HomeMy WebLinkAboutD-1 Staff Report - GPA-2019-01 - LHMP AdoptionPUBLIC HEARING/SCHEDULED ITEM
D-1
TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
VIA: SERGIO GONZALEZ, CITY MANAGER
FROM: MATT MARQUEZ, ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR
DATE: OCTOBER 21, 2019
SUBJECT: REQUEST TO APPROVE GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT (GPA-2019-01)
AND ADOPTION OF THE LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN (LHMP)
BACKGROUND:
The California’s Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) received new funding for the
non-disaster Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) Programs. This includes $30,000,000 nationwide
for the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) grant. These programs provide funding for the development
of a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) as well as for the implementation of hazard mitigation
projects. On December 24, 2015, Cal OES received notification that Federal Emergency
Management Agency’s (FEMA) approved the City’s grant application in the amount of $74,088 with
a local match of $24, 695.57.
The City of Azusa utilized the requested funds and hired Foster Morrison to assist Staff in
developing a LHMP, which is a FEMA-approved plan. Foster Morrison’s strategy for developing the
LHMP included the following:
1) Engage Key Agencies, Stakeholders, and the Public in the Planning Process;
2) Identify Hazards and Assess Risks/Vulnerabilities;
3) Develop a Mitigation Strategy;
4) Develop and Adopt Plan; and
5) Maintain Plan.
On October 9, 2019, the Planning Commission recommended approval to the City Council of
General Plan Amendment (GPA-2019-01) and adoption of the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
(LHMP).
APPROVED
CITY COUNCIL
10/21/2019
City Council - GPA-2019-01 and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
October 21, 2019
Page 2 of 4
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends the City Council take the following actions:
1) Open the Public Hearing, receive public testimony, close the Public Hearing; and
2) Adopt Resolution No. 2019-C36, General Plan Amendment No. GPA-2019-01 and the Local
Hazard Mitigation Plan
ANALYSIS:
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
The City of Azusa prepared the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) to help guide hazard
mitigation planning and better protect the people and property of the City from the effects of
hazardous events. This LHMP demonstrates the Community’s commitment to reducing risks from
hazards and serves as a tool to help decision makers direct mitigation activities and resources. This
LHMP was also developed so the City can be eligible for certain federal disaster assistance,
specifically, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant
Program (HMGP), Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program, and the Flood Mitigation Assistance
(FMA) program.
Hazard mitigation is defined by FEMA as “any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-
term risk to human life and property from a hazardous event.” The results of a three-year
congressionally mandated independent study to assess future savings from mitigation activities
provides evidence that mitigation plans are highly cost-effective. On average, each dollar spent on
mitigation saves society an average of $6 in avoided future losses in addition to saving lives and
preventing injuries (National Institute of Building Science Natural Hazard Mitigation Saves 2017
Interim Report).
Hazard mitigation planning is the process through which hazards that threaten communities are
identified, likely impacts determined, mitigation goals set, and appropriate mitigation strategies
determined, prioritized, and implemented. This LHMP documents the City’s hazard mitigation
planning process and identifies relevant hazards, vulnerabilities, and mitigation strategies the City
will use to decrease vulnerability and increase resiliency and sustainability in the community.
The Azusa LHMP is a single jurisdictional plan that geographically covers the entire area within the
City’s jurisdictional boundaries. This plan was prepared pursuant to the requirements of the Disaster
Mitigation Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-390) and the implementing regulations set forth by the
Interim Final Rule published in the Federal Register on February 26, 2002, (44 CFR §201.6) and
finalized on October 31, 2007. (Hereafter, these requirements and regulations will be referred to
collectively as the Disaster Mitigation Act (DMA) or DMA 2000.) This planning effort also follows
FEMA’s most current Plan Preparation and Review Guidance. The DMA 2000 emphasized the need
for mitigation plans and more coordinated mitigation planning and implementation efforts. Pursuant
to the DMA, the City established the City of Azusa 1-2 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan of October
2018. This LHMP by the City satisfies the requirements that local hazard mitigation plans must
meet in order for a local jurisdiction to be eligible for certain federal disaster assistance and hazard
City Council - GPA-2019-01 and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
October 21, 2019
Page 3 of 4
mitigation funding under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Act (Public Law 93-
288). Because the City is subject to many kinds of hazards, access to these programs and funding is
vital.
General Plan Amendment
The General Plan Amendment is adding language that references the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.
The Amendment will add the following language under the Plan’s Chapter 5: Natural Environment:
In 2006, the State adopted Assembly Bill (AB) 2140, which added provisions specifying what
is to be included in a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) and requiring a linkage between a
local jurisdiction’s LHMP and the Safety Element of their General Plan. AB 2140 requires a
jurisdiction to adopt the LHMP into the Safety Element of the General Plan in order to be fully
eligible for disaster relief funding under the California Disaster Assistance Act. AB 2140 can be
met by either including the LHMP language specific to AB 2140 as part of the Safety Element or to
incorporate the LHMP by reference into the Safety Element of the General Plan.
The City of Azusa has a current LHMP that includes an assessment of the City of Azusa’s risk
and vulnerability related to natural and other identified hazards and a comprehensive mitigation
strategy that includes actions and projects designed to mitigate or reduce the impacts of those
hazards and to increase community resiliency.
This LHMP has been formally adopted and incorporated by reference into the Safety Element of the
General Plan via a City Council resolution. To further meet the requirements of AB 2140, the
City of Azusa adopts and incorporates by reference the most current LHMP as part of this General
Plan Safety Element, which should be consulted when addressing known hazards to ensure the
general health and safety of people within the City of Azusa. The most recent LHMP can be
found at the following link: https://www.ci.azusa.ca.us/1499/2018-Hazard-Mitigation-Plan
The City of Azusa’s Safety Element is incorporated into Chapter 5: Natural Environment of the
General Plan, which was adopted in 2004. This General Plan Amendment is a requirement of
FEMA and Cal OES.
Environmental Review
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines provide objectives, criteria and
procedures for the orderly evaluation of projects. This action is not considered a project under
the environmental review per Section 15-378 CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act)
Guidelines.
Findings
The Finding of Facts for General Plan Amendment (GPA-2019-01), which is adding language to
Chapter 5: Natural Environment can be found in the attached resolution.
City Council - GPA-2019-01 and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
October 21, 2019
Page 4 of 4
FISCAL IMPACT:
This action will have no impact on the Fiscal Year 2019-20 budget.
Prepared by: Reviewed by:
Manuel Muñoz Matt Marquez
Planning Manager Director of Economic and Community Development
Fiscal Reviewed by: Reviewed and Approved by:
Talika M. Johnson Sergio Gonzalez
Director of Administrative Services City Manager
Attachments:
1) Resolution No. 2019-C36 for GPA-2019-01 and LHMP Adoption
2) Draft General Plan Amendment Exhibit
3) Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-C36
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT GPA-2019-01 AND THE LOCAL
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Azusa, after having given notice thereof as
required by law, held a public hearing on the city initiated General Plan Amendment and Local
Hazard Mitigation Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has carefully considered all pertinent testimony
and the staff report presented during the public hearing for the requested general plan
amendment.
NOW THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA DOES
HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1: The above Recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein by this
reference.
SECTION 2: Pursuant to City Council Resolution No. 2019-C36, the City Council
approves General Plan Amendment (GPA-2019-01) and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. This
action is not considered a project under the environmental review per Section 15-378 of CEQA
(California Environmental Quality Act) Guidelines.
