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Southern Californians should prepare for the arrival of Hurricane Hilary, which is expected to weaken to a tropical storm as it approaches the region this weekend. The storm is predicted to bring rare and dangerous flash flooding and tropical storm-force winds to the area.

Southern California is bracing for a significant weather event as a powerful storm system makes its way toward the region. Residents of South Pasadena, San Marino, and Pasadena, & Highland Park are advised to be prepared for severe weather conditions.

The National Weather Service has issued storm warnings for the affected areas, predicting heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flash floods. The storm is expected to make landfall within the next 24 hours, and its effects could last several days.

Officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions to protect their homes and property. Local authorities recommend securing loose outdoor items, clearing storm drains, and checking on vulnerable neighbors and family members. It is also a good idea to stock up on essentials like water, food, batteries, and medicines in case of power outages or other emergencies.

Travel is likely to be affected, with roads prone to flooding and debris, as well as the possibility of flight delays or cancellations at nearby airports. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.

Tropical Storm Watch Issued as Hurricane Hilary Approaches Southern California

Current Watches and Warnings:

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for:

– Catalina and Santa Barbara Islands – Antelope Valley Foothills – San Gabriel Mountains – Interstate 5 Corridor – Santa Clarita Valley – Highway 14 Corridor

Storm Information:

As of now, Hurricane Hilary is located approximately 1150 miles south-southeast of Avalon, CA, and about 1190 miles south-southeast of Los Angeles Airport, CA. The storm is moving northwest at 10 mph and currently has an intensity of 145 mph.

Situation Overview:

Hilary is forecast to bring life-threatening rainfall flooding to parts of Los Angeles, Ventura, and possibly Santa Barbara Counties, with the most dangerous conditions expected in the mountains. Flash flooding is highly likely in these areas. Tropical-storm-force winds are anticipated Sunday into Monday, particularly affecting Catalina Island and Santa Barbara Island, as well as the mountains of Los Angeles County.

Potential Impacts:

– Flooding Rain: Residents should prepare for major rainfall flooding that may prompt evacuations and rescues. Small streams, creeks, and ditches may become dangerous rivers, with destructive runoff potentially causing rockslides, mudslides, and debris flows. Streets and parking lots could become flooded, and driving conditions are expected to be dangerous. There may be road and bridge closures, with some structures potentially being weakened or washed out.

– Wind: Hazardous wind may cause damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Lightweight objects may be blown about. Many large tree limbs could be broken off, and some trees may be uprooted, particularly where trees are shallow-rooted. Some fences and roadway signs could be blown over. A few roads may become impassable from debris, especially within urban or heavily wooded areas. Hazardous driving conditions are anticipated on bridges and elevated roadways. Scattered power and communications outages are expected.

– Surge: Coastal flooding is possible, especially around Catalina Island and Long Beach.

– Tornadoes: Little to no impacts are anticipated at this time across Southwest California.

Precautionary/Preparedness Actions:

– Evacuations: Listen to local officials for recommended preparedness actions, including possible evacuation. If ordered to evacuate, do so immediately.

– Other Preparedness Information: Now is the time to check your emergency plan and emergency supplies kit and take necessary actions to protect your family and secure your home or business.

Remember, do not focus solely on the exact forecast track, as hazards such as flooding rain, damaging wind gusts, storm surge, and tornadoes can extend well away from the center of the storm. If in a place vulnerable to high wind or flooding, plan to move to safe shelter.

Stay tuned to local news and weather channels for updates and additional information on Hurricane Hilary’s approach and potential impacts.

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

PCC Foothill Campus - Community Education Center event highlights noncredit courses that are free of charge.

Friends, neighbors, and families from across the West San Gabriel Valley will come to PCC’s Community Education Center for a special event on Wednesday – and it’s set to be a fun afternoon.

The “Friends and Family Resource Fair” will feature information and activities related to PCC’s free noncredit courses, which provide continuing education and pre-college opportunities to people of all ages. Noncredit programs are an excellent way to begin the education journey prior to enrollment in credit-bearing courses.

Courses in PCC’s noncredit division are free to the public.

