Southern California is no stranger to natural disasters. The region has experienced its fair share of extreme weather events, from earthquakes and severe rain to mudslides and windstorms. However, a less common natural phenomenon in this area is a tornado. Yet, last month, residents of Pico Rivera witnessed the unexpected when a tornado touched down in their city.
During a powerful storm system that swept across Southern California in early March, the final and strongest storm produced not only heavy rain but also a tornado. At approximately
3:15 a.m. on Thursday, March 13, an EF-0 tornado with wind speeds reaching 85 mph tore through a neighborhood in Pico Rivera, according to the National Weather Service – Los Angeles. While classified as an EF-0, this tornado was on the upper end of the scale, causing notable damage within its one-mile path, spanning 80 yards in width.
The hardest-hit area encompassed a four-block stretch near Loch Avon Drive, Holbrook Street, and Glencannon Drive, between Passons Boulevard and Pico Vista Road. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. However, the tornado left its mark by uprooting trees, downing powerlines, and causing power outages throughout the neighborhood. Several homes and vehicles also sustained damage from the high winds and flying debris.
In response to the unexpected disaster, the City of Pico Rivera swiftly activated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Public Works, Public Safety, and Emergency Services teams were immediately deployed to assess damage, clear hazards, and restore utilities. In collaboration with the National Weather Service (NWS) and the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Services (OES), city crews worked diligently to ensure the community’s safety and recovery.
Though tornadoes are rare in Los Angeles County, they are not unheard of. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), at least 49 tornadoes have been recorded in the county’s history. The most recent occurred in 2023 when a tornado touched down in nearby Montebello.
This unusual event serves as a stark reminder that disasters can strike at any time and in unexpected ways. Residents are encouraged to stay prepared for all types of emergencies.
For resources on disaster preparedness, including building an emergency kit, visit ready.gov.
