduce Wildfire Threat
• Mitigation Action 4.5: Expanded Code Enforcement in Overcrowded Neighborhoods • Mitigation Action 4.6: Landslide Prevention
• Mitigation Action 6.2: Development Project Review for Natural Hazards Risks • Mitigation Action 7.1: Pomona SEMS Plan
• Mitigation Action 7.2: Emergency Preparedness Drills
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• Mitigation Action 7.3: City Hall Life Safety Planning
The following Mitigation Action was completed during the preparation of this LHMP update:
• Mitigation Action 2.1: Integrity of Emergency Operation Center
The following Mitigation Actions were implemented during the COVID 19 pandemic and can be reinstated as necessary or relevant:
• Mitigation Action 2.7: City Employee Protection
• Mitigation Action 4.8: Business Community Protection
• Mitigation Action 5.1: Vulnerable Population Services City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix A: Public Participation Survey Materials and TAC Meeting Agendas
Appendix A:
Public Participation Survey Materials
& TAC Meeting Agendas
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Appendix A: Public Participation Survey Materials and TAC Meeting Agendas
PUBLIC SURVEY FLYER – ENGLISH AND SPANISH
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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PUBLIC SURVEY SOCIAL MEDIA POST
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1. Your Zip Code Answers varied and C
ommunity Name or Location Answers varied
2. Do you: ☐ Live or ☐ Work in Pomona?
3. If you live in Pomona, do you: ☐ Own or ☐ Rent?
2021 Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan Update Survey
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4. If you live in Pomona, how many years? Answers varied from 1 to 50 years.
5. If you have lived in Pomona for 5 years or more, have you or someone in your household directly experienced a natural disaster such as an earthquake, severe windstorm, flood, wildfire, or other type of natural disaster while in Pomona?
☐ Yes ☐ No (IF NO, skip to question 7)
6. If “YES”, which of these natural disasters have you or someone in your household experienced in the past five years? (Please check all that apply)
☐ Earthquake
☐ Floods, Dam Failure and Inundation Hazards
☐ Wildfire Hazards/Brush Fire
☐ Climate Change
☐ Severe Windstorm
☐ Landslide
☐ Pandemic
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix A: Public Participation Survey Materials and TAC Meeting Agendas
7. How do you get information? (Please check up to three)
☐ Newspaper stories/ads ☐ Mail/Utility Bill
☐ Television news/ads ☐ Fire Department
☐ Radio News/ads ☐ Fact sheet/Brochure
Internet: ☐ Library
☐ Email newsletters ☐ Public workshops/Meetings ☐ Online news outlets ☐ SMS text message
☐ City web site ☐ College/University/Schools
☐ Social media (e.g. Facebook, ☐ Outdoor advertisements (billboards) Twitter, Instagram, etc.) ☐ Other: ___________________
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8. How concerned are you about the following hazards?
Natural Disaster Very
Concerned
Somewhat
Concerned
Neutral Not Very
Concerned
Not
Concerned
Climate Change ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Severe Windstorm ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Flood, Dam Failure and
Inundation Hazards
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Wildfire Hazards/Brush
Fire
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Landslides ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Pandemic ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Earthquake ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
9. Planning ahead for responding to disasters can help lessen their impact. To help the City prioritize its disaster preparedness efforts, please tell us how important each of the following goals is to you.
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Goal Very
Important
Somewhat
Important
Neutral Not Very
Important
Not
Important
Protecting private property ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Protecting critical facilities
(hospitals, fire stations, etc.)
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Preventing development in
hazard areas
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Protecting the natural
environment
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Protecting historical/cultural
landmarks, museums, etc.
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Promoting cooperation
among public and private
organizations and citizens
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Protecting and reducing
damage to utilities
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Strengthening emergency
services (police, fire,
ambulance)
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Protecting major employers ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Protecting small businesses ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Protecting K-12 schools ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Protecting
Colleges/Universities
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
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10. Community assets are features, characteristics, or resources that either make a community unique or allow the community to function. Please rank the importance of protecting the following community assets:
Community Assets: Potential
Disaster Impact
Very
Important
Somewhat
Important
Neutral Not Very
Important
Not
Important
Human: Loss of life and/or
injuries
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Economic: Business closures
and/or job losses
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Infrastructure: Damage or loss of
bridges, utilities, schools, etc.
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Cultural Historic: Damage or loss
of libraries, museums,
fairgrounds, etc.
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Environmental: Damage or loss
of forests, rangeland, waterways,
etc.
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Governance: Ability to maintain
order and/or provide public
amenities and services
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
11. Have you taken any of the following steps to prepare for your household for potential disasters? Check all that apply.
☐ Purchased homeowners/renters insurance
☐ Purchased flood insurance
☐ Attended meetings or received written
information on natural disasters or
emergency preparedness
☐ Floodproofing (elevating furnace, water
heaters, electric panels
☐ Talked with family members about what to
do in case of a disaster or emergency
☐ Installed retrofits such as high impact
windows or doors to withstand high winds;
fire resistant siding roofing or window
☐ Developed a “Household/Family
Emergency Plan” in order to decide what
everyone would do in the event of a disaster
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix A: Public Participation Survey Materials and TAC Meeting Agendas
screens, etc.
☐ Installed/maintained firebreaks around the
home
☐ Prepared a “Disaster Supply Kit” (extra
food, water, batteries, medications, first aid,
etc.)
12. How would you rank the following strategies to address pre- and post-disaster damage? Strategy Very
Important
Somewhat
Important
Neutral Not Very
Important
Not
Important
Retrofit and strengthen
essential facilities such as
police, fire, emergency medical
services, hospitals, schools,
etc.
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Replace inadequate or
vulnerable bridges and
causeways
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Install or improve protective
structures, such as floodwalls
or levees
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Government buys flood-prone
properties and returns them to
a natural condition
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Assist property owners with
securing funding to mitigate
impacts to their property
caused by disasters
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Work on improving the damage
resistance of utilities
(electricity, communications,
water/wastewater facilities, etc.
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix A: Public Participation Survey Materials and TAC Meeting Agendas
13. Please feel free to provide any additional comments:
Strengthen City codes,
ordinances, and plans to
require high risk management
standards
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☒
Provide better information
about hazard risk and high-
hazard areas
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
Inform property owners of ways
they can prevent damage to
their properties
☐ ☐ ☐ ☐ ☐
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix A: Public Participation Survey Materials and TAC Meeting Agendas
Interwest Consulting Group
Contact: Chantal Power, AICP
Phone: 909-754-1653
E-mail: [email protected]
Technical Advisory Committee Interview Agenda—Neighborhood Services January 27, 2022
1. Discuss outstanding questions:
A. List of transitional housing and senior care facilities B. Information about Housing Division rental and mortgage assistance, housing and rehab and façade improvement programs
C. List of community centers and City Parks
D. YMCA
2. Discuss mitigation actions from previous Hazard Mitigation Plan A. Landslide prevention (5.6) - Community Services?
B. Stabilizing Ganesha Park slopes (5.8) - Community Services? C. Vulnerable population services (6.2) - New; this was added to the pandemic section of the update
3. Discuss any new mitigation actions that should be included in update, considering the following:
A. Projects already planned for—studies, funding, commencement, completion in the next 5 years (implementation schedule)
C. Funding
D. Hazard(s) addressed
E. Goals and objectives addressed
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix A: Public Participation Survey Materials and TAC Meeting Agendas
Interwest Consulting Group
Contact: Chantal Power, AICP
Phone: 909-754-1653
E-mail: [email protected]
Technical Advisory Committee Interview Agenda—Water Resources February 3, 2022
1. Discuss outstanding questions:
A. Retrofits since last HMP update
B. Mitigations implemented following 2003 report regarding structural stability of city reservoirs
C. City ground water wells
D. City reservoirs, and retrofits
2. Discuss mitigation actions from previous Hazard Mitigation Plan A. Implementation options for hazard mitigation (1.2)
B. Water reservoir seismic retrofit completion (2.5)
C. Aging water and sewer infrastructure replacement (2.6) D. City employee protection (2.9) - New; added for new pandemic section E. Landslide prevention (5.6)
3. Discuss any new mitigation actions that should be included in update, considering the following:
A. Projects already planned for studies, funding, commencement, completion in the next 5 years (implementation schedule)
C. Funding
D. Hazard(s) addressed
E. Goals and objectives addressed
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix A: Public Participation Survey Materials and TAC Meeting Agendas
Interwest Consulting Group
Contact: Chantal Power, AICP
Phone: 909-754-1653
E-mail: [email protected]
Technical Advisory Committee Interview Agenda—Public Works February 3, 2022
1. Discuss outstanding questions:
A. Retrofits since last HMP update
B. Mitigations implemented following 2003 Ganesha Park landslide report C. Wastewater diverted to JWPCP in Carson
D. Areas of flood concern
2. Discuss mitigation actions from previous Hazard Mitigation Plan A. Implementation options for hazard mitigation (1.2)
B. Establish “Lifeline” circulation system (2.4)
C. Localized flood control improvements (2.7)
D. City employee protection (2.9) - New; added for new pandemic section E. Landslide prevention (5.6)
3. Discuss any new mitigation actions that should be included in update, considering the following:
A. Completion of Goldline
B. Public Works/CIP projects already planned for studies, funding, commencement, completion in the next 5 years (implementation schedule)
C. Funding
D. Hazard(s) addressed
E. Goals and objectives addressed
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix A: Public Participation Survey Materials and TAC Meeting Agendas
Interwest Consulting Group
Contact: Chantal Power, AICP
Phone: 909-754-1653
E-mail: [email protected]
Technical Advisory Committee Interview Agenda—Water Resources February 7, 2022
1. Discuss outstanding questions:
A. Copy of SEMS Plan
2. Discuss mitigation actions from previous Hazard Mitigation Plan A. Mitigation Actions under outside agency authority (2.8 & 4.2) 1) Back-up medical services (2.8)
2) Community emergency volunteers
B. Coordinator and LHMP committee (1.1)
C. Integrity of emergency operation center system (2.1) D. Back-up emergency operations center (2.2)
E. Hazard mitigation partners (4.3)
F. Pomona SEMS Plan (8.1)
G. Emergency preparedness drills (8.2)
H. Decentralized emergency supplies and equipment (8.3) I. City Hall life safety planning (8.4)
3. Discuss any new mitigation actions that should be included in update, considering the following:
A. Projects already planned for studies, funding, commencement, completion in the next 5 years (implementation schedule)
C. Funding
D. Hazard(s) addressed
E. Goals and objectives addressed
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix A: Public Participation Survey Materials and TAC Meeting Agendas
Interwest Consulting Group
Contact: Chantal Power, AICP
Phone: 909-754-1653
E-mail: [email protected]
Technical Advisory Committee Interview Agenda—Development Services February 14, 2022
1. Discuss outstanding questions:
A. URM buildings in the City
B. URM City owned facilities
C. List of Historic Resources
D. Housing Element—overcrowded neighborhoods and soft-story multi-family housing E. Safety Element update pursuant to SB 99 and AB 747
F. Housing vs population growth number, percent of housing types, and vacancy rates G. Properties on National Register of Historic Places, Historic Landmarks, Pomona’s Landmark Register
H. Percent of City located in liquefaction zones
I. Construction date of facilities used during emergencies
2. Discuss mitigation actions from previous Hazard Mitigation Plan A. Implementation options for hazard mitigation (1.2)
B. Reinforcement of other City facilities (2.3)
C. Establish “Lifeline” circulation system (2.4)
D. Unreinforced masonry buildings (5.1)
E. Vulnerable buildings reinforced (5.2)
F. Valuing heritage (5.3)
G. Reduce wildfire threat (5.4)
H. Expanded Code Enforcement in overcrowded neighborhoods (5.5) I. Landslide prevention development standards (5.7)
J. Business community protection (5.9); New, added for pandemic hazards K. General Plan and Development Code update (7.1)
L. Development project review for natural hazards risks (7.2)
3. Discuss any new mitigation actions that should be included in update.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix A: Public Participation Survey Materials and TAC Meeting Agendas
Interwest Consulting Group
Contact: Chantal Power, AICP
Phone: 909-754-1653
E-mail: [email protected]
Technical Advisory Committee Interview Agenda—Police Department March 7, 2022
1. Discuss mitigation actions from previous Hazard Mitigation Plan A. Early Warning Systems and Local Consideration (3.1)
B. Emergency Preparedness Campaigns (4.1)
C. Accelerated Emergency Response for Vulnerable Populations (6.1)
2. Discuss any new mitigation actions that should be included in update.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix B: HAZUS Report
Appendix B:
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Appendix C: Resources Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
Appendix C:
Resource Directory &
Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
APPENDIX C: RESOURCE DIRECTORY
The Resource Directory, provided by the Disaster Management Area D Coordinator, provides contact information for local, regional, state, and federal programs that are currently involved in hazard mitigation activities. The Hazard Mitigation Action Committee may refer to the organizations on the following pages for resources and technical assistance. The Resource Directory provides a foundation for potential partners in action item implementation.