SECTION 3: That in accordance with Section 88.51.080.D of the Azusa Development
Code, it is found that the action would not unreasonably interfere with the use or enjoyment of
property in the vicinity, and would not adversely affect the public peace, health, safety or general
welfare. The City Council hereby recommends approval and adoption of said General Plan
Amendment (GPA-2019-01) based on the following findings:
1.The proposed amendment is in the public interest, and there will be a community benefit
resulting from the amendment:
The proposed General Plan Amendment is in the public interest and will benefit the
community in being better prepared for the effects of hazard events. Also, by having a local
hazard mitigation plan referenced in the General Plan, the City will be more resilient and able
to recover at a faster rate since it will allow for additional funds to be secured.
2. The proposed amendment is consistent with the other goals, policies, and objectives of the
General Plan.
The proposed amendment would be consistent with other goals, policies, and objectives of
the General Plan. The proposal will also enhance all other goals, policies, and objectives of
the General Plan by having a plan that will mitigate and make the city more resilient during
and after hazard events. Having the ability of being prepared for a hazard event will mitigate
Attachment 1
Resolution No. 2019-C36 for GPA-2019-01and Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Adoption
General Plan Amendment of Language for the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Page 2 of 2
the damage caused and allow for a faster recovery period. This will better allow all of the
goals, policies, and objectives to continue in site of potential delays commonly associated
with hazard events.
3. The proposed amendment will not conflict with provisions of the Development Code,
subdivision regulations, or any applicable specific plan; and
The proposed General Plan Amendment does not include any physical projects that would
conflict with provisions of the Development Code, subdivision regulations, or any applicable
specific plan.
4. In the event that the proposed amendment is a change to the land use policy map, that the
amendment will not adversely affect surrounding properties.
The proposed General Plan Amendment does not include a change to the Land Use policy
map.
SECTION 4: The City Council shall certify its approval to adopt the Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan (LHMP).
SECTION 5: The Secretary of the City Council shall certify to the adoption of this
Resolution.
SECTION 6: Location and Custodian of Records. The documents and materials
associated with this Resolution that constitute the record of proceedings on which these findings
are based are located at Azusa City Hall, 213 E. Foothill Blvd., Azusa, California 91702. The
City Clerk is the custodian of the record of proceedings.
ADOPTED AND APPROVED the 21st day of October, 2019.
_____________________________________________
AZUSA CITY CLERK
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of a resolution adopted by the City Council of
the City of Azusa at a regular meeting thereof held on the 21st day of October, 2019, by the
following vote of the City Council:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
__________________________________________
AZUSA CITY CLERK
Azusa’s Future—Be a Part of it!
Chapter 5: Natural Environment
Introduction
The third and final “Elements of Place”, the Natu-
ral Environment, focuses on the natural environ-
ment – air, water, flora and fauna, minerals, geol-
ogy, and noise. Specifically, the subject areas for
the Natural Environment include:
Recreation – Parks and Recreation;
Open Space and Biological Resources;
Geologic Hazards;
Mineral Resources;
Air Quality; and
Noise.
Protecting Our Natural Heritage
Long known as “The Canyon City,” Azusa is be-
coming known as a regional model for living in
balance with nature. Blessed with a wealth of re-
sources, Azusa is the gateway to the Angeles Na-
tional Forest for millions of people every year. By
restoring the beauty and improving access, Azusa
can encourage the respect and appreciation for
nature as well as the development of active recre-
ation appealing to visitors and residents alike.
Vision
We will respect and restore the life-giving river and
natural environment around us. Parks in the city and
the nearby canyons will be easily acces-sible to all
residents, providing recreational and educational
activities throughout the year. As a major gateway to
the San Gabriel Mountains, we will encourage
visitors to enjoy, protect, and pre-serve the natural
beauty of the river, foothills, and vistas that help
define “the Canyon City”.
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
In 2006, the State adopted Assembly Bill (AB) 2140,
which added provisions specifying what is to be
included in a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP)
and requiring a linkage between a local jurisdiction’s
LHMP and the Safety Element of their General Plan.
AB 2140 requires a jurisdiction to adopt the LHMP
into the Safety Element of the General Plan in order to
be fully eligible for disaster relief funding under the
California Disaster Assistance Act. AB 2140 can be
met by either including the LHMP language specific
to AB 2140 as part of the Safety Element or to
incorporate the LHMP by reference into the Safety
Element of the General Plan.
The City of Azusa has a current LHMP that includes
an assessment of the City of Azusa’s risk and
vulnerability related to natural and other identified
hazards and a comprehensive mitigation strategy that
includes actions and projects designed to mitigate or
reduce the impacts of those hazards and to increase
community resiliency.
This LHMP has been formally adopted and
incorporated by reference into the Safety Element of
the General Plan via a City Council resolution. To
further meet the requirements of AB 2140, the City of
Azusa adopts and incorporates by reference the most
current LHMP as part of this General Plan Safety
Element, which should be consulted when
addressing known hazards to ensure the general
health and safety of people within the City of Azusa.
The most recent LHMP can be found at the
following link: LINK TO MOST RECENTLY
APPROVED LHMP ON THE JURISDICTION’S
WEBSITE.
Attachment 2
City of Azusa
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Attachment 3
City of Azusa i
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Executive Summary
The City of Azusa prepared this Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) to guide hazard mitigation planning
to better protect the people and property of the City from the effects of natural disasters and hazard events.
This plan demonstrates the community’s commitment to reducing risks from hazards and serves as a tool
to help decision makers direct mitigation activities and resources. This plan was also developed in order
for the City to be eligible for certain federal disaster assistance, specifically, the Federal Emergency
Management Agency’s (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), Pre -Disaster Mitigation
(PDM) Program, and the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program.
Each year in the United States, natural disasters take the lives of hundreds of people and injure thousands
more. Nationwide, taxpayers pay billions of dollars annually to help communities, organizations,
businesses, and individuals recover from disasters. These monies only partially reflect the true cost of
disasters, because additional expenses to insurance companies and nongovernmental organizations are not
reimbursed by tax dollars. Many natural disasters are predictable, and much of the damage caused by these
events can be alleviated or even eliminated. The purpose of hazard mitigation is to reduce or eliminate long-
term risk to people and property from hazards
LHMP Plan Development Process
Hazard mitigation planning is the process through which hazards that threaten communities are identified,
likely impacts determined, mitigation goals set, and appropriate mitigation strategies determined,
prioritized, and implemented. This plan documents the hazard mitigation planning process and identifies
relevant hazards and vulnerabilities and strategies the City will use to decrease vulnerability and increase
resiliency and sustainability in the community.
This LHMP was prepared pursuant to the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (Public Law
106-390) and the implementing regulations set forth by the Interim Final Rule published in the Federal
Register on February 26, 2002, (44 CFR §201.6) and finalized on October 31, 2007. The City followed a
planning process prescribed by FEMA as detailed in Table ES-1.
