LOS ANGELES – The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is taking preventive steps to minimize the potential impact of storm events hitting the southern California region this week.

Caltrans is conducting a variety of maintenance tasks to minimize the potential for flooding, mud and debris flows, particularly along State Routes 33 and 150 in the Thomas Fire burn area, and Interstate 210 in the La Tuna Fire burn area.

These tasks include the following:

• Checking and clearing culverts, detention basins, drains and inlets.
• Ensuring pump houses are operational and in working order, preparing water pumps and sand bags that can be used as needed, installing “flooded” signs mounted on barricades that can be placed in affected areas.
• Stocking up on cold mix asphalt and base materials to repair wash outs.
• Utilizing straw blankets, plastic sheeting, mulch and other methods to stabilize slopes and control erosion, placing sandbags and temporary concrete barriers (commonly known as “K-rails”) along burned slopes to help prevent loose dirt and rocks from falling onto highways.

In the event of slides, flooding or similar conditions, drivers should try to use alternate routes and follow instructions from local emergency officials.

During inclement weather, drivers should plan ahead, allow extra time for travel and use caution on roadways, which will be slick and require longer stopping distances.

Be sure to follow us on Twitter @CaltransDist7 for any updates on freeway or highway closures, as well as Caltrans’ QuickMap at quickmap.dot.ca.gov, or the free app available on Google Play or the App Store.