American Public Works Association
Level: National
Hazard: Multi
http://www.apwa.net
2345 Grand Boulevard, Suite 500, Kansas City, MO 64108-2641 Ph: 816.472.1610
Notes: The American Public Works Association is an international educational and professional association of public agencies, private sector companies, and individuals dedicated to providing high quality public works goods and services.
Association of State Floodplain Manager
Level: Federal
Hazard: Flood
www.floods.org
2809 Fish Hatchery Road, Madison WI 53713
Ph: 608.274.0123
Notes: The Association of State Floodplain Managers is an organization of professionals involved in floodplain management, flood hazard mitigation, the National Flood Insurance Program, and flood preparedness, warning and recovery
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
Building Seismic Safety Council (BSSC)
Level: National
Hazard: Earthquake
www.bssconline.org
1090 Vermont Avenue NW, Suite 700, Washington DC, 20005 Ph: 202.289.7800
Notes: The Building Seismic Safety Council (BSSC) develops and promotes building earthquak e risk mitigation regulatory provisions for the nation.
California Department of Transportation (Cal-Trans )
Level: State
Hazard: Multi
http://www.dot.ca.gov/
120 S. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Ph: 213.897.3656
Notes: CalTrans is responsible for the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of the California State Highway System, as well as that portion of the Interstate Highway System within the state's boundaries. Alone and in partnership with Amtrak, Caltrans is also invo lved in the support of intercity passenger rail service in California.
California Resources Agency
Level: State
Hazard: Multi
http://resources.ca.gov/
1416 Ninth Street, Suite 1331, Sacramento, CA 95814
Ph: 916.653.5656
Notes: The California Resources Agency restores, protects and manages the state's natural, historical and cultural resources for current and future generations using solutions based on science, collaboration and respect for all the communities and interests involved.
California Division of Forestry (CDF)
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
Level: State
Hazard: Multi
http://www.fire.ca.gov/php/index.php
210 W. San Jacinto, Perris, CA 92570
Ph: 909.940.6900
Notes: The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection protects over 31 million acres of California's privately-owned wildlands. CDF emphasizes the management and protection of California's natural resources.
California Division of Mines and Geology (DMG)
Level: State
Hazard: Multi
www.consrv.ca.gov/cgs/index.htm
801 K Street, MS 12-30, Sacramento, CA 95814
Ph: 916.445.1825
Note
s: The California Geological Survey devel -ops an
d disseminates technical information and
advice on California's geology, geologic hazards, and mineral resources.
California Environmental Resources Evaluation System (CERE S) Level: State
Hazard: Multi
http://ceres.ca.gov/
900 N. Street, Suite 250, Sacramento, CA 95814
Ph: 916.653.2238
Notes: CERES is an excellent website for access to environmental information and websites.
California Department of Water Resources (DWR)
Level: State
Hazard: Flood
http://www.dwr.water.ca.gov
1416 9th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
Ph: 916.653.6192
Notes: The Department of Water Resources manages the water resources of California in cooperation with other agencies, to benefit the State's people, and to protect, restore, and enhance the natural and human environments.
California Department of Conservation: Southern California Regional Office Level: State
Hazard: Multi
www.consrv.ca.gov
655 S. Hope Street, #700, Los Angeles, CA 90017-2321
Ph: 213.239.0878
Notes: The Department of Conservation provides services and information that promote environmental health, economic vitality, informed land-use decisions and sound management of our state's natural resources.
EPA, Region 9
Level: Regional
Hazard: Multi
http://epa.gov/region09
75 Hawthorne Street, San Francisco, CA 94105
Ph: 415.947.8000
Notes: The mission of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is to protect human health and to safeguard the natural environment through the themes of air and global climate change, water, land, communities and ecosystems, and compliance and environmental stewardship.
Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region IX
Level: Federal
Hazard: Multi
www.fema.gov
1111 Broadway, Suite 1200, Oakland, CA 94607
Ph: 510.627.7100
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
Notes: The Federal Emergency Management Agency is tasked with responding to, planning for, recovering from and mitigating against disasters.
Federal Emergency Management Agency, Mitigation Division Level: Federal
Hazard: Multi
www.fema.gov/fima/planhowto.shtm
500 C. Street, SQ, Washington, DC 20472
Ph: 202.566.1600
Notes: The Mitigation Division manages the National Flood Insurance Program and oversees FEMA's mitigation programs. It has of a number of programs and activities of which provide citizens Protection, with flood insurance, Prevention, with mitigation measures and Partnerships, with communities throughout the country.
Floodplain Management Association
Level: Federal
Hazard: Flood
www.floodplain.org
P.O. Box 50891, Sparks, NV 89435-0891
Ph: 775.626.6389
Notes: The Floodplain Management Association is a nonprofit educational association. It was established in 1990 to promote the reduction of flood losses and to encourage the protection and enhancement of natural floodplain values. Members include representatives of federal, state and local government agencies as well as private firms.
Gateway Cities Partnership
Level: Regional
Hazard: Multi
www.gatewaycities.org
7300 Alondra Blvd., Suite 202, Paramount, CA 90723
Ph: 562.817.0820
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
Notes: Gateway Cities Partnership is a 50 1-C3 non-profit Community Development Corporation for the Gateway Cities region of southeast LA County. The region comprises 27 cities that roughly speaking extends from Montebello on the north to Long Beach on the South, the Alameda Corridor on the west to the Orange County line on the east.
Governor's Office of Emergency Services (OES)
Level: State
Hazard: Multi
www .oes.ca.gov
P.O. Box 419047, Rancho Cordova, CA 95741-9047
Ph: 916.845.8911
Notes: The Governor's Office of Emergency Services coordinates overall state agency response to major disasters in support of local government. The office is responsible for assuring the state’s readiness to respond to and recover from natural, manmade, and war-caused emergencies, and for assisting local governments in their emergency preparedness, response and recovery efforts.
Governor’s Office of Planning and Research
Level: State
Hazard: Multi
https://www.opr.ca.gov/about/contact-us.html
1400 Tenth Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Ph: 916.322.2318
Notes: The Governor’s Office of Planning and Research studies future research and planning needs, fosters goal -driven collaboration, and delivers guidance to state partners and lo cal communities, with a focus on land use and community development, climate risk and resilience, and high road economic development.
Landslide Hazards Program, USGS
Level: Federal
Hazard: Landslide
http:// lands I ides.usgs.gov/index.htmI
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
12201 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA 20192
Ph: 703.648.4000
Notes: The NLIC website provides good information on the rograms and resources regarding landslides. The page includes information on the National Landslide Hazards Program Information Center, a bibliography, publications, and current projects. USGS scientists are working to reduce long -term losses and casualties from landslide hazards through better understanding of the causes and mechanisms of ground failure both nationally and worldwide.
Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation
Level: Regional
Hazard: Multi
www.laedc.org
444 S. Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Ph: 213.236.4813
Notes
: The LAEDC is a private, non- profit 501 (c) 3 organization established in 1981 with the mission to attract, retain and grow businesses and jobs in the Los Angeles region. The LAEDC is widely relied upon for its Southern California Economic Forecasts and Industry Trend Reports.
Lead by the renowned Jack Kyser (Sr. Vice President, Chief Economist) his team of re -search ers
produces numerous publications to help business, media and government navigate the LA region's diverse economy.
Los Angeles County Public Works Department
Level: County
Hazard: Multi
http://ladpw.org
900 S. Fremont Ave., Alhambra, CA 91803
Ph: 626.458.5100
Notes: The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works protects property and promotes public safety through Flood Control, Water Conservation, Road Maintenance, Bridges, Buses and Bicycle Trails, Building and Safety, Land Development, Waterworks, Sewers, Engineering, Capital Projects and Airports.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
National Wildland/Urban Interface Fire Program
Level: Federal
Hazard: Wildfire
www.firewise.org/
1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471
Ph: 617.770.3000
Notes: Firewise maintains a Website designed for people who live in wildfire -prone areas, but it also can be of use to local planners and decision makers. The site offers online wildfire protection information and checklists, as well as listings of other publications, videos, and conferences.
National Resources Conservation Service
Level: Federal
Hazard: Multi
http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/
14th a
nd Independ-ence
Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250
Ph: 202.7
20.7246
Notes: NRCS assists owners of America's private land with conserving their soil, water, and other natural resources, by delivering technical assistance based on sound science and suited to a customer's specific needs. Cost shares and financial incentives are available in some cases.
National lnteragency Fire Center
(NIFC)
Level: Federal
Hazard: Wildfire
www.nifc.gov
3833 S. Development Ave., Boise, Idaho 83705-5354
Ph: 208.387.5512
Notes: The NIFC in Boise, Idaho is the nation's support center for wildland firefighting. Seven federal agencies work together to coordinate and support wildland fire and disaster operations.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Level: National
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
Hazard: Wildfire
http://www.nfpa.org/catalog/home/index.asp
1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02 I 69-7471
Ph: 617.770.3000
Notes
: The mission of the international non -profit N
FPA is to reduce the worldwide burden of
fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating scientifically based consensus codes and standards, research, training and education.
National Floodplain Insurance Program (NFIP)
Level: Federal
Hazard: Flood
www.fema.gov/nfip/
500 C Street, S. W., Washington, O.C. 20472
Ph: 202.566.1600
Notes: The Mitigation Division manages the National Flood Insurance Program and oversees FEMA's mitigation programs. It has of a number of programs and activities of which provide citizens Protection, with flood insurance, Prevention, with mitigation measures and Partnerships, with communities throughout the country.
National Oceanic /Atmospheric Administration
Level: Federal
Hazard: Multi
www.noaa.gov
14th Street & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20230 Ph: 202.482.6090
Notes: NOAA's historical role has been to predict environmental changes, protect life and property, provide decision makers with reliable scientific information, and foster global environmental stewardship.
National Weather Service, Office of Hydrologic Development Level: Federal
Hazard: Flood
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
1325 East West Highway, SSMC2, Silver Spring, MD 20910 Ph: 301.713.1658
Notes: The Office of Hydrologic Development (OHO) enhances National Weather Service products by infusing new hydrologic science, developing hydrologic techniques for operational use, managing hydrologic development by NWS field office, providing advanced hydrologic products to meet needs identified by NWS customers.
National Weather Service
Level: Federal
Hazard: Multi
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/
520 North Elevar Street, Oxnard, CA 93030
Ph: 805.988.6615
Notes: The National Weather Service is resp onsible for providing weather service to the nation.
It is charged with the responsibility of observing and reporting the weather and with issuing forecasts and warnings of weather and floods in the interest of national safety and economy.
Briefly, the priorities for service to the nation are: 1. protection of life, 2. protection of property, and 3. promotion of the nation's welfare and economy.
San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership
Level: Regional
Hazard: Multi
www.valleynet.org
4900 Rivergrade Road, Irwindale, CA 91706
Ph: 626.856.3400
Notes: The San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership is a non-profit corporation representing both public and private sectors. The Partnership is the exclusive source for San Gabriel Valley specific information, expertise, consulting, products, services, and events. It is the single organization in the Valley with the mission to sustain and build the regional economy for the mutual benefit of all thirty cities, chambers of commerce, academic institutions, businesses, and residents.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County
Level: County
Hazard: Flood
http://www.lacsd.ora/
1955 Workman Mill Road, Whittier, CA 90607
Ph: 562.699.7411 x 2301
Notes: The South Bay Economic Development Partnership is a collaboration of business, labor, education and government. Its primary goal is to plan and implement an economic development and marketing strategy designed to retain and create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the South Bay of Los Angeles County.
South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD)
Level: Regional
Hazard: Multi
www.aqmd.gov
21865 E. Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, CA 91765
Ph: 800.CUT.SMOG
Notes: AQMD is a regional government agency that seeks to achieve and maintain healthful air quality thro ugh a comprehensive program of research, regulations, enforcement, and communication. The AQMD covers Los Angeles and Orange Counties and parts of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC)
Level: Regional
Hazard: Earthquake
www.scec.org
3651 Trousdale Parkway, Suite 169, Los Angeles, CA 90089-0742 Ph: 213.740.5843
Notes: The Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC) gathers new information about earthquakes in Southern California, integrates this information into a comprehensive and predictive understanding of earthquake phenomena, and communicates this understanding to end-users and the general public in order to increase earthquake awareness, reduce economic losses, and save lives.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG)
Level: Regional
Hazard: Multi
www.scag.ca.gov
818 W. Seventh Street, 12th floor, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Ph: 213.236.1800
Notes: The Southern California Association of Governments functions as the Metropolitan Planning Organization for six counties: Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, Ventura and Imperial. As the designated Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Association of Governments is mandated by the federal government to research and draw up plans for transportation, growth management, hazardous waste management, and air quality.