Table ES-1 Local Hazard Mitigation Planning Process
DMA Process Modified CRS Process
1) Organize Resources
201.6(c)(1) 1) Organize the Planning Effort
201.6(b)(1) 2) Involve the Public
201.6(b)(2) and (3) 3) Coordinate with Other Departments and Agencies
2) Assess Risks
201.6(c)(2)(i) 4) Identify the Hazards
201.6(c)(2)(ii) 5) Assess the Risks
City of Azusa ii
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
DMA Process Modified CRS Process
3) Develop the Mitigation Plan
201.6(c)(3)(i) 6) Set Goals
201.6(c)(3)(ii) 7) Review Possible Activities
201.6(c)(3)(iii) 8) Draft an Action Plan
4) Implement the Plan and Monitor Progress
201.6(c)(5) 9) Adopt the Plan
201.6(c)(4) 10) Implement, Evaluate, and Revise the Plan
The planning process began with the organizational phase to establish the hazard mitigation planning
committee (HMPC) comprised of key City representatives, and other local and regional stakeholders; to
involve the public; and to coordinate with other departments and agencies. A detailed risk assessment was
then conducted followed by the development of a focused mitigation strategy for Azusa. Once approved
by Cal OES and FEMA, this plan will be adopted and implemented by the City over the next five years.
Risk Assessment
The HMPC conducted a risk assessment that identified and profiled hazards that pose a risk to the City,
assessed the vulnerability of the planning area to these hazards, and examined the existing capabilities to
mitigate them.
The City is vulnerable to numerous hazards that are identified, profiled, and analyzed in this plan. Dam
failures, floods, earthquakes, drought, liquefaction, landslides, wildfires, and other severe weather events
are among the hazards that can have a significant impact on the City. Table ES-2 details the hazards
identified for the City LHMP.
City of Azusa iii
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Table ES-2 Azusa Hazard Identification Assessment
Hazard
Geographic
Extent
Likelihood of
Future Occurrences
Magnitude/
Severity Significance
Climate Change
Impacts
Climate Change Extensive Likely Negligible Low ---
Dam Failure Extensive Unlikely Catastrophic High Low
Drought and Water
Shortage Extensive Likely Limited Medium
Medium
Earthquake Extensive Likely Catastrophic High Low
Earthquake Liquefaction Extensive Occasional Catastrophic High Low
Flood: 1%/0.2% chance Significant Occasional/ Unlikely Critical Medium Medium
Flood:
Localized/Stormwater Limited Highly Likely Negligible Medium
Medium
Landslide and Mudslides Limited Likely Limited Low Low
Levee Failure Limited Unlikely Negligible Medium Low
Severe Weather:
Extreme Heat Extensive Highly Likely Negligible Low
Medium
Severe Weather: Heavy
Rains and Storms Extensive Highly Likely Negligible Medium
Medium
Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes Extensive Highly Likely Limited Low Low
Wildfire Significant Likely Critical High Medium
Geographic Extent
Limited: Less than 10% of City
Significant: 10-50% of City
Extensive: 50-100% of City
Probability of Future Occurrences
Highly Likely: Near 100% chance of
occurrence in next year, or happens every
year.
Likely: Between 10 and 100% chance of
occurrence in next year, or has a
recurrence interval of 10 years or less.
Occasional: Between 1 and 10% chance
of occurrence in the next year, or has a
recurrence interval of 11 to 100 years.
Unlikely: Less than 1% chance of
occurrence in next 100 years, or has a
recurrence interval of greater than every
100 years.
Magnitude/Severity
Catastrophic—More than 50 percent of property severely damaged;
shutdown of facilities for more than 30 days; and/or multiple deaths
Critical—25-50 percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities
for at least two weeks; and/or injuries and/or illnesses result in permanent
disability
Limited—10-25 percent of property severely damaged, shutdown of
facilities for more than a week; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable do not
result in permanent disability
Negligible—Less than 10 percent of property severely damaged, shutdown
of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or injurie s/illnesses
treatable with first aid
Significance
Low: minimal potential impact
Medium: moderate potential impact
High: widespread potential impact
Climate Change Impact:
Low: Climate change is not likely to increase the probability of this hazard.
Medium: Climate change is likely to increase the probability of this hazard.
High: Climate change is very likely to increase the probability of this hazard.
Strategy
Based on the results of the risk assessment, the HMPC developed a mitigation strategy for reducing the
City’s risk and vulnerability to hazards. The resulting Mitigation Strategy for Azusa is comprised of LHMP
City of Azusa iv
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
goals and objectives and a mitigation action plan which includes a series of mitigation action projects and
implementation measures.
The goals and objectives of this LHMP are:
➢ Goal 1: Minimize risk and vulnerability of Azusa to natural hazards and protect lives and prevent
losses to property, public heath, economy, and the environment.
✓ Objective 1.1: Reduce the risk and vulnerability to the community from all identified hazards of
concern, with an emphasis on priority hazards, such as wildfire, flood, and earthquake.
✓ Objective 1.1: Provide protection for existing and future development.
✓ Objective 1.2: Provide protection for critical facilities, utilities, and services.
✓ Objective 1.3: Provide protection for natural resources and the environment.
➢ Goal 2: Increase community education, awareness, and preparedness to hazards of concern and
promote participation and action to reduce hazard-related losses.
✓ Objective 2.1: Improve resiliency from hazard events by increasing awareness and emphasizing
preparedness for city workers and residents.
✓ Objective 2.2: Inform and educate residents and businesses about all hazards they are exposed to,
where they occur, what they can do to mitigate exposure or damages.
✓ Objective 2.3: Make developers, builders, and the public aware that these mitigation measure are
cost effective and in their long-term best interest
✓ Objective 2.4: Increase use of technologies to better inform the public, before, during, and after an
emergency.
➢ Goal 3: Improve community’s capabilities to prevent/mitigate hazard-related losses and to be
prepared for, respond to, and recover from a disaster event.
✓ Objective 3.1: Continued improvements to emergency management capabilities to protect the
safety of all constituents, reduce losses, and speed community recovery.
✓ Objective 3.2: Make better use of technologies to enhance community preparedness and
readiness.
✓ Objective 3.3: Update, strengthen, and integrate community disaster preparedness, emergency
response, and recovery plans.
✓ Objective 3.4: Establish and coordinate departmental/agency policies and responsibilities for
hazard events through disaster planning and exercising
✓ Objective 3.5: Maintain community access to essential services and maintain current service
levels during a hazard event.
✓ Objective 3.6: Ensure availability of mutual aid resources and cooperation between all agencies.
✓ Objective 3.6: Promote hazard policies and standards in the Safety Element of the General Plan.
Actions to support these goals are shown on Table ES-3.
City of Azusa v
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Table ES-3 City of Azusa’s Mitigation Actions
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
Multi-Hazard Mitigation Actions
1. Integrate Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan into Safety Element of General
Plan
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Prevention
2. Public Awareness, Education,
Outreach, and Preparedness Program
Enhancements.
