Los Angeles County began the holiday week on a dry note, but a forecast of widespread rain on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day has prompted officials to prepare for a wet weekend. A video of the situation was broadcast on NBC4 News at 6 a.m. on December 22, 2025, showing early signs of the impending storm.
Rain Outlook for the Holiday Week
Rain is expected to start on Tuesday in the Los Angeles area and will continue through the weekend, with the wettest day projected to be Wednesday. The forecast calls for less than a half-inch of rain on Tuesday before rates pick up on Tuesday night and Wednesday. During the height of the storm on Wednesday, hourly rain rates could exceed 1 inch per hour, making the day the most intense of the week.
Road Closures in Malibu and Topanga
The city of Malibu has announced several closures that will begin at 8 p.m. on Tuesday.
- Malibu Canyon Road: A soft closure (emergency vehicles only) will affect the stretch between Francisco Ranch Road and Adamson Flats Road, as well as the area just south of Piuma Road.
- Tuna Canyon Road: A full closure will be in place between approximately 2870 Tuna Canyon Road (the gate) and Pacific Coast Highway.
In unincorporated Topanga, a 3.6-mile portion of Topanga Canyon Boulevard/State Route 27 between Pacific Coast Highway and Grand View Drive will close at 9 p.m. on Tuesday.
City of Malibu Statement
“Both roads will remain closed until rain subsides and crews can safely clear debris and reopen the roadways,” the city of Malibu said in a statement. “Drive cautiously, watch for mud, rock and water in the roads, keep headlights on, watch for workers and work vehicles. Come to a complete stop at any malfunctioning traffic signal under CA law.”
Flood Watch and Hazards
A flood watch was issued for Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday evening for much of Los Angeles County. The watch highlights the potential for mud and debris flows in foothill and mountain areas, including recent burn scars that may be more vulnerable to erosion. Residents in the affected zones should be aware of these risks and monitor local advisories.
What Residents Should Do
- Drive cautiously: Expect slippery conditions and possible rock or mud deposits on the roadway.
- Keep headlights on: Visibility can be reduced during heavy rain and flash flooding.
- Watch for workers and work vehicles: Construction crews may be clearing debris during the storm.
- Stop at malfunctioning traffic signals: If a signal is not functioning, comply with California law by coming to a complete stop.
Video Broadcast
The NBC4 News video, aired at 6 a.m. on December 22, 2025, provided a live look at the early stages of the storm and the road closures. Viewers could see the city’s efforts to prepare for the expected rainfall and the impact on local infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- Rain will begin Tuesday, intensifying on Wednesday with rates exceeding 1 inch per hour.
- Malibu Canyon Road will have a soft closure, while Tuna Canyon Road will be fully closed until the storm subsides.
- A 3.6-mile segment of Topanga Canyon Boulevard will close at 9 p.m. Tuesday.
- A flood watch is in effect for Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday evening across much of Los Angeles County.
- Residents are urged to drive cautiously, keep headlights on, and obey traffic signals during the storm.
The holiday week in Los Angeles County is set to be dominated by rain, road closures, and a flood watch. Officials have issued clear guidance for drivers and residents to stay safe as the storm unfolds.
