Road Closure Advisory for Angeles Forest

December 3, 2009                                          MEDIA CONTACT: Bob Spencer, Chief of Public Affairs, DPW

(626) 703-7400

Patrick Chandler, PIO, Caltrans,

(213) 897-3630

 

Angeles National Forest Roads may close due to storm forecasts

 

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works has advised that all County roads within the Station Fire burn area may be closed to public access later this week in the event of forecasted rainstorms.

 

Public Works, the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), the U.S. Forest Service, and the National Weather Service are monitoring an approaching cold front that is threatening the burn area with storm activity, possibly as early as Sunday, December 6, 2009.

 

“We are watching the situation extremely closely and will close the roads as a safety precaution if and when rainfall is imminent due to the potential for debris flows,” said Bob Spencer, Public Works’ Chief of Public Affairs.

 

Spencer said burn area residents and commuters should stay tuned to radio or TV broadcasts for further information relating to the possible closure.  Residents and commuters can also receive closure alerts via email by registering on the eNotify system on the Coordinated Agency Recovery Effort (CARE) website at www.dpwcare.gov.  County road closure information is also available on Public Works’ website at www.dpw.lacounty.gov.

 

The closures would affect Angeles Forest Highway, Big Tujunga Canyon Road, and Upper Big Tujunga Canyon Road.  The roads would be closed to all traffic except emergency vehicles and Public Works personnel.  The roads would reopen once the storm system has passed and debris and damage inspections have been completed.

 

"Safety is also Caltrans number one priority and we are also monitoring the situation," said Caltrans PIO, Patrick Chandler.  "We continue to work closely with the CHP and the County and will close the Angeles Crest Highway (State Route 2) if the road is deemed unsafe."

 

County officials urged residents who reside within the burn area to seek alternative accommodations in advance of any declared road closure and advised hillside and foothill residents to be on high alert for possible rock falls and debris flows.

 

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