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X X Public Information
3. Establish CERT Program 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Emergency Service
City of Azusa vi
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
4. Develop Emergency Operations Plan
(EOP) Update and all Annexes
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Emergency Services
5. Evacuation Planning 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Emergency Services
6. City Ordinance and Regulatory
Updates for All Hazards
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
City of Azusa vii
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
7. Coordinate Mitigation Efforts 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
Emergency Services
Public Information
8. GIS Mapping and Data Updates 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Earthquake,
Earthquake Liquefaction, Flood:
1%/0.2% chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide
and Mudslides, Levee Failure,
Tornadoes, and Wildfire
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Emergency Services
9. Above Ground Storage Tanks 1, 2, 3 Drought and Water Shortage,
Earthquake, and Wildfire
X X Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Emergency Services
10. Access Road Improvements 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Property Protection
Emergency Services
City of Azusa viii
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January 2019
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
Climate Change Actions
11. Climate Change Planning 1, 2, 3 Climate Change (and all hazards
affected by it)
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
Drought Actions
12. Drought Program 1, 2, 3 Drought and Water Shortage X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
Earthquake and Liquefaction Actions
13. Earthquake Program 1, 2, 3 Earthquake, Liquefaction, and
Dam Failure
X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Flood, Localized Flood, Levee Failure, and Dam Failure Actions
14. Flood/Stormwater Program 1, 2, 3 Localized Flood, Flood (1% and
.2% Annual Chance), Levee
Failure, Dam Failure
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Landslide Actions
15. Landslide Program 1, 2, 3 Landslide X X Prevention
Property Protection
Emergency Services
City of Azusa ix
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Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
Severe Weather Actions
16. Severe Weather Program 1, 2, 3 Drought, Heavy Rains and Storms,
High Winds and Tornadoes
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Emergency Services
Public Information
Wildfire Actions
17. Wildfire Program – Fuels
Management
1, 2, 3 Wildfire X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
18. Wildfire Program – Water
Management
1, 2, 3 Wildfire, Drought and Water
Shortage
X X Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
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Table of Contents
Chapters
1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................ 1-1
1.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Background and Scope ........................................................................................................... 1-1
1.3 Plan Organization ................................................................................................................... 1-2
2 Community Profile........................................................................................................................ 1-3
2.1 City of Azusa .......................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 History .................................................................................................................................... 2-3
2.3 Geography and Climate .......................................................................................................... 2-3
2.4 Economy and Tax Base .......................................................................................................... 2-3
2.5 Population and Socioeconomic Profile .................................................................................. 2-5
3 PLANNING PROCESS ................................................................................................................ 3-1
3.1 Local Government Participation............................................................................................. 3-1
3.2 The 10-Step Planning Process ................................................................................................ 3-2
3.2.1 Phase 1: Organize Resources .......................................................................................... 3-3
3.2.2 Phase 2: Assess Risks ..................................................................................................... 3-9
3.2.3 Phase 3: Develop the Mitigation Plan ........................................................................... 3-10
3.2.4 Phase 4: Implement the Plan and Monitor Progress ..................................................... 3-10
4 RISK ASSESSMENT ................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.1 Hazard Identification: Natural Hazards .................................................................................. 4-2
4.1.1. Methodology and Results ................................................................................................ 4-2
4.1.2. Disaster Declaration History ............................................................................................ 4-4
4.2 Hazard Profiles ..................................................................................................................... 4-10
4.2.1. Severe Weather: General ............................................................................................... 4-12
4.2.2. Severe Weather: Extreme Heat Hazard Profile.............................................................. 4-14
4.2.3. Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms Hazard Profile ............................................ 4-21
4.2.4. Severe Weather: High Winds and Tornadoes ................................................................ 4-33
4.2.5. Climate Change Hazard Profile ..................................................................................... 4-38
4.2.6. Dam Failure Hazard Profile ........................................................................................... 4-43
4.2.7. Drought and Water Shortage Hazard Profile ................................................................. 4-50
4.2.8. Earthquake Hazard Profile ............................................................................................. 4-60
4.2.9. Earthquake: Liquefaction Hazard Profile ...................................................................... 4-75
4.2.10. Flood: 1%/0.2% Annual Chance Hazard Profile ........................................................... 4-76
4.2.11. Localized Flooding Hazard Profile ................................................................................ 4-89
4.2.12. Landslides and Mudslides Hazard Profile ..................................................................... 4-91
4.2.13. Levee Failure Hazard Profile ......................................................................................... 4-95
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4.2.14. Wildfire Hazard Profile................................................................................................ 4-100
4.2.15. Natural Hazards Summary ........................................................................................... 4-109
4.3 Vulnerability Assessment ................................................................................................... 4-110
4.3.1. Azusa’s Vulnerability and Assets at Risk .................................................................... 4-111
4.3.2. Azusa’s Vulnerability to Specific Hazards .................................................................. 4-134
4.3.3. Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment ................................................................. 4-135
4.3.4. Dam Failure Vulnerability Assessment ....................................................................... 4-138
4.3.5. Drought and Water Shortage Vulnerability Assessment ............................................. 4-156
4.3.6. Earthquake Vulnerability Assessment ......................................................................... 4-158
4.3.7. Earthquake: Liquefaction Vulnerability Assessment ................................................... 4-160
4.3.8. Flood: 1%/0.2% Annual Chance Vulnerability Assessment ....................................... 4-168
4.3.9. Flood: Localized Stormwater Flooding Vulnerability Assessment ............................. 4-184
4.3.10. Levee Failure Vulnerability Assessment ..................................................................... 4-185
4.3.11. Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms Vulnerability Assessment ........................ 4-187
4.3.12. Wildfire Vulnerability Assessment .............................................................................. 4-187
4.4 Capability Assessment ....................................................................................................... 4-200
4.4.1. City of Azusa’s Regulatory Mitigation Capabilities .................................................... 4-200
4.4.2. City of Azusa’s Administrative/Technical Mitigation Capabilities ............................. 4-209
4.4.3. City of Azusa’s Fiscal Mitigation Capabilities ............................................................ 4-210
4.4.4. Mitigation Education, Outreach, and Partnerships ...................................................... 4-211
4.4.5. Other Mitigation Efforts .............................................................................................. 4-211
5 MITIGATION STRATEGY ......................................................................................................... 5-1
5.1 Mitigation Strategy: Overview ............................................................................................... 5-1
5.1.1 Continued Compliance with NFIP ................................................................................... 5-1
5.1.2 Integration of Mitigation with Post Disaster Recovery and Mitigation Strategy Funding
Opportunities ................................................................................................................................ 5-2
5.2 Goals and Objectives .............................................................................................................. 5-4
5.3 Identification and Analysis of Mitigation Actions ................................................................. 5-6
5.31 Prioritization Process ....................................................................................................... 5-7
5.4 Mitigation Action Plan ........................................................................................................... 5-9
6 PLAN ADOPTION ....................................................................................................................... 6-1
7 PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND MAINTENANCE ............................................................... 7-1
7.1 Implementation ....................................................................................................................... 7-1