In addition academic information, the event will allow local residents to get assistance with financial aid, registration, and counseling at the Foothill Campus, and there will also be free food and giveaways. The event is sponsored by PCC’s Asian Pacific Islander Desi American organization.

Guests are welcome to visit PCC’s Community Education Center from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the PCC Foothill Campus, 3035 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena, 91107. For more information visit pasadena.edu/noncredit.

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About Pasadena City College

Since 1924, Pasadena City College (www.pasadena.edu) has provided the San Gabriel Valley with a high-quality, innovative learning environment that inspires student success. Our academic programs encompass a variety of degrees, transfer programs, certificates of achievement, and occupational skills certificates that challenge students and support progress toward their goals. PCC is consistently one of the top colleges in the state for transfers to the CSU and UC systems.

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Although star-studded neighborhoods such as Beverly Hills and Bel-Air have become symbols for the concentration of extreme wealth in Southern California, there are other neighborhoods here that are just as lavish but keep a low profile.

In the San Gabriel Valley, that market is San Marino, which was envisioned as the exclusive domain of the well-to-do from its inception.

Its founders — railroad magnate Henry Huntington and George S. Patton, a lawyer whose son would find glory on the battlefields of World War II — incorporated the city as a preemptive strike against annexation by neighboring communities.

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Huntington was a longtime resident of the area. He had purchased a 500-acre working ranch where he built a palatial home and gardens, thanks to the proceeds of his vast interurban rail network, which knitted together the cities of the Southland decades before the first miles of freeway were laid down.

Patton was a scion of a family with a long tradition of military service and had come west to California at age 21. Following his marriage to the daughter of Benjamin D. Wilson, he and his wife became heirs to the pioneering Californian’s Lake Vineyard estate, which abutted Huntington’s ranch-turned-pleasure-garden.

Huntington brought the younger man into his circle, and eventually into his employ, and in 1913 the two would spearhead a campaign for cityhood to prevent their land holdings from falling under the jurisdiction of elected officials who did not share their extreme aversion to any type of land use aside from the building of luxury single-family homes. They were, in many respects, L.A.’s first NIMBYs.

Their philosophy lives, as enshrined on the city’s official website: “San Marino was formed to … control the growth and activities of the city” so that “property values will be protected by stringent zoning regulations.”

In that, they’ve been wildly successful. San Marino is the picture of genteel suburbanity; restrictive zoning has resulted in a cohesive environment free of the endless strip malls and stucco McMansions that plague parts of Southern California.

And true to their credo, the city’s elected officials have managed growth in such a way as to boost property values to the point where it’s a rare home there that lists for less than $2 million.

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Neighborhood highlights

Arts and culture: Henry Huntington’s estate is now a much-loved art museum and public garden, where generations of Angelenos’ visiting mothers-in-law have been treated to a stroll and high tea.

A growing diversity: Out — San Marino’s well-deserved reputation as a WASP enclave. In — the city’s burgeoning population of ethnic Chinese, many of whom hail from Taiwan.

Academic powerhouse: The San Marino Unified School District is among the best in the region, with top-rated schools from elementary through high school.

Neighborhood challenges

Sticker shock: San Marino is the most expensive market by far in the San Gabriel Valley, with prices as high as $13 million for homes near Lacy Park.

Renters unwelcome: Unless you are leasing a luxury home, that is. Otherwise, the total lack of apartments in the city means that many San Marino workers can’t afford to live there.

Expert insight

Marlene Evans of Coldwell Banker Residential said the city’s emphasis on maintaining its historical charm has reached the point where residents must post notices if they’re adding onto their homes.

“People are required to detail the scope of their project so neighbors aren’t stunned if a new garage or a second story goes up,” Evans said. “It’s all out there. No secrets.”

Because of this strict adherence to preserving its aesthetic, Evans said the neighborhood has been able to avoid overbuilding. As other areas have allowed large homes on small lots, San Marino has managed to keep its historic feel, showcasing its array of English and Spanish-style builds.

“It’s an old city, and change doesn’t come very quickly,” Evans said. “There are only 42 homes for sale right now, so if you’re looking to make an offer, have your finances in order. It’s a very competitive market.”