State Fire Marshal (SFM)
Level: State
Hazard: Wildfire
http://osfm.fire.ca.gov
1131 "S" Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Ph: 916.445.8200
Notes: The Office of the State Fire Marshal (SFM) supports the mission of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) by focusing on fire prevention. SFM regulates buildings in which people live, controls substances which may, cause injuries, death and destruction by fire; provides statewide direction for fire prevention within wildland areas; regulates hazardous liquid pipelines; reviews regulations and building standards; and trains and educates in fire protection methods and responsibilities.
The Community Rating System (CRS)
Level: Federal
Hazard: Flood
http://www.fema.gov/nfip/crs.shtm
500 C Street, S. W., Washington, D.C. 20472
Ph: 202.566.1600
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
Notes: The Community Rating System (CRS) recognizes community floodplain management efforts that go beyond the minimum requirements of the NFlP. Property owners within the County would receive reduced NFIP flood insurance premiums if the County implements floodplain management practices that qualify it for a CRS rating. For further information on the CRS, visit FEMA's website.
United States Geological Survey
Level: Federal
Hazard: Multi
http://www.usgs.gov/
345 Middlefield Road, Menlo Park, CA 94025
Ph: 650.853.8300
Notes: The USGS provides reliable scientific information to describe and understand the Earth; minimize loss of life and property from natural disasters; manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources; and enhance and protect our quality of life.
US Army Corps of Engineers
Level: Federal
Hazard: Multi
http://www.usaace.army.mil
P.O. Box 532711, Los Angeles CA 90053- 2325
Ph: 213.452.3921
Notes: The United States Army Corps of Engineers work in engineering and environmental matters. A workforce of biologists, engineers, geologists, hydrologists, natural resource managers and other professionals provide engineering services to the nation including planning, designing, building and operating water resources and other civil works projects.
USDA Forest Service
Level: Federal
Hazard: Wildfire
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
http://www.fs.fed.us
1400 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-0002
Ph: 202.205.8333
Notes: The Forest Service is an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Forest Service manages public lands in national forests and grasslands.
USGS Water Resources
Level: Federal
Hazard: Multi
www.water.usgs.gov
6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA 95819-6129
Ph: 916.278.3000
Notes: The USGS Water Resources mission is to provide water information that benefits the Nation's citizens: publications, data, maps, and applications software.
Western States Seismic Policy Council (WSSPC)
Level: Regional
Hazard: Earthquake
www.wsspc.org/home.html
125 California Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Ph: 650.330.1101
Notes: WSSPC is a regional earthquake consortium funded mainly by FEMA. Its website is a great resource, with information clearly categorized - from policy to engineering to education.
Westside Economic Collaborative C/O Pacific Western Bank Level: Regional
Hazard: Multi
http://www.westside-la.or
120 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Ph: 310.458.1521
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
Notes: The Westside Economic Development Collaborative is the first Westside regional economic development corporation. The Westside EDC functions as an information gatherer and resource center, as well as a forum, through bringing business, governmen t, and residents together to address issues affecting the region: Economic Diversity, Transportation, Housing, Workforce Training and Retraining, Lifelong Learning, Tourism, and Embracing Diversity.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix C: Resource Directory & Pomona Organizational Charts
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix D: Economic Guidelines for Natural Hazard Mitigation Projects
Appendix D:
Economic Analysis Guidelines for Natural
Hazard Mitigation Projects
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix D: Economic Analysis Guidelines for Natural Hazard Mitigation Projects
APPENDIX D: ECONOMIC ANALYSIS GUIDELINES FOR NATURAL HAZARD MITIGATION PROJECTS Benefit/cost analysis is a key mechanism used by the state Office of Emergency Services (OES), the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and other state and federal agencies in evaluating hazard mitigation projects and is required by the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, Public Law 93-288, as amended.
This appendix outlines several approaches for conducting economic analysis of natural hazard mitigation projects. It describes the importance of implementing mitigation activities, different approaches to economic analysis of mitigation strategies, and methods to calculate costs and benefits associated with mitigation strategies. Information in this section is derived in part from: The Interagency Hazards Mitigation Team, State Hazard Mitigation Plan, (Oregon State Police - Office of Emergency Management, 2000), and Federal Emergency Management Agency Publication 331, Report on Costs and Benefits of Natural Hazard Mitigation.
This section is not intended to provide a comprehensive description of benefit/cost analysis, nor is it intended to provide the details of economic analysis methods that can be used to evaluate local projects.
It is intended to (I) raise benefit/cost analysis as an important issue, and (2) provide some background on how economic analysis can be used to evaluate mitigation projects.
PURPOSE
Mitigation activities reduce the cost of disasters by minimizing property damage, injuries, and the potential for loss of life, and by reducing emergency response costs, which would otherwise be incurred.
Evaluating natural hazard mitigation provides decision makers with an understanding of the potential benefits and costs of an activity, as well as a basis upon which to compare alternative projects. Evaluating mitigation projects is a complex and difficult undertaking, which is influenced by many variables. First, natural disasters affect all segments of the communities they strike, including individuals, businesses, and public services such as fire, police, utilities, and schools.
Second, while some of the direct and indirect costs of disaster damages are measurable, some of the costs are non-financial and difficult to quantify in dollars. Third, many of the impacts of such events produce "ripple-effects" throughout the co mmunity, greatly increasing the disaster's social and economic consequences.
While not easily accomplished, there is value, from a public policy perspective, in assessing the positive and negative impacts from mitigation activities and obtaining an instructive benefit/cost comparison.
Otherwise, the decision to pursue or not pursue various mitigation options would not be based on an objective understanding of the net benefit or loss associated with these actions.
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS APPROACHES FOR MITIGATION STRATEGIES
The approaches used to identify the costs and benefits associated with natural hazard mitigation strategies, measures, or projects fall into two general categories: benefit/cost analysis and cost - effectiveness analysis. The distinction between the two methods is the way in which the relative costs and benefits are measured. Additionally, there are varying approaches to assessing the value of mitigation for public sector and private sector activities.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix D: Economic Analysis Guidelines for Natural Hazard Mitigation Projects
Benefit/Cost Analysis
Benefit/cost analysis is used in natural hazards mitigation to show if the benefits to life and property protected through mitigation efforts exceed the cost of the mitigation activity. Conducting benefit/cost analysis for a mitigation activity can assist communities in determining whether a project is worth undertaking now, in order to avoid disaster related damages later. Benefit/cost analysis is based on calculating the frequency and severity of a hazard, avoided future damages, and risk.
In benefit/cost analysis, all costs and benefits are evaluated in terms of dollars, and a net benefit/cost ratio is computed to determine whether a project should be implemented (i.e., if net benefits exceed net costs, the project is worth pursuing). A project must have a benefit/cost ratio greater than 1 in order to be funded.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Cost-effectiveness analysis evaluates how best to spend a given amount of money to achieve a specific goal. This type of analysis, however, does not necessarily measure costs and benefits in terms of dollars.
Determining the economic feasibility of mitigating natural hazards can also be organized according to the perspective of those with an economic interest in the outcome. Hence, economic analysis approaches are covered for both public and private sectors as follows.
Investing in public sector mitigation activities
Evaluating mitigation strategies in the public sector is complicated because it involves estimating all of the economic benefits and costs regardless of who realizes them, and potentially to a large number of people and economic entities. Some benefits cannot be evaluated monetarily, but still affect the public in profound ways. Economists have developed methods to evaluate the economic feasibility of public decisions that involve a diverse set of beneficiaries and non-market benefits.
Investing in private sector mitigation activities
Private sector mitigation projects may occur on the basis of one of two approaches: it may be mandated by a regulation or standard, or it may be economically justified on its own merits. A building or landowner, whether a private entity or a public agency, required to conform to a mandated standard may consider the following options:
• Request cost sharing from public agencies;
• Dispose of the building or land either by sale or demolition; • Change the designated use of the building or land and change the hazard mitigation compliance requirement; or
• Evaluate the most feasible alternatives and initiate the most cost -effective hazard mitigation alternative.
The sale of a building or land triggers another set of concerns. For example, real estate disclosure laws can be developed which require sellers of real property to disclose known defects and deficiencies in the property, including earthquake weaknesses and hazards to prospective purchasers. Correcting deficiencies can be expensive and time consuming, but their existence can prevent the sale of the building. Conditions of a sale regarding the deficiencies and the price of the building can be negotiated between a buyer and seller.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix D: Economic Analysis Guidelines for Natural Hazard Mitigation Projects
CONDUCTING AN ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
Benefit/cost analysis and cost-effectiveness analysis are important tools in evaluating whether or not to implement a mitigation activity. A framework for evaluating alternat ive mitigation activities is outlined below:
1. Identify the Alternatives. Alternatives for reducing risk from natural hazards can include structural projects to enhance disaster resistance, education and outreach, and acquisition or demolition of exposed properties, among others. Different mitigation project can assist in minimizing risk to natural hazards but do so at varying economic costs.
2. Calculate the Costs and Benefits. Choosing economic criteria is essential to systematically calculating costs and benefits of mitigation projects and selecting the most appropriate alternative. Potential economic criteria to evaluate alternatives include:
• Determine the project cost. This may include initial project development costs, and repair and operating costs of maintaining projects over time.
• Estimate the benefits . Projecting the benefits, or cash flow resulting from a project can be difficult. Expected future returns from the mitigation effort depend on the correct specification of the risk and the effectiveness of the project, which may not be well known.
Expected future costs depend on the physical durability and potential economic obsolescence of the investment. This is difficult to project. These considerations will also provide guidance in selecting an appropriate salvage value. Future tax structures and rates must be projected.
Financing alternatives must be researched, and they may include retained earnings, bond and stock issues, and commercial loans.
• Consider costs and benefits to society and the enviro nment. These are not easily measured but can be assessed through a variety of economic tools including existence value or contingent value theories. These theories provide quantitative data on the value people attribute to physical or social environments. Even without hard data, however, impacts of structural projects to the physical environment or to society should be considered when implementing mitigation projects.
• Determine the correct discount rate. Determination of the discount rate can just be the r isk- free cost of capital, but it may include the decision maker's time preference and also a risk premium. Including inflation should also be considered.
3. Analyze and Rank the Alternatives. Once costs and benefits have been quantified, economic analysis tools can rank the alternatives. Two methods for determining the best alternative given varying costs and benefits include net present value and internal rate of return.
• Net present value . Net present value is the value of the expected future returns of an investment minus the value of expected future cost expressed in today's dollars. If the net present value is greater than the project costs, the project may be determined feasible for implementation. Selecting the discount rate and identifying the present and future costs and benefits of the project calculates the net present value of projects. • Internal Rate of Return. Using the internal rate of return method to evaluate mitigation City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix D: Economic Analysis Guidelines for Natural Hazard Mitigation Projects
projects provides the interest rate equivalent to the dollar returns expected from the project.
Once the rate has been calculated, it can be compared to rates earned by investing in alternative projects. Projects may be feasible to implement when the internal rate of return is greater than the total costs of the project.
Once the mitigation projects are ranked on the basis of economic criteria, decision-makers can consider other factors, such as risk; project effectiveness; and economic, environmental, and social returns in choosing the appropriate project for implementation.
ECONOMIC RETURNS OF NATURAL HAZARD MITIGATION
The estimation of economic returns, which accrue to building or landowner as a result of natural hazard mitigation, is difficult. Owners evaluating the economic feasibility of mitigation should consider reductions in physical damages and financial losses. A partial list follows:
• Building damages avoided
• Content damages avoided
• Inventory damages avoided
• Rental income losses avoided
• Relocation and disruption expenses avoided
• Proprietor's income losses avoided
These parameters can be estimated using observed prices, costs, and engineering data. The difficult part is to correctly determine the effectiveness of the hazard mitigation project and the resulting reduction in damages and losses. Equally as difficult is assessing the probability that an event will occur. The damages and losses should only include those that will be borne by the owner. The salvage value of the investment can be important in determining economic feasibility. Salvage value becomes more important as the time horizon of the owner declines. This is important because most businesses depreciate assets over a period of time.
ADDITIONAL COSTS FROM NATURAL HAZARDS
Property owners should also assess changes in a broader set of factors that can change as a result of a large natural disaster. These are usually termed "indirect" effects, but they can have a very direct effect on the economic value of the owner's building or land. They can be positive or negative, and include changes in the following:
• Commodity and resource prices
• Availability of resource supplies
• Commodity and resource demand changes Building and land values • Capital availability and interest rates
• Availability of labor
• Economic structure
• Infrastructure
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Appendix D: Economic Analysis Guidelines for Natural Hazard Mitigation Projects
• Regional exports and imports
• Local, state, and national regulations and policies
• Insurance availability and rates
Changes in the resources and industries listed above are more difficult to estimate and require models that are structured to estimate total economic impacts. Total economic impacts are the sum of direct and indirect economic impacts. Total economic impact models are usually not combined with economic feasibility models. Many models exist to estimate total economic impacts of changes in an economy.