7.1.1 Role of Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee in Implementation and
Maintenance .................................................................................................................................. 7-2
7.2 Maintenance ........................................................................................................................... 7-2
7.2.1 Maintenance Schedule ..................................................................................................... 7-3
7.2.2 Maintenance Evaluation Process ..................................................................................... 7-3
7.2.3 Incorporation into Existing Planning Mechanisms .......................................................... 7-5
7.2.4 Continued Public Involvement ........................................................................................ 7-6
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Appendices
Appendix A: Planning Process
Appendix B: References
Appendix C: Mitigation Strategy
Appendix D: Adoption Resolution
Appendix E: Critical Facilities
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Abbreviations and Acronyms
Acronym Definition
AB Assembly Bill
AGL Above Ground Level
AHJ Authorities Having Jurisdiction
AHPS Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service
ALERT Automated Local Evaluation in Real Time
ALW Azusa Light and Water
APG California Adaptation Planning Guide
APU Azusa Pacific University
BAM Best Available Map
BLM Bureau of Land Management
BMP Best Management Practices
CA California
CA-DWR California Department of Water Resources
Cal OES California Office of Emergency Services
CAP Climate Adaptation Plan
CAS Climate Adaptation Strategy
CBC California Business Code
CDAA California Disaster Assistance Act
CDEC California Data Exchange Center
CDFA California Department of Food & Agriculture
CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife
CEC California Energy Commission
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CERT Community Emergency Response Training
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CGS California Geologic Survey
CHP California Highway Patrol
CIP Capital Improvements Plan
CLOMR Conditional Letter of Map Revision
CNPS California Native Plant Society
CNRA California Natural Resource Agency
CRS (National Flood Insurance Program’s) Community Rating System
CRV Content Replacement Values
CWPP Community Wildfire Protection Plan
DMA Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
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Acronym Definition
DOF Department of Finance
DOT Department of Transportation
DSOD Division of Safety of Dams
EAS Emergency Alert System
EF Enhanced Fujita
EOC Emergency Operations Center
EOP Emergency Operations Plan
EWP Emergency Watershed Protection Program
F Fujita
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FHSZ Fire Hazard Severity Zone
FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map
FIS Flood Insurance Study
FMA Flood Mitigation Assistance Program
FRA Federal Responsibility Area
FWS US Fish and Wildlife Service
GHG Greenhouse Gases
GIS Geographic Information Systems
HMGP Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
HI Heat Index
IBC International Business Code
IPCC Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
IRC International Residential Code
LCPW Los Angeles County Public Works
LFPZ Levee Flood Protection Zone
LHMP Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
LOMA Letter of Map Amendment
LOMR Letter of Map Revision
LRA Local Responsibility Area
MGD Million Gallons per Day
MHDP Multi Hazards Demonstration Project
MMHW Mean Higher High Water
MMI Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale
MSL Mean Sea Level
NASA National Aerospace and Science Agency
NAVD 88 North America Vertical Datum 1988
NCDC National Climactic Data Center
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Acronym Definition
NDMC National Drought Mitigation Center
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act
NFIP National Flood Insurance Program
NGVD 29 National Geodetic Vertical Datum 1929
NIDIS National Integrated Drought Information System
NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
NPDP National Performance of Dams Program
NPS National Park Service
NWS National Weather Service
OHP Office of Historic Preservation
PDM Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program
PMR Physical Map Revision
PPI Program for Public Information
PRP Preferred Risk Policy
RAWS Remote Automated Weather Stations
RL Repetitive Loss
SB Senate Bill
SBA Small Business Administration
SEMS Standardized Emergency Management System
SFHA Special Flood Hazard Area
SGMA Sustainable Groundwater Management Act
SGR7 San Gabriel River 7
SHBC State Historical Building Code
SOI Sphere of Influence
SOP Standardized Operations Procedures
SRA State Responsibility Area
SRL Severe Repetitive Loss
SWP State Water Project
TC Tropical cyclone
TOD Transit Oriented Development
UCERF Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast
UHI Urban Heat Island
ULDC Urban Levee Design Criteria
ULOP Urban Level of Protection Criteria
USACE US Army Corp of Engineers
USGS United States Geologic Survey
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Acronym Definition
USDA United States Department of Agriculture
UWMP Urban Water Management Plan
VHFHSZ Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone
WMP Wildlife Hazard Management Plan
WRCC Western Regional Climate Center
WUI Wildland Urban Interface
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Chapter 1 Introduction
1.1 Purpose
The City of Azusa prepared this Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) to guide hazard mitigation planning
to better protect the people and property of the City from the effects of hazard events. This LHMP
demonstrates the community’s commitment to reducing risks from hazards and serves as a tool to help
decision makers direct mitigation activities and resources. This LHMP was also developed so the City can
be eligible for certain federal disaster assistance, specifically, the Federal Emergency Management
Agency’s (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program,
and the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program.
1.2 Background and Scope
Each year in the United States, natural disasters take the lives of hundreds of people and injure thousands
more. Nationwide, taxpayers pay billions of dollars annually to help communities, organizations,
businesses, and individuals recover from disasters. These monies only partially reflect the true cost of
disasters, because additional expenses to insurance companies and nongovernmental organizations are not
reimbursed by tax dollars. Many natural disasters are predictable, and much of the damage caused by these
events can be alleviated or even eliminated.
Hazard mitigation is defined by FEMA as “any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk
to human life and property from a hazard event.” The results of a three -year, congressionally mandated
independent study to assess future savings from mitigation activities provides evidence that mit igation
activities are highly cost-effective. On average, each dollar spent on mitigation saves society an average
of $6 in avoided future losses in addition to saving lives and preventing injuries (National Institute of
Building Science Natural Hazard Mitigation Saves 2017 Interim Report).
Hazard mitigation planning is the process through which hazards that threaten communities are identified,
likely impacts determined, mitigation goals set, and appropriate mitigation strategies determined,
prioritized, and implemented. This LHMP documents the City’s hazard mitigation planning process and
identifies relevant hazards, vulnerabilities, and mitigation strategies the City will use to decrease
vulnerability and increase resiliency and sustainability in the community.
The Azusa LHMP is a single jurisdictional plan that geographically covers the entire area within the City’s
jurisdictional boundaries. This plan was prepared pursuant to the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation
Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-390) and the implementing regulations set forth by the Interim Final Rule
published in the Federal Register on February 26, 2002, (44 CFR §201.6) and finalized on October 31,
2007. (Hereafter, these requirements and regulations will be referred to collectivel y as the Disaster
Mitigation Act (DMA) or DMA 2000.) This planning effort also follows FEMA’s most current Plan
Preparation and Review Guidance. While the DMA 2000 emphasized the need for mitigation plans and
more coordinated mitigation planning and implementation efforts, the regulations established the
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requirements that local hazard mitigation plans must meet in order for a local jurisdiction to be eligible for
certain federal disaster assistance and hazard mitigation funding under the Robert T. Staffor d Disaster
Relief and Emergency Act (Public Law 93-288). Because the City is subject to many kinds of hazards,
access to these programs is vital.
Information in this LHMP will be used to help guide and coordinate mitigation activities and decisions for
local land use policy in the future. Proactive mitigation planning will help reduce the cost of disaster
response and recovery to communities and their residents by protecting critical community facilities,
reducing liability exposure, and minimizing overall community impacts and disruptions. Azusa has been
affected by hazards in the past and is thus committed to reducing future impacts from hazard events and
becoming eligible for mitigation-related federal funding.
1.3 Plan Organization
The City of Azusa’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan is organized as follows:
➢ Chapter 1: Introduction
➢ Chapter 2: Community Profile
➢ Chapter 3: Planning Process
➢ Chapter 4: Risk Assessment
➢ Chapter 5: Mitigation Strategy
➢ Chapter 6: Plan Adoption
➢ Chapter 7: Plan Implementation and Maintenance
➢ Appendices
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Chapter 2 Community Profile
2.1 City of Azusa
The City of Azusa was founded in 1887 and incorporated as a general law city on December 29, 1898. The
City is located in the County of Los Angeles, situated 27 miles northeast of the City of Los Angeles, and
nestled against the San Gabriel Mountain foothills. The City of Azusa encompasses 9.13 square miles. The
City is located at the entrance to the San Gabriel Canyon, on the east side of the San Gabriel River.
The dominant regional transportation corridor is the Interstate 210 (Foothill Freeway) providing access to
State Route 605 (San Gabriel River Freeway) and Interstate Route 5. The Santa Fe railroad corridor, which
played such a key historic role in the development of Azusa’s downtown and industry, will again be a vital
regional link as the Gold Line light rail system has been extended east from Pasadena to Azusa. State Route
39, which originally ran from Huntington Beach to the crest of the San Gabriel Mountains, carved out the
dominant north-south route through the City, Azusa Avenue. The old Route 66 along Alosta and Foothill
Boulevards is no longer a major regional connector, but remains a key feature of the foothill communities
along the San Gabriel Mountains between the cities of Pasadena and Glendora.