Market snapshot

In the 91108 ZIP Code, based on seven sales, the median sales price for single-family homes in January was $2.35 million, down 7.5% year over year, according to CoreLogic.

Report card

Each of the four public schools in San Marino posted a score of at least 930 in the 2013 Academic Performance Index. Huntington Middle scored the highest, 977, and Carver Elementary scored 967.

Valentine Elementary and San Marino High scored 952 and 932, respectively.

Times staff writer Jack Flemming contributed to this report.

[email protected]

MORE FROM HOT PROPERTY

California Mobilizes Ahead of Hurricane Hilary, Prepare for A Major Storm is the word from the Governor's Office

Hurricane Hilary, currently a powerful Category 4 storm, is expected to make landfall in Southern California over the weekend and into early next week, bringing with it the potential for moderate to heavy showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds. As the state braces for what is forecasted to be the wettest tropical cyclone in California history,

Governor Gavin Newsom is urging residents in the storm’s path to take precautions now ahead of the storm.

“California has thousands of people on the ground working hand-in-hand with federal and local personnel to support communities in Hurricane Hilary’s path with resources, equipment and expertise. We’re mobilizing all of government as we prepare and respond to this unprecedented storm”, the governor said.

The first-ever Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for California as the storm is expected to bring a year’s worth of rain to some parts of Southern California.

Residents in South Pasadena, San Marino, Pasadena, and Highland Park are encouraged to prepare for variable precipitation and wind intensity as the hurricane approaches the region.

“We should never underestimate the power of Mother Nature,” said Governor Newsom. “California is coordinating with federal and local governments to support communities as they prepare for this unprecedented storm. Heed warnings from local authorities, be ready, and stay informed.”

Governor Newsom is headed to Southern California to be present during the storm’s landfall. The State Operations Center at the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) has been activated and is currently coordinating across state agencies to monitor incoming impacts from rain, wind, potential flash flooding, and power outages.

In coordination with local authorities, the state is prepositioning resources, including swift water rescue teams, California National Guard teams, and flood fighting tools. Efforts are also underway to work with community-based organizations to protect vulnerable unhoused individuals. Additionally, California is staffing highway maintenance crews around the clock to ensure roadway safety during the storm.

Here are the top five things residents can do to stay safe during Hurricane Hilary:

1. Stay Connected: Dial 3-1-1 for help or information, and call 911 in case of a critical emergency. Stay informed by signing up for emergency alerts, including warnings and evacuation notices, at CalAlerts.org. Check in with loved ones and neighbors.

2. Prepare for High Winds and Ocean Surges: Remove dead trees, overhanging branches, and loose roofing material. Secure unsecured objects from patios and balconies. During a high wind event, take cover next to a building or under shelter, and stay away from windows and elevated areas.

3. Avoid the Ocean: The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory and is urging beachgoers to stay out of the water as Hurricane Hilary will create strong breaking waves, shore breaks, and strong longshore and rip currents.

4. Travel Safely: Avoid non-essential travel during the peak of the storm expected Sunday and Monday. If driving is necessary, download the QuickMap app or visit QuickMap (ca.gov) for up-to-date information on road conditions. Avoid walking, swimming, or driving through flood waters.

5. Prepare for Power Outages: Take inventory of items that rely on electricity, keep devices charged, and plan for alternative power sources, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member and plan for potential water outages.

Residents are reminded to always follow the guidance of local authorities, including evacuation orders, road closures, and other official notices.

This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

Ron Sarian, Adjunct Professor of USC Gould School of Law, nationally recognized leader, lecturer, panel member in cybersecurity,

RON SARIAN, USC LAW PROFESSOR OF INFORMATION PRIVACY AND GLOBAL CHIEF PRIVACY OFFICER FOR INGRAM MICRO TO SPEAK ABOUT CYBER SECURITY ON FEBRUARY 2, 2023

Ron Sarian, Adjunct Professor of Information Privacy at the USC Gould School of Law and Global Chief Privacy Officer for Ingram Micro will speak to the USC Trojan Affiliates about Cyber Security on Thursday, February 2, 2023 at a private home in La Canada. The meeting will begin with social time at 6:30 p.m. followed by the program at 7:00 p.m.