Decision makers should understand the total economic impacts of natural disasters in order to calculate the benefits of a mitigation activity. This suggests that understanding the local economy is an important first step in being able to understand the potential impacts of a disaster, and the benefits of mitigation activities.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
Conducting an economic analysis for potential mitigation activities can assist decision-makers in choosing the most appropriate strategy for their community to reduce risk and prevent loss from natural hazards.
Economic analysis can also save time and resources from being spent on inappropriate or unfeasible projects. Several resources and models are listed on the following page that can assist in conducting an economic analysis for natural hazard mitigation activities.
Benefit/cost analysis is complicated, and the numbers may divert attention from other important issues.
It is important to c onsider the qualitative factors of a project associated with mitigation that cannot be evaluated economically. There are alternative approaches to implementing mitigation projects. Many communities are looking towards developing multi-objective projects. With this in mind, opportunity rises to develop strategies that integrate natural hazard m itigation with projects related to watersheds, environmental planning, community economic development, and small business development, among others. Incorporating natural hazard mitigation with other community projects can increase the viability of project implementation.
RESOURCES
The following resources for economic analysis have been provided by the Disaster Management Area D Coordinator.
CUREe Kajima Project, Methodologies For Evaluating The Socio-Economic Consequences Of Large Earthquakes, Task 7.2 Economic Impact Analysis, Prepared by University of California, Berkeley Team, Robert A. Olson, VSP Associates, Team Leader; John M. Eidinger, G&E Engineering Systems; Kenneth A. Goettel, Goettel and Associates lnc.; and Gerald L. Horner, Hazard Mitigation Economics Inc., 1997.
Federal Emergency Management Agency, Benefit/Cost Analysis of Hazard Mitigation Projects, Riverine Flood, Version 1.05, Hazard Mitigation Economics Inc., 1996.
Federal Emergency Management Agency Report on Costs and Benefits of Natural Hazard Mitigation.
Publication 331, 1996.
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Appendix D: Economic Analysis Guidelines for Natural Hazard Mitigation Projects
Goettel & Horner Inc., Earthquake Risk Analysis Volume Ill: The Economic Feasibility of Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings in The City of Portland, Submitted to the Bureau of Buildings, City of Portland, August 30, 1995.
Goettel & Horner Inc., Benefit/Cost Analysis of Hazard Mitigation Projects Volume V, Earthquakes, Prepared for FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Branch, October 25, 1995.
Horner, Gerald, Benefit/Cost Methodologies for Use in Evaluating the Cost Effectiveness of Proposed Hazard Mitigation Measures, Robert Olson Associates, Prepared for Oregon State Police, Office of Emergency Management, July 1999.
Interagency Hazards Mitigation Team, _State Hazard Mitigation Plan, (Oregon State Police - Office of Emergency Management, 2000).
Risk Management Solutions, Inc., Develop ment of a Standardized Earthquake Loss Estimation Methodology, National Institute of Building Sciences, Volume I and II, 1994.
VSP Associates, Inc., A Benefit/Cost Model for the Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings, Volumes I & 2, Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA Publication Numbers 227 and 228, 1991.
YSP Associates, Inc., Benefit/Cost Analysis of Hazard Mitigation Projects: Section 404 Hazard Mitigation Program and Section 406 Public Assistance Program, Volume 3: Seismic Hazard Mitigation Projects, 1993.
YSP Associates, Inc., Seismic Rehabilitation of Federal Buildings: A Benefit/Cost Model, Volume I, Federal Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, Publication Number 255, 1994.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix E: List of Acronyms
Appendix E:
List of Acronyms
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix E: List of Acronyms
APPENDIX E: LIST OF ACRONYMS
FEDERAL ACRONYMS
AASHTO American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials ATC Applied Technology Council
BCA Benefit/Cost Analysis
BFE Base Flood Elevation
BLM Bureau of Land Management
BSSC Building Seismic Safety Council
CDBG Community Development Block Grant
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CRS Community Rating System
EDA Economic Development
Mitigation EDA Environmental Protection Agency
ER Emergency Relief
EWP Emergency Watershed Protection (NRCS Program)
FAS Federal Aid System
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map
FMA Flood Mitigation Assistance
FTE (FEMA Program)
GIS Geographic Information System
GNS Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (International) GSA General Services Administration
HAZUS Hazards U.S.
HMGP Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
HMST Hazard Mitigation Survey Team
HUD Housing and Urban Development (United States, Department of) IBHS Institute for Business and Home Safety
ICC Increased Cost of Compliance
IHMT Interagency Hazard Mitigation Team
NCDC National Climate Data Center
NFIP National Flood Insurance Program
NFPA National Fire Protection Association
NHMP Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan (also known as "409 Plan") NIBS National Institute of Building Sciences
NIFC National Interagency Fire Center
NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NPS National Park Service
NRCS Natural Resources Conservation Service
NWS National Weather Service
SBA Small Business Administration
SEAO Structural Engineers Association of Oregon
SHMO State Hazard Mitigation Officer
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix E: List of Acronyms
TOR Transfer of Development Rights
UGB Urban Growth Boundary
URM Unreinforced Masonry
USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers
USBR United States Bureau of Reclamation
USDA United States Department of Agriculture
USFA United States Fire Administration
USFS United States Forest Service
USGS United States Geological Survey
WSSPC Western States Seismic Policy
CALIFORNIA ACRONYMS
A&W Alert and Warning
AA Administering Areas
AAR After Action Report
ARC American Red Cross
ARP Accidental Risk Prevention
ATC20 Applied Technology Council 20
ATC21 Applied Technology Council 21
BCP Budget Change Proposal
BSA California Bureau of State Audits
CAER Community Awareness & Emergency Response
CalARP California Accidental Release Prevention
CalBO California Building Officials
CalEPA California Environmental Protection Agency
CalREP California Radiological Emergency Plan
CALSTARS California State Accounting Reporting System
CalTrans California Department of Transportation
CBO Community Based Organization
CD Civil Defense
CDF California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection CDMG California Division of Mines and Geology
CEC California Energy Commission
CEPEC California Earthquake Prediction Evaluation Council CESRS California Emergency Services Radio System
CHIP California Hazardous Identification Program
CHMIRS California Hazardous Materials Incident Reporting System CHP California Highway Patrol
CLETS California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System CSTI California Specialized Training Institute
CUEA California Utilities Emergency Association
CUPA Certified Unified Program Agency
DAD Disaster Assistance Division (of the state Office of Emergency Svcs) DFO Disaster Field Office
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Appendix E: List of Acronyms
DGS California Department of General Services
DHSRHB California Department of Health Services, Radiological Health Branch DO Duty Officer
DOC Department Operations Center
DOE Department of Energy (U.S.)
DOF California Department of Finance
DOJ California Department of Justice
DPA California Department of Personnel Administration
DPIG Disaster Preparedness Improvement Grant
DR Disaster Response
DSA Division of the State Architect
DSR Damage Survey Report
DSW Disaster Service Worker
DWR California Department of Water Resources
EAS Emergency Alerting System
EDIS Emergency Digital Information System
EERI Earthquake Engineering Research Institute
EMA Emergency Management Assistance
EMI Emergency Management Institute
EMMA Emergency Managers Mutual Aid
EMS Emergency Medical Services
EOC Emergency Operations Center
EOP Emergency Operations Plan
EPA Environmental Protection Agency (U.S.)
EPEDAT Early Post Earthquake Damage Assessment Tool
EPI Emergency Public Information
EPIC Emergency Public Information Council
ESC Emergency Services Coordinator
FAY Federal Award Year
FDAA Federal Disaster Assistance Administration
FEAT Governor's Flood Emergency Action Team
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FFY Federal Fiscal Year
FIR Final Inspection Reports
FIRESCOPE Firefighting Resources of So. Calif Organized for Potential Emergencies FMA Flood Management Assistance
FSR Feasibility Study Report
FY Fiscal Year
GIS Geographical Information System
HAZMAT Hazardous Materials
HAZMIT Hazardous Mitigation
HAZUS Hazards United States (an earthquake damage assessment prediction tool) HAD Housing and Community Development
HEICS Hospital Emergency Incident Command System
HEPG Hospital Emergency Planning Guidance
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix E: List of Acronyms
HIA Hazard Identification and Analysis Unit
HMEP Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness
HMGP Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
IDE Initial Damage Estimate
IA Individual Assistance
IFG Individual & Family Grant (program)
IRG Incident Response Geographic Information System
IPA Information and Public Affairs (of state Office of Emergency Services) LAN Local Area Network
LEMMA Law Enforcement Master Mutual Aid
LEPC Local Emergency Planning Committee
MARAC Mutual Aid Regional Advisory Council
MHID Multi-hazard Identification
MOU Memorandum of Understanding
NBC Nuclear, Biological, Chemical
NEMA National Emergency Management Agency
NEMIS National Emergency Management Information System
NFIP National Flood Insurance Program
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association
NPP Nuclear Power Plant
NSF National Science Foundation
NWS National Weather Service
OA Operational Area
OASIS Operational Area Satellite Information System
OCC Operations Coordination Center
OCD Office of Civil Defense
OEP Office of Emergency Planning
OES California Governor's Office of Emergency Services
OSHPD Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development OSPR Oil Spill Prevention and Response
PA Public Assistance
PC Personal Computer
PDA Preliminary Damage Assessment
PIO Public Information Office
POST Police Officer Standards and Training
PPA/CA Performance Partnership Agreement/Cooperative Agreement/Cooperative Agreement (FEMA)
PSA Public Service Announcement
PTAB Planning and Technological Assistance Branch
PTR Project Time Report
RA Regional Administrator (OES)
RADEF Radiological Defense (program)
RAMP Regional Assessment of Mitigation Priorities
RAPID Railroad Accident Prevention & Immediate Deployment RDO Radiological Defense Officer
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Appendix E: List of Acronyms
RDMHC Regional Disaster Medical Health Coordinator
REOC Regional Emergency Operations Center
REPI Reserve Emergency Public Information
RES Regional Emergency Staff
RIMS Response Information Management System
RMP Risk Management Plan
RPU Radiological Preparedness Unit (OES)
RRT Regional Response Team
SAM State Administrative Manual
SARA Superfund Amendments & Reauthorization Act
SAVP Safety Assessment Volunteer Program
SBA Small Business Administration
SCO California State Controller's Office
SEMS Standardized Emergency Management System
SEPIC State Emergency Public Information Committee
SLA State and Local Assistance
SONGS San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station
SOP Standard Operating Procedure
SWEPC Statewide Emergency Planning Committee
TEC Travel Expense Claim
TRU Transuranic
TTT Train the Trainer
UPA Unified Program Account
UPS Uninterrupted Power Source
USAR Urban Search and Rescue
USGS United States Geological Survey California State
WC Warning Center
WAN Wide Area Network
WIPP Waste Isolation Pilot Project
Source: Disaster Management Area D Coordinator, 2004.
City of Pomona Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix F: Glossary
Appendix F:
Glossary
Draft Table of Contents Section
Appendix F: Glossary
APPENDIX F: GLOSSARY
Acceleration
The rate of change of velocity with respect to time. Acceleration due to gravity at the earth's surface is 9.8 meters per second squared. That means that every second that something falls toward the surface of earth its velocity increases by 9.8 meters per second.
Asset
Any manmade or natural feature that has value, including, but not limited to people; buildings; infrastructure like bridges, roads, and sewer and water systems; lifelines like electricity and communication resources; or environmental, cultural, or recreational features like parks, dunes, wet-lands, or landmarks.
Base Flood Flood that has a I percent probability of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. Also known as the 100-year flood.
Base Flood Elevation (BFE)
Elevation of the base flood in relation to a specified datum, such as the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929. The Base Flood Elevation is used as the standard for the National Flood In-surance Program.
Bedrock The solid rock that underlies loose material, such as soil, sand, clay, or gravel.
Building
A structure that is walled and roofed, principally above ground and permanently affixed to a site. The term includes a manufactured home on a permanent foundation on which the wheels and axles carry no weight.
Coastal High Hazard Area
Area, usually along an open coast, bay, or inlet, that is subject to inundation by storm surge and, in some instances, wave action caused by storms or seismic sources.
Coastal Zones
The area along the shore where the ocean meets the land as the surface of the land rises above the ocean. This land/water interface includes barrier islands, estuaries, beaches, coastal wetlands, and land areas having direct drainage to the ocean.
Community Rating System
(CRS)
An NFIP program that provides incentives for NFIP communities to complete activities that reduce flood hazard risk. When the community completes specified activities, the insurance premiums of policyholders in these communities are reduced.