The City can be seen in Figure 2-1 below.
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Figure 2-1 City of Azusa
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2.2 History
The first recorded reference to Azusa was found in the diary of Father Juan Crespi, diarist and engi neer
with Portola Expedition in 1769, then on its way northward from San Diego in search of Monterey Bay.
Having come northward through Brea Canyon, Crespi, while camping in the vicinity of Bassett, remarked
of the river and the valley to the north. He referred to this area as The Azusa in his diary. Here roamed the
Shoshonean-Indian, locally known as the Gabrieleno when the area of Azusa was first inhabited by white
immigrants and homesteaders. Their community was known as Asuksa -nga. It is said Azusa was derived
from the native American name.
During 1854, gold was discovered in the San Gabriel Canyon and a town named El Doradoville was built
at the fork of the San Gabriel to take care of some 2,000 miners who had filed on gold claims along the east
fork of the canyon. During the next 20 years, it is estimated that $12 million in gold was mined and shipped
to various mints throughout the United States. The town of El Doradoville was destroyed by flood waters
in 1861 and 1862.
On December 29, 1898, the City was incorporated as a city of the sixth class. Beginning with a population
of 865 in 1899, Azusa grew from 29,380 residents in 1980 to 41,330 residents in 1990, an increase of 41
percent. Since 1990, however, population growth has been relatively moderate, reflecting both the
economic recession of the early to mid-1990s, and the limited availability of land remaining for residential
development in a mostly built-out community. The US Census Bureau estimated 2010 population for the
City as 46,361, while the California Department of Finance estimated the population of the City to be
49,485 on January 1, 2016.
2.3 Geography and Climate
The City of Azusa is bounded by the San Gabriel Mountains to the north, the Cities of Irwindale and Duarte
to the west, the City of Covina to the south, and the city of Glendora to the east. The topography of the
City is generally flat, with the exception of the northernmost portion of the City.
Azusa has a warm-summer Mediterranean climate. This region experiences warm (but not hot) and dry
summers. Temperatures exceed 90F on 77 days each year, on average. The record high temperature for
the City occurred on June 17, 1917 and was recorded at 115F. Cold weather is rare, and the City sees
temperatures below 32F 10.5 days out of the year on average. Most of the rain occurs from November to
March each year. Average annual rainfall for the City is 18.96 inches. Record daily rainfall for the City
was 8.95 inches on January 26, 1956. 90 percent of the annual precipitation occurs between November and
April.
2.4 Economy and Tax Base
The economy of the San Gabriel Valley, the region that includes Azusa, has demonstrated sustained
dynamism over the last decade, weathering the recession of the early 1990s better than Los Angeles County
as a whole and creating jobs at a rapid rate since the end of the recession. This is due primarily to the
Valley’s lower dependence on the aerospace industries that suffered severe job losses during the 1990s.
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The Region’s already diversified economy is showing great promise in the area of high technology, with
the Valley’s considerable academic and research infrastructure beginning to generate significant
commercial spin-offs. Some traditional industries, such as food processing and light manufacturing, are
also growing rapidly and adding significant numbers of jobs. Even some industries that lost many jobs in
the 1990s appear to have stabilized, and are restructuring to compete by producing high-quality, specialized,
high-value goods. The Valley also enjoys growing service and retail sectors and a healthy real estate market.
The US Census Bureau tracks economic statistics for the City of Azusa. These are shown in Table 2-1.
Table 2-1 City of Azusa Civilian Employed Population 16 years and Over
Industry Estimated
Employment
Percent
Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining 169 0.8%
Construction 1,221 5.5%
Manufacturing 2,844 12.8%
Wholesale trade 683 3.1%
Retail trade 2,604 11.7%
Transportation and warehousing, and utilities 1,283 5.8%
Information 634 2.9%
Finance and insurance, and real estate and rental and leasing 940 4.2%
Professional, scientific, and management, and administrative and waste management
services
2,556 11.5%
Educational services, and health care and social assistance 5,025 22.6%
Arts, entertainment, and recreation, and accommodation and food services 2,239 10.1%
Other services, except public administration 1,329 6.0%
Public administration 673 3.0%
Source: US Census Bureau American Community Survey 2015 Estimates
According to Azusa's 2014-2015 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the top employers in the City
are shown in Table 2-2.
Table 2-2 City of Azusa Largest Employers
Employer Number of Employees
Azusa Pacific University 1,433
Azusa Unified School District 1,250
Northrup Grumman 859
City of Azusa 383
Costco 295
S&S Foods 285
Hanson Distributing 195
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Employer Number of Employees
Buena Vista Food Products 186
Target 142
Artisian Screen 140
Source: Azusa’s 2014-2015 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
The City has a wide and varied tax base. Table 2-3 shows the breakdown of the City’s taxable values.
Table 2-3 Azusa – Tax Base by Property Use
Property Use Category Parcels Net Taxable Value Percentage of Total Value
Commercial 398 $342,637,289 8.9%
Government 141 $7,928,268 0.2%
Industrial 410 $545,984,174 14.1%
Institutional 38 $162,127,824 4.2%
Miscellaneous 94 $16,400,864 0.4%
Residential 8,535 $2,788,322,500 72.2%
Open - No Use Code 294 $0 0.0%
Total 9,910 $3,863,400,919 100.00%
Source: Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office
2.5 Population and Socioeconomic Makeup
According to 2017 California Department of Finance estimates, the population of the City is 49,762. This
represents a moderate increase in population from the 2000 US Census, which estimated the City population
at 46,361. Select social and economic information for the City is shown in Table 2-4.
Table 2-4 Azusa– Select Social and Economic Statistics
Statistic Number
Populations
Population under 5 6.2%
Population over 65 8.6%
Median Age 28.7
Racial Makeup
White 41.9%
Black or African American 2.6%
American Indian or Alaska Native 0.5%
Asian 10.4%
Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander 0.0%
Other Races 40.9%
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Statistic Number
Populations
Two or more races 3.8%
Income and Poverty
Median income $53,315
Mean Income $68,275
Poverty rate
All families 14.1%
All people 17.6%
Unemployment Rate (April 2017) 3.1%
Source: 2010 US Census, 2015 US Census American Community Survey, Bureau of Labor Statistics
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Chapter 3 Planning Process
Requirements §201.6(b) and §201.6(c)(1): An open public involvement process is essential to the
development of an effective plan. In order to develop a more comprehensive approach to reducing
the effects of natural disasters, the planning process shall include:
1) An opportunity for the public to comment on the plan during the drafting stage and prior to
plan approval;
2) An opportunity for neighboring communities, local and regional agencies involved in hazard
mitigation activities, and agencies that have the authority to regulate development, as well as
businesses, academia, and other private and nonprofit interests to be involved in the planning
process; and
3) Review and incorporation, if appropriate, of existing plans, studies, reports, and technical
information.
[The plan shall document] the planning process used to develop the plan, including how it was
prepared, who was involved in the process, and how the public was involved.
