Forest roads closed from storm

Storms on Friday and today caused dirt, mud, and debris to slide down onto part of Santa Anita Canyon Road leading to Chanty Flat, blocking part of the roadway, according to an Arcadia Police Dept. advisory to avoid the road due to hazardous vehicular and pedestrian travel conditions.

Arcadia Public Works officials have requested the closure of Santa Anita Canyon road for the remainder of the weekend since, because of the ongoing threat of rainfall, crews will be unable to safely work on opening the road until dryer conditions exist.

The news comes after the closing of public access to all County roads within the Station Fire burn area at noon on Friday by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works in anticipation of forecast snow and icy road conditions. That included the following roads closed to all traffic with the exception of emergency vehicles, including Public Works personnel:

1. Angeles Forest Highway from Aliso Canyon Road to Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2)

2. Big Tujunga Canyon Road from Big Tujunga Dam to Angeles Forest Highway, and

3. Upper Big Tujunga Canyon Road

Local access will not be permitted until the road closures are lifted. Once roads can be made safe for travel, they will be reopened. To enable snow-enthusiasts to reach fresh powder, Public Works will prioritize the opening of the following roads:

1. Big Tujunga Canyon Road from Big Tujunga Dam to Angeles Forest Highway, and

2. Angeles Forest Highway from Big Tujunga Canyon Road to Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2)

Sunday night update (Feb. 27):

The following roads were re-opened at 4 p.m. Sunday:

1. Big Tujunga Canyon Road from Big Tujunga Dam to Angeles Forest Highway

2. Angeles Forest Highway from Upper Big Tujunga Canyon Road to Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2)

3. Upper Big Tujunga Canyon Road from Angeles Crest Highway (SR-2) to Angeles Forest Highway

The Angeles Forest Highway from Aliso Canyon Road to Upper Big Tujunga Canyon Road REMAINS CLOSED. County Public Works crews are continuing to work on this section of the highway to make it safe for travel.

Residents can also visit the CARE website at www.dpwcare.org for further updates on road conditions or sign up through Public Works’ eNotify system to receive instant notifications.

Residents, business owners and persons with access or functional needs may also call 2-1-1 for LA County information and referral services regarding post disaster resources that are available to those affected by the floods and debris and mud flow. The toll-free 2-1-1 number is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. 211 LA County Services can also be accessed by visiting www.211la.org

C.A.R.E. – Coordinated Agency Recovery Effort http://dpw.lacounty.gov/care/

— By Scott Hettrick