Computer-Aided Design and
Drafting (CADD)
A computerized system enabling quick and accurate electronic 2-D and 3-D drawings, topographic mapping, site plans, and profile/cross- section drawings.
Contour A line of equal ground elevation on a topographic (contour) map.
Critical Facility
Facilities that are critical to the health and welfare of the population and that are especially important following hazard events. Critical facilities include, but are not limited to, shelters, police and fire stations, and hospitals.
Debris
The scattered remains of assets broken or destroyed in a hazard event.
Debris caused by a wind or water hazard event can cause additional damage to other assets.
Digitalize
To convert electronically points, lines, and area boundaries shown on maps into x, y coordinates (e.g., latitude and longitude, universal transverse mercator (UTM), or table coordinates) for use in computer Draft Table of Contents Section
Appendix F: Glossary
applications.
Displacement Time
The average time (in days) which the building's occupants typically must operate from a temporary location to while repairs are made to the original building due to damages resulting from a hazard event.
Duration How long a hazard event lasts.
Earthquake A sudden motion or trembling that is caused by a release of strain accumulated within or along the edge of earth's tectonic plates.
Erosion
Wearing away of the land surface by detachment and movement of soil and rock fragments, during a flood or storm or over a period of years, through the action of wind, water, or other geologic processes.
Erosion Hazard Area
Area anticipated to be lost to shoreline retreat over a given period of time. The projected inland extent of the area is measured by multiplying the average annual long-term recession rate by the number of years desired.
Essential Facility
Elements that are important to ensure a full recovery of a community or state following a hazard event. These would include: government functions, major employers, banks, schools, and certain commercial establishments, such as grocery stores, hardware stores, and gas stations.
Extent The size of an area affected by a hazard or hazard event.
Extratropical Cyclone
Cyclonic storm events like Nor'easters and severe winter low-pressure systems. Both West and East coasts can experience these non-trop ical storms that produce gale-force winds and precipitation in the form of heavy rain or snow. These cyclonic storms, commonly called nor'easters on the East Coast because of the direction of the storm winds, can last for several days and can be very large -1,000-mile wide storms are not uncommon.
Fault
A fracture in the continuity of a rock formation caused by a shifting or dislodging of the earth's crust, in which adjacent surfaces are differentially displaced parallel to the plane of fracture.
Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA)
Independent agency created in 1978 to provide a single point of accountability for all Federal activities related to disaster mitigation and emergency preparedness, response and recovery.
Fire Potential Index (FPI)
Developed by USGS and USFS to assess and map fire hazard potential over broad areas. Based on such geo-graph ic information, national policy makers and on-the-ground fire managers established priorities for prevention activities in the defined area to reduce the risk of managed and wildfire ignition and spread. Prediction of fire hazard shortens the time between fire ignition and initial attack by enabling fire managers to pre-allocate and stage sup
-pres
sion forces to high fire
risk areas.
Flash Flood A flood event occurring with little or no warning where water levels rise at an extremely fast rate.
Flood
A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of nor-mally dry land areas from (I) the overflow of inland or tidal waters, (2) the unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from Draft Table of Contents Section
Appendix F: Glossary
any source, or (3) mudflows or the sudden collapse of shoreline land.
Flood Depth Height of the floodwater surface above the ground surface.
Flood Elevation
Elevation of the water sur-face above an established datum, e.g.
National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929, North American Ver-tical Datum of 1988, or Mean Sea Level.
Flood Hazard Area The area shown to be inundated by a flood of a given magnitude on a map.
Flood Insurance Rate Map
(FIRM)
Map of a community, pre-pared by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency that shows both the special flood hazard areas and the risk premium zones applicable to the community.
Flood Insurance Study (FIS)
A study that provides an examination, evaluation, and determination of flood hazards and, if appropriate, corresponding water surface elevations in a community or communities.
Floodplain Any land area, including watercourse, susceptible to partial or complete inundation by water from any source.
Frequency
A measure of how often events of a particular magnitude are expected to occur. Frequency describes how often a hazard of a specific magnitude, duration, and/or extent typically occurs, on average.
Statistically, a hazard with a 100-year recurrence interval is expected to occur once every 100 years on average, and would have a 1 percent chance -its probability-of happening in any given year. The reliability of this information varies depending on the kind of hazard being considered.
Fujita Scale of Tornado
Intensity
Rates tornadoes with numeric values from F0 to F5 based on tornado wind-speed and damage sustained. An F0 indicates minimal damage su
ch as broken tree limbs or signs, while and F5 indicated severe damage sustained.
Functional Downtime The average time (in days) during which a function (business or service) is unable to provide its services due to a hazard event.
Geographic Area Impacted The physical area in which the effects of the hazard are experienced.
Geographic Information
Systems (GIS)
A computer software application that relates physical features on the earth to a database to be used for mapping and analysis.
Ground Motion
The vibration or shaking of the ground during an earthquake. When a fault ruptures, seismic waves radiate, causing the ground to vibrate.
The severity of the vibration increases with the amount of energy released and decreases with distance from the causative fault or epicenter, but soft soils can further amplify ground motions.
Hazard
A source of potential danger or adverse condition. Hazards in this how- to series will include naturally occurring events such as floods, earthquakes, tornadoes, tsunami, coastal storms, landslides, and wildfires that strike populated areas. A natural event is a hazard when it has the potential to harm people or property.
Hazard Event A specific occurrence of a particular type of hazard.
Hazard Identification The process of identifying hazards that threaten an area.
Hazard Mitigation Sustained actions taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk from hazards and their effects.
Draft Table of Contents Section
Appendix F: Glossary
Hazard Profile
A description of the physical characteristics of hazards and a determination of various descriptors including magnitude, duration, frequency, probability, and extent. In most cases, a community can most easily use these descriptors when they are recorded and displayed as maps.
HAZUS (Hazards US) A GIS-based nationally standardized earthquake loss estimation tool developed by FEMA
Hurricane
An intense tropical cyclone, formed in the atmosphere over warm ocean areas, in which wind speeds reach 74- miles-per-hour or more and blow in a large spiral around a relatively calm center or "eye." Hurricanes develop over the north Atlantic Ocean, northeast Pacific Ocean, or the south Pacific Ocean east of 160°E longitude. Hurricane circulation is counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.
Hydrology The science of dealing with the waters of the earth. A flood discharge is developed by a hydrologic study.
Infrastructure
Refers to the public services of a community that have a direct impact on the quality of life. Infrastructure includes communication technology such as phone lines or Internet access, vital services such as public water supplies and sewer treat
-men
t facilities, and includes an area's
transportation sys-tem
such as airports, heliports; highways, bridges,
tunnels, roadbeds, over-pass es, railways, bridges, rail yards, depots; and waterways, canals, locks, seaports, ferries, harbors, drydocks, piers and regional dams.
Intensity A measure of the effects of a hazard event at a particular place.
Landslide Downward movement of a slope and materials under the force of gravity.
Lateral Spreads
Develop on gentle slopes and entail the sidelong movement of large masses of soil as an underlying layer liquefies in a seismic event. The phenomenon that occurs when ground shaking causes loose soils to lose strength and act like viscous fluid. Liquefaction causes two types of ground failure: lateral spread and loss of bearing strength.
Liquefaction Results when the soil supporting structures liquefies. This can cause structures to tip and topple.
Lowest Floor Under the NFIP, the lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area (including basement) of a structure.
Magnitude
A measure of the strength of a hazard event. The magnitude (also referred to as severity) of a given hazard event is usually determined using technical measures specific to the hazard.
Mitigation Plan
A systematic evaluation of the nature and extent of vulnerability to the effects of natural hazards typically present in the state and includes a description of actions to minimize future vulnerability to hazards.
National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP)
Federal program created by Congress in 1968 that makes flood insurance available in communities that enact minimum floodplain management regulations in 44 CFR §60.3.
National Geodetic Vertical Datum established in 1929 and used in the NFIP as a basis for Draft Table of Contents Section
Appendix F: Glossary
Datum of 1929 (NGVD) measuring flood, ground, and structural ele-vations, previously referred to as Sea Level Datum or Mean Sea Level. The Base Flood Elevations shown on most of the Flood Insurance Rate Maps issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency are referenced to NGVD.
National Weather Service
(NWS)
Prepares and issues flood, severe weather, and coastal storm warnings and can provide technical assistance to Federal and state entities in preparing weather and flood warning plans.
Nor’easter An extra-tropical cyclone producing gale-force winds and precipitation in the form of heavy snow or rain.
Outflow Follows water inundation creating strong currents that rip at structures and pound them with debris and erode beaches and coastal structures.
Planimetric Describes maps that indicate only man-made features like buildings.
Planning The act or process of making or carrying out plans; the establishment of goals, policies and procedures for a social or economic unit.
Probability A statistical measure of the likelihood that a hazard event will occur.
Recurrence Interval
The time between hazard events of similar size in a given location. It is based on the probability that the given event will be equaled or exceeded in any given year.
Repetitive Loss Property
A property that is currently insured for which two or more National Flood Insurance Program losses (occurring more than ten days apart) of at least $1,000 each have been paid within any 10-year period since 1978.
Replacement Value
The cost of rebuilding a structure. This is usually expressed in terms of cost per square foot and reflects the present-day cost of labor and materials to construct a building of a particular size, type and quality.
Richter Scale A numerical scale of earthquake magnitude devised by seismologist C.F.
Richter in 1935.
Risk
The estimated impact that a hazard would have on people, services, facilities, and structures in a community; the likelihood of a hazard event resulting in an adverse condition that causes injury or damage.
Risk is often expressed in relative terms such as a high, moderate or low likelihood of sustaining damage above a particular threshold due to a specific type of hazard event. It also can be expressed in terms of potential monetary losses associated with the intensity of the hazard.
Riverine Of or produced by a river.
Scale
A proportion used in determining a dimensional relationship; the ratio of the distance between two points on a map and the actual distance between the two points on the earth's surface.
Scarp A steep slope.
Scour
Removal of soil or fill material by the flow of floodwaters. The term is frequently used to describe storm-induced, localized conical erosion around pilings and other foundation supports where the obstruction of flow increases turbulence.
Seismicity Describes the likelihood of an area being subject to earthquakes.
Special Flood Hazard Area
(SFHA)
An area within a floodplain having a 1 percent or greater chance of flood occurrence in any given year (100-year floodplain); represented Draft Table of Contents Section
Appendix F: Glossary
on Flood Insurance Rate Maps by darkly shaded areas with zone designations that include the letter A or V.
Stafford Act
The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, PL 100-107 was signed into law November 23, 1988 and amended the Disaster Relief Act of 1974, PL 93-288. The Stafford Act is the statutory authority for most Federal disaster response activities, especially as they pertain to FEMA and its programs.
State Hazard Mitigation Officer
(SHMO)
The representative of state government who is the primary point of contact with FEMA, other state and Federal agencies, and local units of government in the planning and implementation of pre- and post- disaster mitigation activities.
Storm Surge
Rise in the water surface above normal water level on the open coast due to the action of wind stress and atmospheric pressure on the water surface.
Structure Something constructed. (See also Building)
Substantial Damage
Damage of any origin sustained by a structure in a Special Flood Hazard Area whereby the cost of restoring the structure to its before-damaged condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of the market value of the structure before the damage.
Super Typhoon A typhoon with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph or more.
Surface Faulting
The differential movement of two sides of a fracture - in other words, the location where the ground breaks apart. The length, width, and displacement of the ground characterize surface faults.
Tectonic Plate
Torsionally rigid, thin seg-ments of the earth's lithosphere that may be assumed to move horizontally and adjoin other plates. It is the friction between plate boundaries that cause seismic activity.
Topographic
Characterizes maps that show natural features and indicate the physical shape of the land using contour lines. These maps may also include manmade features.
Tornado A violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground.
Tropical Cyclone A generic term for a cyclonic, low-pressure system over tropical or subtropical waters.
Tropical Depression A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of less than 39 mph.
Tropical Storm A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds greater than 39 mph and less than 74 mph.
Tsunami Great sea wave produced by submarine earth movement or volcanic eruption.
Typhoon
A special category of tropical cyclone peculiar to the western North Pacific Basin, frequently affecting areas in the vicinity of Guam and the North Mariana Islands. Typhoons whose maximum sustained winds attain or exceed 150 mph are called super typhoons.
Vulnerability
Describes how exposed or susceptible to damage an asset is.
Vulnerability depends on an asset's construction, contents, and the economic value of its functions. Like indirect damages, the vulnerability of one element of the community is often related to the vulnerability of Draft Table of Contents Section
Appendix F: Glossary
another. For example, many businesses depend on uninterrupted electrical power -if an electric substation is flooded, it will affect not only the substation itself, but a number of businesses as well. Often, indirect effects can be much more widespread and damaging than direct ones.