The City of Azusa recognized the need and importance of a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) and
initiated its development. After receiving a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA), which served as the primary funding source for this plan, the City contracted with Foster Morrison
Consulting, Ltd. (Foster Morrison) to facilitate and develop the plan. Jeanine Foster, a professional planner
with Foster Morrison, was the project manager in charge of overseeing the planning process a nd the
development of this LHMP. Chris Morrison, also a professional planner with Foster Morrison, was the
lead planner for the development of this LHMP. The Foster Morrison’s team’s role was to:
➢ Assist in establishing the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC) as defined by the Disaster
Mitigation Act (DMA);
➢ Meet the DMA requirements as established by federal regulations and following FEMA’s planning
guidance;
➢ Support objectives under the NFIPs CRS and the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program;
➢ Facilitate the entire planning process;
➢ Identify the data requirements that HMPC participants could provide and conduct the research and
documentation necessary to augment that data;
➢ Assist in facilitating the public input process;
➢ Produce the draft and final plan documents; and
➢ Coordinate with the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and FEMA Region IX plan
reviews.
3.1 Local Government Participation
The DMA planning regulations and guidance stress that each local government seeking FEMA approval of
their mitigation plan must participate in the planning effort in the following ways:
➢ Participate in the process as part of the HMPC;
➢ Detail where within the planning area the risk differs from that facing the entire area;
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➢ Identify potential mitigation actions; and
➢ Formally adopt the plan.
For the City of Azusa, “participation” meant the following:
➢ Providing facilities for meetings;
➢ Providing printed materials and refreshments for meeting attendees;
➢ Attending and participating in the HMPC meetings;
➢ Completing and returning the Data Collection Worksheets;
➢ Collecting and providing other requested data (as available);
➢ Coordinating information sharing between internal and external agencies;
➢ Managing administrative details;
➢ Making decisions on plan process and content;
➢ Identifying mitigation actions for the plan;
➢ Reviewing and providing comments on plan drafts;
➢ Informing the public, local officials, and other interested stakeholders about the planning process and
providing opportunity for them to comment on the plan;
➢ Coordinating, and participating in the public input process; and
➢ Coordinating the formal adoption of the plan by the governing board.
Azusa met all of these participation requirements. In most cases one or more representatives for key City
department and other local agency stakeholders attended the HMPC meetings described in Table 3-2 and
worked together to help collect data, identify mitigation actions and implementation strategies, and review
and provide data on plan drafts. Appendix A provides additional information and documentation of the
planning process.
3.2 The 10-Step Planning Process
Foster Morrison established the planning process for the City of Azusa LHMP using the DMA planning
requirements and FEMA’s associated guidance. This guidance is structured around a four-phase process:
1. Organize Resources;
2. Assess Risks;
3. Develop the Mitigation Plan; and
4. Implement the Plan and Monitor Progress.
Into this process, Foster Morrison integrated a more detailed 10-step planning process used for FEMA’s
CRS and FMA programs. Thus, the modified 10-step process used for this plan meets the requirements of
six major programs: FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP); Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM)
program; CRS program; FMA Program; Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL) program; and new flood control
projects authorized by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).
Table 3-1 shows how the modified 10-step process fits into FEMA’s four-phase process. The sections that
follow describe each planning step in more detail.
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Table 3-1 Mitigation Planning Processes Used to Develop the Azusa Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan
DMA Process Modified CRS Process
1) Organize Resources
201.6(c)(1) 1) Organize the Planning Effort
201.6(b)(1) 2) Involve the Public
201.6(b)(2) and (3) 3) Coordinate with Other Departments and Agencies
2) Assess Risks
201.6(c)(2)(i) 4) Identify the Hazards
201.6(c)(2)(ii) 5) Assess the Risks
3) Develop the Mitigation Plan
201.6(c)(3)(i) 6) Set Goals
201.6(c)(3)(ii) 7) Review Possible Activities
201.6(c)(3)(iii) 8) Draft an Action Plan
4) Implement the Plan and Monitor Progress
201.6(c)(5) 9) Adopt the Plan
201.6(c)(4) 10) Implement, Evaluate, and Revise the Plan
3.2.1. Phase 1: Organize Resources
Planning Step 1: Organize the Planning Effort
With Azusa’s commitment to participate in the DMA planning process, Foster Morrison worked with the
City of Azusa’s Planning Department, as overall project lead, to establish the framework and organization
for development of the Plan. An initial call was held with key community representatives to discuss the
organizational and process aspects of the planning process.
The initial kick-off meeting was held on March 29, 2017. Invitations to the kickoff meeting were extended
to key City departments and other federal, state, and local stakeholders that might have an interest in
participating in the planning process. Representatives from the City and key community stakeholders
participated in this LHMP project with additional emailed invitations extended as appropriate throughout
the planning process. The list of initial invitees is included in Appendix A.
The HMPC was established as a result of the initial kickoff meeting, as well as through interest generated
through the initial public meeting and outreach conducted for this project as detailed later in this section.
The HMPC, comprising key city, county, special district, and other government and stakeholder
representatives and the public, developed the plan with leadership from Azusa Planning and facilitation by
Foster Morrison. The following participated on the HMPC:
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City of Azusa
➢ Economic/Community Development
➢ Planning Division
➢ Management Analyst
➢ Library - Director
➢ City Engineer
➢ Public Works/Engineering
➢ Light & Water
➢ GIS Analyst
➢ EOC - Police Officer
➢ Water Engineer
➢ Building Official
➢ Code Enforcement
➢ Police Department
➢ Planning Division
Other Government and Stakeholder Representatives
➢ Azusa Pacific University
➢ National Weather Service
➢ CAL FIRE
➢ Cal OES
➢ LA County
➢ Los Angeles County Fire
➢ US Army Corps of Engineers
A list of participating HMPC representatives is included in Appendix A. This list includes all HMPC
members that attended one or more HMPC meetings detailed in Table 3-2. The above list of HMPC
members also includes several other government and stakeholder representatives that were invited to
participate and contributed to the planning process, by providing technical data, plan reviews, and other
requested input.
Meetings
The planning process officially began with a kick-off meeting held in in the City on March 29, 2017,
followed by public kick-off meeting held the same day at 7:00 pm as part of the Planning Commission
hearing. The meetings covered the scope of work and an introduction to the DMA, CRS, and FMA
requirements. During the HMPC meetings, participants were provided with data collection worksheets to
facilitate the collection of information necessary to support development of the plan. Using FEMA
guidance, these worksheets were designed to capture information on past hazard events, identify hazards
of concern to the City, quantify values at risk to identified hazards, inventory existing capabilities, and to
record possible mitigation actions. A copy of the worksheets for this project are included in Appendix A.
The City and HMPC participants completed and returned the worksheets to Foster Morrison for
incorporation into the plan document.
During the planning process, the HMPC communicated through face-to-face meetings, email, telephone
conversations, file transfer protocol (ftp) and Dropbox websites, and through a City developed webpage
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dedicated to the plan development process. This later website was developed to provide information to the
HMPC, the public and all other stakeholders on the LHMP process. Draft documents were also posted on
these websites so that the HMPC members and the public could easily access and review them. The LHMP
website can be accessed at:
➢ http://www.ci.azusa.ca.us/1499/2017-Hazard-Mitigation-Plan
The HMPC met formally five times during the planning period (March 2017 – November 2018) which
adequately covers the four phases of DMA and the 10-Step CRS planning process. The formal meetings
held and topics discussed are described in Table 3-2. Agendas and sign-in sheets for each of the meetings
are included in Appendix A.
