LOS ANGELES — Extreme rainfall rates brought flooding to areas east of Los Angeles on Friday evening. Some spots picked up more than an inch of rain in just minutes. The heaviest rain fell across communities near Diamond Bar, La Habra, Fullerton, and Anaheim. Rain that intense can quickly overwhelm storm drains and send water rushing into streets.
Heaviest Rain Near Diamond Bar and La Habra
Rainfall estimates showed a narrow band of very heavy rain stretching from near West Covina and Diamond Bar south toward La Habra. The highest amounts appeared near the State Route 57 corridor. Yellow shading near La Habra pointed to the most intense totals in the region.
Heavy rain also fell across hilly areas between La Puente and Pomona. Water running off those slopes can rush quickly into neighborhoods below. Streets in low spots were at the greatest risk of flooding.
Fullerton and Anaheim Also Soaked
The band of heavy rain continued south into Fullerton and Anaheim. Areas near Villa Park and the State Route 241 corridor also saw solid rainfall. Lighter rain spread as far south as Garden Grove and Santa Ana.
Areas farther west stayed mostly dry. Downey, Norwalk, Lakewood, and Long Beach saw little rain on the estimate map. The sharp edge of the rain shows how narrow and focused the downpours were.
Rain Fell Too Fast for Drains
When more than an inch of rain falls in minutes, drainage systems cannot keep up. Water pools on roads, fills intersections, and can rush down curbs like small rivers. Freeway on-ramps and underpasses are especially likely to flood…