Vulnerability Assessment
The extent of injury and damage that may result from a hazard event of a given area. The vulnerability assessment should address impacts of hazard events on the existing and future built environment.
Water Displacement
When a large mass of earth on the ocean bottom sinks or uplifts, the column of water directly above it is displaced, forming the tsunami wave. The rate of displacement, motion of the ocean floor at the epicenter, the amount of displacement of the rupture zone, and the depth of water above the rupture zone all contribute to the intensity of the tsunami.
Wave Runup
The height that the wave extends up to on steep shorelines, measured above a reference level (the normal height of the sea, corrected to the state of the tide at the time of wave arrival).
Wildfire An uncontrolled fire spreading through vegetative fuels, exposing and possibly consuming structures.
Zone A geographical area shown on a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) that reflects the severity or type of flooding in the area
Source: Disaster Management Area D Coordinator, 2004.
APPENDIX C
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ALL-HAZARDS MITIGATION PLAN
2025 County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Chief Executive Office - Office of Emergency Management
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Acknowledgement
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors gratefully acknowledges the following agencies/jurisdictions who contributed to the development of this plan.
County Departments
Aging and Disabilities
Chief Executive Office
Chief Sustainability Office
Beaches and Harbors
Economic Opportunity
Health Services
Human Resources
Parks and Recreation
Public Health
Public Social Services
Public Works
Regional Planning
Fire (LACoFD)
Internal Services
Sheriff (LASD)
Disaster Management Area Coordinators
State of California
California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) California State Council on Developmental Disabilities (SCCD) External Partners
Access Services
Alzheimer’s Association
Catholic Charities
City of Beverly Hills
City of Long Beach
Disability Community Resource Center
Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center
Emergency Network Los Angeles
Habitat for Humanity
Harbor Regional Center
Lanterman Regional Center
Los Angeles County Office of Education
Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts
Los Angeles County Metropolitan
Transportation Authority
Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles
County
Puente Hills Habitat Preservation Authority
South Central Los Angeles Regional Center
Westside Regional Center
Cover Photo Credits: Los Angeles County Chief Executive Office, Countywide Communications Branch; Los Angeles County Department of Public Works
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Table of Contents
Acknowledgement ................................................................................................................. 1 Letter of Promulgation ........................................................................................................... 2 1 Introduction, Purpose, and Scope ................................................................................ 6
1.1 Purpose ...................................................................................................................... 7
1.2 Scope ......................................................................................................................... 7
1.3 Legal Authority and Requirements ......................................................................... 7
1.4 Plan Organization ..................................................................................................... 8 2 Planning Process ............................................................................................................. 9
2.1 Overview of the Planning Process ........................................................................ 10
2.2 Stakeholder Engagement ...................................................................................... 13
2.3 Public Involvement and Outreach ........................................................................ 18
2.4 Review and Incorporation of Existing Plans and Reports .................................. 19 3 Community Profile ........................................................................................................ 22
3.1 Los Angeles County Overview .............................................................................. 23
3.2 Geography and Land Use ..................................................................................... 24
3.3 Social Vulnerability ................................................................................................. 25
3.4 Economy and Critical Infrastructure ..................................................................... 28
3.5 Climate and Environmental Conditions ............................................................... 29
3.6 Regional Collaboration and Planning Efforts ...................................................... 30
3.7 Implications for Hazard Mitigation Planning ....................................................... 31 4 Climate Change ............................................................................................................ 32
4.1 Climate Change Overview .................................................................................... 33
4.2 Integrating Climate Change into Hazard Profiles ............................................... 34
4.3 Climate Mitigation Strategies ................................................................................ 36
4.4 Climate Change Conclusion ................................................................................. 37 County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
5 Integrating Access and Functional Needs (AFN) into Hazard Mitigation .............. 38
5.1 AFN Introduction .................................................................................................... 39
5.2 Inclusion of AFN and Vulnerable Populations in Planning ................................ 39
5.3 Assessment of AFN Needs .................................................................................... 40
5.4 Coordination with AFN Support Agencies .......................................................... 42
5.5 AFN Conclusion ...................................................................................................... 42 6 Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment ............................................................... 43
6.1 Hazard Identification Overview ............................................................................. 44
6.2 Wildfire ..................................................................................................................... 49
6.3 Earthquake .............................................................................................................. 57
6.4 Extreme Heat ........................................................................................................... 67
6.5 Drought .................................................................................................................... 74
6.6 Flooding .................................................................................................................. 82
6.7 Dam Failure ............................................................................................................. 92
6.8 Land Movement .................................................................................................... 102
6.9 Tsunami .................................................................................................................. 114
6.10 Severe Wind and Tornado ............................................................................... 120
6.11 Mass Violence .................................................................................................... 130
6.12 Cybersecurity Incidents .................................................................................... 135
6.13 Transportation Incidents ................................................................................... 142
6.14 Public Health Emergencies .............................................................................. 147 7 Mitigation Strategy ...................................................................................................... 152
7.1 Mitigation Strategy Overview .............................................................................. 153
7.2 Mitigation Goals and Objectives ........................................................................ 153
7.3 Existing Mitigation Capabilities .......................................................................... 155
7.4 Identification and Analysis of Mitigation Strategies ......................................... 172 County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
7.5 Status of Previous Mitigation Efforts ................................................................... 184
7.6 Prioritization and Implementation of Mitigation Actions ................................. 186
7.7 Integration with Other Plans ............................................................................... 189
7.8 Mitigation Action Plan .......................................................................................... 191 8 Plan Maintenance ........................................................................................................ 196
8.1 Community Participation in Plan Maintenance ................................................. 197
8.2 Monitoring, Evaluation, and Maintenance......................................................... 198
8.3 Criteria for Updating the Hazard Mitigation Plan ............................................. 199
8.4 Plan Update ........................................................................................................... 200
8.5 Integration with Other Plans ............................................................................... 201 9 Plan Adoption .............................................................................................................. 202
9.1 Plan Adoption Overview ...................................................................................... 203 Appendices ......................................................................................................................... 204 County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
1 Introduction, Purpose,
and Scope
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
1.1 Purpose
The 2025 All -Hazard Mitigation Plan (AHMP) was developed in collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders representing County Departments and other external stakeholders from cities, local utilities, non -governmental organizations, and state agencies. The purpose of this AHMP is to form the strategic-level foundation for hazard mitigation efforts undertaken by the County of Los Angeles. The 2025 AHMP is an update to the 2020 version of the plan and seeks to maintain the County’s continuing commitment to hazard mitigation as a critical step in reducing hazard risks, making communities safer, and building countywide resilience.
1.2 Scope
Hazard mitigation is defined in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) as “any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from hazards.” This AHMP identifies and profiles hazards, analyzes the people and cri tical infrastructure at risk, and provides a series of mitigation strategies aimed at reducing hazard risk. The plan also describes actions to integrate vulnerable communities including people with Access and Functional Needs (AFN) into hazard mitigation planning and other efforts. The AHMP is intended to function as a strategic plan for hazard mitigation and, while not an emergency plan, complements the Los Angeles County Operational Area Emergency Operations Plan. This plan contains mitigation strategies for County -owned facilities or other areas under the jurisdiction of the County of Los Angeles. Hazard mitigation strategies for incorporated cities within Los Angeles County may be found in that city’s hazard mitigation plan.
1.3 Legal Authority and Requirements
Historically local hazard mitigation planning has been driven by federal law. The Disaster Mitigation Act (DMA) of 2000 amended the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act of 1988 with new requirements for hazard mitigation.
The DMA of 2000 emphasized the need for state, tribal, and local entities to closely coordinate on hazard mitigation efforts and formed the legal basis for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) current mitigation plan requirements in order to utilize H azard Mitigation Assistance grant programs. This plan was prepared County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
pursuant to the requirements set forth in the DMA of 2000 and other FEMA hazard mitigation policy guidance.
1.4 Plan Organization
The AHMP is organized into nine (9) sections, excluding the Appendices, including:
1. Introduction: Discusses the purpose, scope, and legal authority of the plan.
2. Planning Process: Describes the planning process that was undertaken by the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee to create this updated 2025 AHMP .
3. Community Profile: Overviews the unique geographic, climatic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors that make up Los Angeles County and their implications for hazard mitigation planning.
4. Climate Change: Outlines the impacts of climate change in Los Angeles County and potential mitigation and adaptation measures.
5. Integrating AFN into Hazard Mitigation: Discusses strategies for integrating people with Access and Functional Needs (AFN) into prevention and hazard mitigation efforts.
6. Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment: Identifies and profiles nine (9) natural and four (4) human-caused hazards that may impact Los Angeles County including: wildfire, earthquake, extreme heat, drought, flooding, dam failure, land movement, tsunami, severe wind and tornado, mass violence, cybersecurity incidents, transportation incidents, and public health emergencies.
7. Mitigation Strategy: Delineates the overall strategy for the County’s hazard mitigation efforts including goals and objectives, existing mitigation capabilities, and an analysis of mitigation actions.
8. Plan Maintenance: Outlines how the plan will be maintained annually ahead of the next full plan update in five years.
9. Plan Adoption: Discusses updates to the plan and implementation following plan adoption.
Following these sections, there are an additional six (6) appendices with supporting materials such as hazard maps, meeting minutes from planning meetings, and information about the public engagement efforts during the planning process.
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
2 Planning Process
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
2.1 Overview of the Planning Process
The 2025 Los Angeles County All-Hazard Mitigation Plan (AHMP) update builds upon the robust all -hazard planning framework established by the 2020 All -Hazards Mitigation Plan, while incorporating new methodologies, stakeholder engagement, and compliance requirements. The planning process for this update emphasized inclusivity, transparency, and the integration of emerging climate adaptation considerations.
This planning process followed a structured, phased approach aligned with FEMA’s Local Mitigation Planning Policy Guide (2022), 44 CFR requirements, and guidance from the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). This approach began with project initiation where the scope, timeline, and stakeholders were defined.
Stakeholder and public engagement were prioritized to ensure representation from diverse groups, including historically underrepresented communities and climate - vulnerable populations.
Data collection and analysis leveraged updated hazard, climate, and vulnerability data from local, state, and federal sources, providing a foundation for enhanced risk and vulnerability assessments. Hazard profiles were updated to include climate projections and cascading impact scenarios. Mitigation strategies were revised and prioritized with a renewed focus on climate resilience and nature-based solutions. Strategies were also developed incorporating people with access and functional needs throughout each component of the AHMP . Finally, methods for monitoring and evaluation of mitigation efforts were defined in the plan maintenance and implementation strategy. Table 2 -1 provides a timeline of the major plan update tasks and milestones over the planning process.
Table 2-1 AMHP Planning Timeline
Date Tasks People Involved
February
2025
Reviewed the 2020 AHMP and identified
components that require update.
OEM AHMP Project
Team
Collected and reviewed existing
documents, including the Threat and
Hazard Identification and Risk
Assessment (THIRA) along with resources
for people with access and functional
OEM AHMP Project
Team
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Date Tasks People Involved
needs and people experiencing
homelessness.
February
2025
Met with state Hazard Mitigation
Planning Team.
OEM AHMP Project
Team, Cal OES
Mitigation Division
Identified the initial list of stakeholders
and ensured organizations that work with
and represent people with access and
functional needs were engaged in the
planning process. External stakeholders
include neighboring communities, local
and regional agencies, and others.
OEM AHMP Project
Team
Conducted 2025 AHMP Kickoff Meetings
with internal stakeholders.
OEM AHMP Project
Team, Internal County
Stakeholder Group, Cal
OES Mitigation Division
Determined hazards to be profiled
including both natural (i.e., wildland fire,
earthquake, etc.) and human-caused (i.e.,
cybersecurity, terrorism, etc.).
OEM AHMP Project
Team, Internal County
Stakeholder Group,
External Stakeholder
Group
Drafted initial sections of the 2025 AHMP . OEM AHMP Project Team
Shared drafts of initial sections with
internal and external stakeholders for
their review.
OEM AHMP Project
Team, Internal County
Stakeholder Group,
External Stakeholder
Group, Cal OES
Mitigation Division
Met with internal and external
stakeholders to obtain feedback on draft
plan elements.
OEM AHMP Project
Team, Internal County
Stakeholder Group,
External Stakeholder
Group, Cal OES
Mitigation Division
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Date Tasks People Involved
March
2025
Developed the Public Outreach
Engagement Plan to collect feedback
from the public on the public draft of the
2025 AHMP .
OEM AHMP Project
Team, Cal OES
Mitigation Division
Drafted subsequent sections of the 2025
AHMP including updating existing
mitigation actions and developing new
mitigation actions as needed.
OEM AHMP Project
Team
Shared drafts of the subsequent sections
with internal and external stakeholders
for their review.