After spending over two decades as an AV-Preeminent rated Los Angeles business litigator, Ron was recruited to become General Counsel for eHarmony in 2013. There, he provided strategic legal advice to the C-Suite and assured global compliance in all areas of data privacy, including GDPR. He implemented robust, best practices cybersecurity measures, including Incident Response Plans, as well as Privacy Policies, Terms of Service, Safety Tips, and Disaster Recovery Plans.

After five productive years at eHarmony, Ron became General Counsel at OilR, an early stage blockchain stable coin company, where he advised in areas such as Whitepaper, intellectual property, corporate structure, contracts, securities, SEC and FINRA issues, KYC/AML, and capital raising.

Ron concurrently joined Constangy, Brooks, Smith & Prophete, a national Top Tier law firm, where he specialized in information privacy and ADA, Title III website access law, and chaired their Digital Workplace and Data Privacy Practice Group.

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Ron was asked to join the faculty at the USC Gould School of Law in December of 2021 as an Adjunct Professor of Information Privacy Law. He has just finished teaching his second semester and will return for the Spring semester.

In November of 2022, Ron was recruited to join Ingram Micro, a multi-national Fortune 100 tech company, as its Global Chief Privacy Officer. There, he will be in charge of all privacy compliance worldwide.

As a nationally recognized thought leader, lecturer, panel member in privacy, cybersecurity, and information governance, Ron has served as a keynote speaker and faculty member for ALM Legaltech and cyberSecure, the Silicon Valley Association of General Counsel All Hands Meeting, among others. His select panel discussions have included Cybersecurity: Bloomberg Big Law Business–West, DLA Piper’s Global Perspectives on Emerging Trends in Cybersecurity Roundtable, the Georgetown Cybersecurity Law Institute, the Peer 150 Cyber Attic at Google Ventures, and the WSJ Pro Cybersecurity panel. Ron’s profile has been featured in the Los Angeles Daily Journal, The Recorder, Corporate Counsel, and Modern Counsel.

He has been published over thirty-three times, including in CIOReview, The Cybersecurity Law Report, the Risk Management Monitor, SHRM, and Lexology. His publications have focused on privacy and cybersecurity. He also has four published legal opinions from his years as a business litigator covering privacy, regulatory, jurisdictional, and Federal consumer class action issues.

Ron has been married for thirty-seven years to his wonderful wife, Trojan Karen Nahigian Sarian, and they have three successful Trojan children to boot!

USC Trojan Affiliates, a women’s organization located in the San Gabriel Valley, supports the University of Southern California and welcomes all interested women to attend its meetings and events. All women parents, alumni, and friends of USC are encouraged to attend. Gentleman, are of course, welcome to attend the meeting as well. The group usually meets five times a year at various homes and locations within the San Gabriel Valley and hosts additional social and cultural events while raising needed scholarship funds for USC students. It currently supports ten students who attended local San Gabriel Valley high schools. The application deadline for the 2023-2024 year is February 1, 2023 and additional information is available via email at [email protected].

USC Trojan Affiliates is in its seventh year of contributing money to its first scholarship endowment fund of $100,000, (now well over the initial funded amount) using these dollars to support its scholars. Money is also raised from selling unique USC products --- jewelry, scarves, clothing, tablecloths, aprons, handmade signs, and more. Members also volunteer at the Pasadena Showcase House to earn funds and participate in the USC Day of SCervice, USC Homecoming, Town and Gown of USC Boutique, Swim With Mike, Trojan Affiliates Holiday Boutique, and other programs to support the University and its students.

If a community member has an interest in being a speaker at an upcoming Trojan Affiliates meeting, please contact Program Chairman, Jacqueline Goodman, at [email protected].

Second year Trojan Affiliates President, Ann Palmer of Sierra Madre, looks forward to welcoming prospective members to this meeting.

For information, reservations, and the location for the meeting, please contact Trojan Affiliates Reservations Chairman Sarah Sismondo by January 31st at [email protected] or (626) 303-7284.

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