Tropical Storm Hilary Watch: Where To Find Sandbags In Hollywood

HOLLYWOOD, CA — For the first time since the 1930s, Southern California will be hit by a tropical storm this weekend that will bring heavy rains and flood risks — officials say there's a few ways residents should prepare, including by picking up sandbags for flood control.

The National Weather Service predicted that up to 7 inches of rain will fall and winds will reach up to 50 mph along the coast and 60 mph across mountains. A flood watch will be in effect for parts of Los Angeles County beginning on Sunday afternoon.

Weather officials have warned that flooding might prompt evacuation orders or road closures due to dangerous conditions. Heavy rain has the potential to turn normally dry or weak waterways into "dangerous rivers," that could lead to debris flows, the NWS said.

Those living in low-lying areas or other areas prone to flooding to should prepare sandbags in order to mitigate issues. The bags can be used to divert water away from structures, officials say.

Sandbags are available to Los Angeles residents at every Los Angeles Fire Department station. Sand is only available at some fire stations, including these in Hollywood:

• Fire Station 27, 1327 North Cole Ave. (near Cahuenga and Sunset boulevards)
• Fire Station 82, 5769 W. Hollywood Blvd. (near Hollywood Boulevard and Wilton Place)
• Fire Station 41, 1439 North Gardner Ave. (near Sunset Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue)
• Fire Station 97, 8021 Mulholland Drive (Laurel Canyon)

Each household can pick up a maximum of 25 bags.

Collecting sand from the beach is illegal.

More information is available on LAFD's website.