OEM AHMP Project
Team, Internal County
Stakeholder Group,
External Stakeholder
Group, Cal OES
Mitigation Division
Met with internal and external
stakeholders to obtain feedback on
subsequent draft plan elements.
OEM AHMP Project
Team, Internal County
Stakeholder Group,
External Stakeholder
Group, Cal OES
Mitigation Division
April/May
2025
Drafted final sections of the 2025 AHMP
and produced a Final Draft AHMP .
OEM AHMP Project
Team
Shared Final Draft of the AHMP with
internal and external stakeholders for
their review.
OEM AHMP Project
Team, Internal County
Stakeholder Group,
External Stakeholder
Group, Cal OES
Mitigation Division
Met with internal and external
stakeholders to obtain feedback on
subsequent Final Draft AHMP .
OEM AHMP Project
Team, Internal County
Stakeholder Group,
External Stakeholder
Group, Cal OES
Mitigation Division
Produced Final AHMP . OEM AHMP Project
Team
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
2.2 Stakeholder Engagement
Inclusive stakeholder involvement was essential to the planning process. The County ensured broad representation and participation, consistent with the "Whole Community Approach" outlined in the 2023 Operational Area Emergency Operations Plan ( OAEOP). Key stakeholders that comprised the Hazard Mitigation Advisory Committee included:
• County departments such as, but not limited to, Public Works, Public Health, and Regional Planning.
• Cities within the operational area (OA) and neighboring communities through Disaster Management Area Coordinators (DMACs) and city representation. • Non-governmental organizations (NGOs), including environmental and disability advocacy groups.
• Special District partners managing critical infrastructure. • Representatives of academia and school districts.
• Community representatives from Access and Functional Needs (AFN) populations and historically underrepresented populations.
Regular meetings, workshops, and focus groups were held to gather input and refine mitigation strategies. Stakeholders were contacted and invited to participate in the 2025 AHMP planning process through email (please see email template in Appendix B-3). Stakeholder feedback was documented and incorporated into the plan, ensuring diverse perspectives informed the process. Tables 2 -2 and 2 -3 includes a list of representatives of each agency that contributed to the planning process.
Table 2-2 Hazard Mitigation Advisory Committee – Internal Stakeholder Group Department/
Agency
Name Title Planning Contribution
Los Angeles County
Office of
Emergency
Management (OEM
AHMP Project
Team)
Michael
Morin
Emergency
Management
Coordinator
Functioned as lead planners,
led planning meetings,
drafted plan, reviewed
mitigation actions submitted
by departments.
Matthew
Topoozian
Emergency
Management
Coordinator
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Department/
Agency
Name Title Planning Contribution
Karen Haro Emergency
Management
Coordinator
Girma
Wollela
Emergency
Management
Coordinator
Los Angeles County
Department of
Aging and
Disabilities
Mike Tsao Administrative
Deputy
Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Henry
Lopez
Program
Manager
Carin
Anderson
Administrative
Services
Manager
Keilah
Kelso
Administrative
Services
Manager
Los Angeles County
Chief Executive
Office – Anti-
Racism, Diversity,
and Inclusion
Initiative
Cesar
Sanchez
Senior Analyst Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Los Angeles County
Chief Executive
Office – Homeless
Initiative
Onnie
Williams III
Principal Analyst Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Los Angeles County
Chief Sustainability
Office
Matthew
Gosner
Climate
Resilience
Officer
Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Department/
Agency
Name Title Planning Contribution
Los Angeles County
Department of
Beaches and
Harbors
Katharine
de la Cruz
Administrative
Services
Manager
Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Vanessa
Huerta
Safety Officer
Los Angeles County
Department of
Economic
Opportunity
Maritza
Dubie
Human Services
Administrator
Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Los Angeles County
Department of
Health Services
Elaine
Forsyth
Senior Nursing
Instructor
Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Isabel
Sanchez
Disaster
Services
Specialist
Los Angeles County
Department of
Human Resources
Kevin
Halbritter
Deputy
Compliance
Officer
Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Los Angeles County
Department of
Parks and
Recreation
Ramon
Bernal
Disaster
Services Analyst
Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Los Angeles County
Department of
Public Health
Elizabeth
Rubin
Epidemiologist Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Los Angeles County
Department of
Public Social
Services
Manuel
Gutierrez
Disaster
Services Analyst
Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Department/
Agency
Name Title Planning Contribution
Los Angeles County
Department of
Public Works
Joseph
Marble
Disaster
Services Analyst
Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Loni Eazell Disaster
Services
Specialist
Los Angeles County
Department of
Regional Planning
Thuy Hua Supervising
Planner
Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Edgar De
La Torre
Principal
Regional
Planner
Los Angeles County
Fire Department
Nick
Duvally
Deputy Fire
Chief
Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Los Angeles County
Internal Services
Department
Juan-Raul
Cardenas
GIS Analyst Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Los Angeles County
Sheriff’s
Department
Jordan
Kennedy
Sergeant Attended planning meetings,
reviewed section drafts, and
provided feedback.
Table 2-3 Hazard Mitigation Advisory Committee – External Stakeholder Group Department/Agency Planning Contribution
Access Services Attended planning meetings, reviewed section drafts, and provided feedback.
Alzheimer’s Association
California
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
California Governor’s Office
of Emergency Services
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Catholic Charities Attended planning meetings, reviewed section drafts, and provided feedback.
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Department/Agency Planning Contribution
City of Beverly Hills
Emergency Management
Division
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
City of Long Beach Disaster
Preparedness & Emergency
Communications
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
City of Los Angeles
Emergency Management
Department
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Disability Community
Resource Center
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Disaster Management Area
Coordinator, Area A
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Disaster Management Area
Coordinator, Area B
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Disaster Management Area
Coordinator, Area C
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Disaster Management Area
Coordinator, Area D
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Disaster Management Area
Coordinator, Area E
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Disaster Management Area
Coordinator, Area F
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Disaster Management Area
Coordinator, Area G
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Disaster Management Area
Coordinator, Area H
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Eastern Los Angeles
Regional Center
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Emergency Network Los
Angeles
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Habitat for Humanity Attended planning meetings, reviewed section drafts, and provided feedback.
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Department/Agency Planning Contribution
Harbor Regional Center Attended planning meetings, reviewed section drafts, and provided feedback.
Lanterman Regional Center Attended planning meetings, reviewed section drafts, and provided feedback.
Los Angeles County Office of
Education
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Los Angeles County
Sanitation Districts
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Los Angeles Metropolitan
Transportation Authority
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Los Angeles Regional Food
Bank
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Neighborhood Legal
Services of Los Angeles
County
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Puente Hills Habitat
Preservation Authority
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
South Central Los Angeles
Regional Center
Attended planning meetings, reviewed section
drafts, and provided feedback.
Westside Regional Center Attended planning meetings, reviewed section drafts, and provided feedback.
2.3 Public Involvement and Outreach
Public outreach efforts aimed to foster transparency, inclusivity, and fortify public trust.
The County engaged the public during the planning process through multiple media formats to share information and collect feedback taking into account language and other access and functional needs. A rolling outreach strategy was used to ensure that as each section was drafted and reviewed by planning stakeholders, it was concurrently made available for public commentary. To accomplish this, each section was posted to the Los Angeles County Hazard Mitigation Program website as it was completed by the planning team. A survey designed to gauge community perceptions of hazard risks and mitigation priorities was used on the website (Appendix D). This approach ensured that the public was a key partner in every step of the planning process and had a voice as County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
each section was being developed by the planning team. A social media campaign using all LA County OEM social media channels was initiated to direct the public to the survey.
To address equity, targeted outreach efforts focused on engaging historically underrepresented communities and AFN populations, using multilingual and accessible materials and culturally appropriate techniques. Aside from public outreach, stakeholders that work with or represent people with access and functional needs, people experiencing homelessness, and a diverse array of cultural groups were targeted to participate in the Hazard Mitigation Advisory Committee. These measures ensured that the public had m eaningful opportunities to participate in shaping the plan.
2.4 Review and Incorporation of Existing Plans and Reports The planning process included a comprehensive review of existing documents and protocols to ensure consistency and alignment. The 2020 All -Hazards Mitigation Plan served as the foundational document for this update. Additionally, key concepts from the 2023 Operational Area Emergency Operations Plan (OAEOP), such as Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) and disaster management areas, were integrated. The Los Angeles County Climate Vulnerability Assessment provided valuable insights into climate risks and social sensitivity, while local Climate Action Plans ensured alignment with municipal climate adaptation initiatives. Furthermore, the 2021 UASI THIRA (Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment) provided critical data for identifying evolving threats and capability targets, enhancing the accuracy and relevance of the plan. The demographic data from the 2020 U.S. Census was utilized to ensure an accurate representation of Los Angeles County's population, now estimated at over 10 million residents. The demographic breakdown includes 48% Hispanic or Latino, 26% White, 15% As ian, 8% African American, and 3% other, with over 40% speaking a language other than English at home, emphasizing the need for multilingual and culturally appropriate outreach.
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Table 2-4 Existing Plans, Maps, and Reports
Plan, Map, or Report Information to be Incorporated into the 2025 Updated AHMP
Los Angeles County
Operational Area
Emergency Operations
Plan (2023)
Used to inform Section 6: Hazard Identification and
Risk Assessment and Section 7: Mitigation Strategy
Los Angeles County 2035
General Plan (2024)
Safety element mitigation policies used to inform
Section 7 – Mitigation Strategy
Los Angeles County
Comprehensive
Floodplain Management
Plan (2021)
Used to inform Section 6: Hazard Identification and
Risk Assessment and Section 7: Mitigation Strategy
for elements related to flood hazards
County of Los Angeles
Floodplain Management
Plan Progress Report from
(2024)
Used to inform Section 6: Hazard Identification and
Risk Assessment and Section 7: Mitigation Strategy
for elements related to flood hazards
County of Los Angeles
Repetitive Loss Area
Analysis Progress Report
(2021)
Used to inform Section 6: Hazard Identification and
Risk Assessment and Section 7: Mitigation Strategy
for elements related to flood hazards
Los Angeles County 2045
Climate Action Plan (2024)
Used to inform Section 6: Hazard Identification and
Risk Assessment, Section 7: Mitigation Strategy, and
Section 4: Climate Change for elements related to
hazard risk posed by climate change
Los Angeles County Fire
Department Fire Plan
(2023)
Used to inform Section 6: Hazard Identification and
Risk Assessment and Section 7: Mitigation Strategy
for elements related to wildland fire hazards
Our County: Los Angeles
Countywide Sustainability
Plan (2019)
Used to inform Section 6: Hazard Identification and
Risk Assessment, Section 7: Mitigation Strategy, and
Section 4: Climate Change for elements related to
hazard risk posed by climate change
Los Angeles County
Homeless Initiative
Strategy Plan (2022)
Used to inform vulnerable populations information
across all sections of the plan.
Disability Among Adults in
Los Angeles County
(2019)
Used to inform vulnerable populations information
across all sections of the plan.
Southern California
Earthquake Data Center’s
Earthquake Catalogs
(Current as of 2025)
Historical seismic information used in Section 6:
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment.
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
Plan, Map, or Report Information to be Incorporated into the 2025 Updated AHMP
Maritime Tsunami
Response Playbooks:
Background Information
and Guidance for
Response and Hazard
Mitigation Use (2016)
Historical tsunami information used in Section 6:
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment.
FEMA Flood Insurance
Study, Los Angeles
County, California (2020)
Historical flood information used in Section 6:
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment.
U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS): Rainfall and
Landslides in Southern
California (2015)
Historical landslide information used in Section 6:
Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment.
Burn Scar Information and
Maps
Historical fire information used in Section 6: Hazard
Identification and Risk Assessment.
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
3 Community Profile
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
3.1 Los Angeles County Overview
Los Angeles County is the
most populous county in
the United States,
encompassing a diverse
array of communities,
landscapes, and
infrastructure. According to
the most recent census
data, Los Angeles County
has a population of
approximately 10 million
residents of which more than 1 million reside in unincorporated areas. The County’s demographics, geographic features, and economic activities present both unique opportunities and significant challenges for hazard mitigation planning. This updated community profile integrates insights from the 2023 Operation al Area Emergency Operations Plan (OA EOP) and reflects changes in population trends, infrastructure development, and climate risks.
The County Operational Area (OA) consists of all political subdivisions within the geographical boundaries of Los Angeles County. It encompasses five supervisorial districts, eight Disaster Management Areas (DMAs), 88 incorporated cities, 80 school districts, and approximately 142 special districts.
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All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
3.2 Geography and Land Use
Spanning over 4,000 square
miles, Los Angeles County
features diverse terrain,
including coastal plains,
valleys, mountains, islands,
and deserts. The County’s
varied geography includes
multiple microclimates that
influence its exposure to
natural hazards, such as
earthquakes, tsunamis, wildfires, floods, and landslides. Urban areas, particularly the City of Los Angeles and its surrounding metropolitan region, are densely populated and heavily developed. In contrast, rural and unincorporated areas often face unique vulnerabilities due to limited infrastructure and resources. Rural areas include the Angeles and Los Padres National Forests, which have small communities, campgrounds, and day use areas. There are also two islands within the County, Santa Catalina and San Clemente. The County also includes a significant amount of Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) areas where residential and commercial development meets underdeveloped wildland with vegetative fuels. Land use within the County is equally diverse, with a mix of residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, and open spaces.
Recent urban development in densely populated areas has increased impervious surfaces like concrete and asphalt, which retain heat and create urban heat islands (UHI) that are much hotter than nearby rural areas. This phenomenon elevates temperatures, especially in low-income communities lacking green spaces for cooling. Additionally, urbanization affects stormwater management by reducing natural drainage and exacerbating flooding risks in low-lying areas.
These trends underscore the need for sustainable planning strategies, such as promoting green infrastructure, enhancing stormwater systems, and mitigating heat islands through tree planting and reflective materials. The County’s diverse land use must be ca refully managed to reduce vulnerabilities while supporting economic growth and environmental sustainability.
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All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
3.3 Social Vulnerability
Social vulnerability is a crucial component to Los Angeles County’s hazard mitigation planning. The County is home to a diverse population with disparities in income, housing stability, and access to resources. The Los Angeles County Anti -Racism, Diversity, and Inclusion (ARDI) Initiative created a comprehensive Equity Explorer, which is a geospatial tool that explores multiple equity data points across Los Angeles County. The ARDI Equity Explorer includes various layers that visualize social equity, economic opportunity, housing and homelessness, health, justice, built environment, and disaster recovery data. The public can access this data at ceo.lacounty.gov/ardi/tools. Maps created using data from the ARDI Equity Explorer are in Appendix A-8.
The US Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) defines social
vulnerability as a community’s capacity to
prepare for and respond to the stress of
hazardous events ranging from natural
disasters to human caused threats . The
CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index (Figure
3.1) is designed to identify and quantify
communities experiencing social
vulnerability.
The most recent CDC Social Vulnerability
Index score from 2022 for Los Angeles
County indicated a high level of
vulnerability across four themes:
socioeconomic status, household
characteristics, racial and ethnic minority
status, and housing type/transportation.
Vulnerable populations identified for Los Angeles County that will be considered in the AHMP include:
Figure 3.1 CDC Social Vulnerability Index (CDC 2022)
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
• Low-Income Residents :
Individuals living below or near
the poverty line are often
disproportionately affected by
disasters due to limited financial
resources for emergency
preparedness, response, and
recovery.
• People with Access and
Functional Needs (AFN) :
Individuals with Access and
Functional needs have increased
challenges in preparedness,
evacuation, sheltering, accessing
emergency services and recovery.
Access and Functional Needs
include but are not limited to
people who have any combination
in varying degree of: physical
disabilities, intellectual disabilities,
developmental disabilities, mental
health-related issues, visual
impairments, hearing
impairments/deaf, mobility
impairments, or chronic
conditions. AFN also include
older adults, infants and children, people living in institutionalized settings, people living below the poverty line or experiencing homelessness, people with limited English proficiency or are non -English speakers, or people who are transportation disadvantaged.
• People Experiencing Homelessness (PEH) : With an estimated over 75,000 individuals experiencing homelessness, this population is particularly at risk during extreme weather events and other disasters.
• Immigration Status: Fear of engaging with government services based on immigration status can prevent residents from accessing critical resources.
Figure 3. 3 Breakdown of Language at Home in Los Angeles County (OAEOP 2023)
Figure 3.2 Disability Statistics in Los Angeles County (OAEOP 2023) County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
• Limited English Proficiency: Over 40% of residents speak a language other than English at home, highlighting the need for multilingual and culturally appropriate outreach efforts. Language accessibility is critical to ensure all residents and visitors can obtain information and services during a disaster. See Figure 3.3 for a breakdown of languages spoken at home in Los Angeles County not including American Sign Language.
The figure below highlights certain variables in Los Angeles County that may increase vulnerability to emergencies and disasters. To address these vulnerabilities, the County’s mitigation planning includes equitable strategies designed to reduce risk and enhance resilience among these populations. Targeted outreach, improved access to resources, preparedness education events, and collaboration with community organizations are integral to these efforts.
Figure 3.4 Los Angeles County Vulnerability Variables (OAEOP 2023) County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) maintains the National Risk Index, a mapping tool that assesses 18 possible hazards a jurisdiction is susceptible to in combination with the amount of loss that could result from those hazards. Los Angeles Cou nty ranks as the community with the most risk in the United States according to the FEMA National Risk Index. According to the National Risk Index, hazards with the highest risk for Los Angeles County include earthquake, wildfires, extreme heat, flooding, high winds, and landslides.
3.4 Economy and Critical Infrastructure
Los Angeles County is a global economic hub, hosting industries such as entertainment, technology, manufacturing, and international trade. The Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach collectively form one of the world’s busiest trade gateways, under scoring the importance of protecting critical infrastructure fro m hazards including those exacerbated by climate change. Critical facilities provide services and functions essential to a community, especially during and after a disaster.
Common types of cr itical facilities include but are not limited to fire stations, police stations, hospitals, schools, and utilities. Critical facilities may also include places that can be used for sheltering, cooling centers, staging purposes, or other large public gathering spots such as community centers and libraries. Critical facilities include those operated by non-governmental and business partners vital for redevelopment or Figure 3.5 FEMA National Risk Index (2025)
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All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
economic security. When these are affected by a disaster, the County provides businesses and workers impacted by the disaster with vital information and resources.
This allows them to maneuver effectively through disaster response toward recovery using its network of job centers and business hubs.
Other critical infrastructure includes the facilities and industries that enable all facets of society to function, including but not limited to the following community lifelines:
• Safety and Security : The myriad of local law enforcement, fire and rescue, emergency management, schools, and other government services that maintain public safety and security.
• Communications: The interconnected network of infrastructure owners and operators of communications systems such as internet, telephone, cellular and other communications towers, cable, satellite, and more. • Transportation Networks: The County’s extensive network of roadways, highways, railways, transit systems, and airports is essential for daily operations and disaster response.
• Energy Systems: Power generation facilities, energy distribution networks, and pipelines are vulnerable to multiple types of hazards and threats. • Water and Wastewater Systems: Drought conditions and aging infrastructure at the over 220 different water agencies in Los Angeles County pose risks to water availability and quality.
• Healthcare Facilities : Over 100 hospitals and numerous clinics serve the County, requiring robust contingency plans to maintain operations during disasters.
• Food and Shelter: The vast system of food production (i.e., agriculture), distribution, and retail along with community housing or sheltering.
3.5 Climate and Environmental Conditions
Los Angeles County faces escalating risks from climate change, significantly impacting its environment, economy, and communities. These challenges include rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, more frequent and severe extreme weather events, and their cascading effects. These risks highlight the critical need for adaptive planning to protect vulnerable populations, infrastructure, and natural resources. Key climate - County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
related considerations referenced in the Los Angeles County Climate Action Plan that will be addressed in this AHMP include, but are not limited to:
• Extreme Weather Events: Extreme temperatures in the Los Angeles region are expected to increase. Both dry and wet extremes are projected to intensify, leading to longer dry periods than historically experienced. These dry periods are expected to be followed by significantly wett er conditions, including atmospheric rivers bringing more intense rainfall. This pattern may result in increased water scarcity, mudslides, and flooding.
• Sea-Level Rise: Coast al communities are at heightened risk of flooding and erosion, threatening homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure. Sea level rise can exacerba te the impacts of high tides, storm sur ges, and heavy pr ecipita tion, and can lead to increased coastal flooding and shoreline erosion. • Increasing Wildfire Risk : Climate change has intensified wildfire seasons, particularly in the County’s mountainous , wildland urban interface (WUI), and new and undeveloped regions. Wildfires are projected to increase in frequency and intensity including in some areas not historically impacted by wildfire.
In response, the County has prioritized integrating climate adaptation strategies into its hazard mitigation planning, as outlined in the Climate Vulnerability Assessment and the OAE O P.
3.6 Regional Collaboration and Planning Efforts
Los Angeles County’s size and complexity necessitate s collaboration with numerous jurisdictions, agencies, and community organizations. The County is designated as the Operational Area Coordinator and functions as an intermediate level in the State of California’s Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS). In accordance with SEMS, the County serves as the communications and coordination link between local governments within Los Angeles County and the state government. Partnerships with academic institutions, non-profits, and private sector stakeholders support data collection, public engagement, and innovative mitigation strategies. Additionally, the County has also adopted Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) as the primary emergency management coordination structure. ESFs group function-specific stakeholders who will coordinate throughout all phases of emergency management, County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
including function-specific mitigation activities. For more information on regional emergency management collaboration and planning, reference the OAE O P.
3.7 Implications for Hazard Mitigation Planning
Understanding the community is a critical aspect in hazard mitigation planning. This community profile will inform key considerations in subsequent sections of the AHMP including but not limited to the following:
• Targeted Outreach: Include vulnerable populations and the business community in the planning process through equitable public outreach. • Infrastructure Resilience: Prioritize the protection of critical infrastructure, including ports and transportation networks, energy systems, and water and wastewater systems, among others.
• Climate Adaptation: Develop strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change, focusing on urban heat islands, sea-level rise, and wildfire risks. • Regional Coordination: Strengthen direct collaboration within the OA between the County, local jurisdictions, special districts, unified school districts, the business community and cross -sector non- governmental partners to enhance awareness, preparedness, and response capabilities.
• Transparent & Open Communication: Ensure communications are accessible, and clear to advance public trust and safety. Develop dashboards to demonstrate progress.
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
4 Climate Change
County of Los Angeles
All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
4.1 Climate Change Overview
Climate change refers to the changing effect of the Earth's climate system over time, including changes in temperature, precipitation, and wind patterns. Climate change had significant impacts on Los Angeles County, affecting various aspects of life, environment, infrastructure, and sustainable development , and presents increasing risks from amplified hazards and changing baselines (e.g., sea level) into the future. The rate of climate change has significantly accelerated over the last three decades and trends continues. This plan addresses the effects of climate change related to disasters within the County and strategies to mitigate risks, focusing on preparedness, resilience and equity.
Climate change contributes to more frequent and intense disasters, such as floods, wildfires, drought and excessive heat. Rising temperatures and changing weather patterns pose health risks, like heat-related illnesses, respiratory issues, and the spread of diseases. Hazard mitigation efforts aim to reduce the impacts and effects of greater hazards due to climate change. The economic impact of climate change has been substantial, affecting industries such as agriculture, tourism, and insurance with increasing risks due to accelerating climate changes.
Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions are the main driver of climate change, which causes increased frequency, duration, and severity of extreme weather and climate-related disasters. Climate change exacerbates air pollution, leading to poor air quality and health issues. GHG emissions from residential buildings, commercial and institutional facilities, manufacturing industries and construction, energy industries, oil and natural gas systems. transportation, fossil energy, wildfires and other sources contribute to increased particulate matter and other pollutants in the air.
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All-Hazards Mitigation Plan
4.2 Integrating Climate Change into Hazard Profiles
Integrating climate change into
hazard profiles involves assessing the
current and future impacts of climate
change on various hazards and
incorporating this information into
planning and mitigation strategies.
This section highlights how climate
change relates to these hazards and
how the county is addressing climate
change through hazard mitigation
efforts which help protect the county’s
residents and economies from the
adverse effects of climate changes and climate-amplified events.
4.2.1 Extreme Heat
Increasing temperatures and high heat events is one of the most conspicuous results of and a direct correlation between GHG pollution and climate change. Excessive temperatures in the Los Angeles region are expected to increase significantly more very hot days and warm nights. In addition to increasing baseline temperatures and extreme heat due to climate change, heat islands exacerbate temperatures and high heat events. As development occurs and darker paved surfaces replace open land and vegetation, these areas become warmer forming an “island” of heat. Los Angeles County experiences more frequent and excessive heat due to climate change. This is currently a major risk and with unmitigated GHG emissions increasing heat will lead to even greater health issues, increased energy demand for cooling, and other strains on infrastructure.
4.2.2 Flooding
Flooding in Los Angeles County occurs due to extreme rainfall events causing flash floods, riverine flooding, and increased surface water. Coastal areas in Los Angeles County are vulnerable to sea - level rise (SLR), which exacerbates coastal hazards like floods, storm surges, and chronic erosion. Other related hazards include flooding near Figure 4.1 Sources of GHG Emissions from within Los Angeles County (LA County 2024; 2045 Climate Action Plan)
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All-Hazards Mitigation Plan