Table 3-2 HMPC Meetings
Meeting
Type
Meeting Topic Meeting
Date(s)
Meeting Location(s)
HMPC #1
Kick-off
Meeting
1) Introduction to DMA 2000 and the planning process
2) Organize Resources: (DMA/CRS Steps 1,2, &3): the
role of the HMPC, planning for public involvement,
coordinating with other agencies/stakeholders
3) Introduction to Hazard Identification
March 29,
2017
City of Azusa North
Recreation Center,
Memorial Park
HMPC #2 1) Risk assessment overview and work session
-DMA/CRS Step 4: Assess the Hazard
-DMA/CRS Step 5: Assess the Problem
June 14,
2017
Azusa Police Department
EOC
HMPC #3 1) Review of risk assessment summary
2) Review of mitigation goals
-DMA/CRS Step 6: Set Goals
August 15,
2017
Azusa Police Department
EOC
HMPC #4 1) Review of mitigation action alternatives
2) Identify list of mitigation actions by hazard
3) Review of mitigation selection criteria
4) Prioritize mitigation actions
5) Mitigation Action Strategy Implementation and Draft
Action Development
-DMA/CRS Step 7: Review possible activities
-DMA/CRS Step 8: Draft an Action Plan
August 16,
2017
Azusa Police Department
EOC
HMPC #5 1) Review of final HMPC, City, and public comments and
input to plan.
3) DMA/CRS Step 8: Draft an Action Plan
4) DMA/CRS Step 9 & 10: Plan maintenance and
Implementation Procedures
November
29, 2018
Azusa Police Department
EOC
Planning Step 2: Involve the Public
Up-front coordination discussions with the City of Azusa and HMPC established the initial plan for public
involvement. Public involvement activities for this LHMP included press releases, social media
communications, stakeholder and public meetings, development of an LHMP webpage and associated
website postings, the collection of public and stakeholder comments on the draft plan through a variety of
mechanisms, and other public outreach activities as further described below. Information provided to the
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public included an overview of the LHMP process, including a review of the hazard risk assessment and
proposed mitigation strategies for this LHMP.
Public Meetings
Three public meetings for the Azusa LHMP were held during key times of the LHMP development process:
Public Meeting #1: LHMP Kickoff
Public outreach for this LHMP began at the beginning of the plan development process with an
advertisement placed in the local newspaper and other local outreach methods to inform the public of the
purpose of the DMA and the hazard mitigation planning process for the City of Azusa. A press release was
also issued at the beginning of the project to invite the public to a public meeting for the kick-off the LHMP
project on March 29, 2017 at the Planning Commission Hearing in Azusa’s Civic Auditorium.
Public Meeting #2: Risk Assessment Overview
A second public meeting was held to provide an overview of the hazard risk assessment portion of the
LHMP. This meeting was held the evening of June 15, 2017 at the Planning Commission Hearing in
Azusa’s Civic Auditorium. This meeting was advertised through the City website and through direct emails
to those members of the public expressing an interest in the LHMP planning process.
Public Meeting #3: Meeting on the Draft LHMP
The first draft of the plan was provided to the HMPC in September of 2017, with a public review draft
provided in October of 2018. A public meeting was held on November 14, 2018 as part of the Planning
Commission hearing to present the draft LHMP and to collect public comments on the plan prior to
finalization and submittal to Cal OES/FEMA. The public meeting on the draft LHMP was advertised in a
variety of ways to maximize outreach efforts to both targeted groups and to the public at large and included
an advertisement in the local newspaper. The advertisement in the local newspaper included information
on the date, location and time of the meeting, where the draft plan could be accessed in the community, and
how to provide comments on the draft plan. In addition to a copy of the draft plan being placed on the City
website in advance of these meetings (see Figure 3-1), hard copies of the draft of the plan were made
available to interested parties at the City Planning Department and the Azusa Main Public Library.
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Figure 3-1 Public Notice of the Public Meeting #3 on the City Website
Documentation to support the public meetings can be found in Appendix A. In addition to advertisement
for public participation, notices of meetings were sent directly to all persons on the HMPC contact list and
also to other agency and key stakeholders with an interest in the Azusa LHMP project. The majority of
these people reside in Azusa, Los Angeles County and surrounding communities. The formal public
meetings for this project are summarized in Table 3-3.
Table 3-3 Schedule of Public and Stakeholder Meetings
Meeting Type Meeting Topic Meeting Date Meeting Locations
Public Meeting #1 1) Intro to DMA and mitigation
planning
2) The 2017 Azusa LHMP
Development Process
March 29, 2017 Planning Commission Hearing in
Azusa’s Civic Auditorium
Public Meeting #2 1) Risk Assessment Overview &
Mitigation Strategy Introduction
August 16, 2017 Planning Commission Hearing in
Azusa’s Civic Auditorium
Public Meeting #3 1)Presentation of Draft LHMP &
Mitigation Strategy and solicitation of
public and stakeholder comments
November 28, 2018 Planning Commission Hearing in
Azusa’s Civic Auditorium
Where appropriate, stakeholder and public comments and recommendations were incorporated into the
final plan throughout the plan development process, including the sections that address mitigation goals
and strategies. While several public meetings were held throughout the plan development process including
a meeting held on the draft Plan prior to agency submittal, no public comments or other public input was
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received on the LHMP documents. All press releases, newspaper advertisements and articles, website
postings, and public outreach efforts are on file with the Azusa Planning Department and are included in
Appendix A.
Planning Step 3: Coordinate with Other Departments and Agencies
Early in the planning process, the HMPC determined that data collection, mitigation strategy development,
and plan approval would be greatly enhanced by inviting other local, state and federal agencies and
organizations to participate in the process. Based on their involvement in hazard mitigation planning, their
landowner status in the City, and/or their interest as a neighboring jurisdiction, representatives from the
following agencies were invited via phone and email to participate on the HMPC:
➢ Cal DWR
➢ Cal Fire
➢ Cal OES
➢ City of Covina
➢ City of Duarte
➢ City of Glendora
➢ City of Irwindale
➢ FEMA IX Region - Hazard Mitigation
➢ Ham Radio Group
➢ LA – Disaster Management Area C
➢ LA County Public Works
➢ LA Emergency Management Department
➢ LA Fire
➢ National Weather Service
➢ Railroads
➢ Red Cross
➢ San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District
➢ So Cal GAS
➢ Southern California Edison
➢ U.S Army Corps of Engineers
➢ US Forest Service
➢ Verizon
Coordination with key agencies, organizations, and advisory groups throughout the planning process
allowed the HMPC to review common problems, development policies, and mitigation strategies as well
as identifying any conflicts or inconsistencies with regional mitigation policies, plans, programs and
regulations. Coordination involved contacting these agencies through a variety of mechanisms, including
email, phone calls, and during planning team meetings, and informing them on how to participate in the
LHMP process and if they had any expertise or assistance they could lend to the planning process, risk
assessment, or specific mitigation strategies
In addition, as part of the overall stakeholder and agency coordination effort, the HMPC coordinated with
and utilized input to the LHMP from the following agencies:
➢ CAL OES
➢ CAL FIRE
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➢ California Department of Finance
➢ California Department of Water Resources
➢ California Geological Survey
➢ FEMA Region IX
➢ Library of Congress
➢ Los Angeles County
➢ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association
➢ National Performance of Dams Program
➢ National Register of Historic Places
➢ National Resource Conservation Service
➢ National Response Center
➢ National Weather Service
➢ United States Army Corps of Engineers
➢ United States Bureau of Land Management
➢ United States Bureau of Reclamation
➢ United States Department of Agriculture
➢ United States Farm Service Agency
➢ United States Forest Service
➢ United States Geological Survey
➢ Western Regional Climate Center
Several opportunities were provided for the groups listed above to participate in the planning process. At
the beginning of the planning process, invitations were extended to many of these groups to actively
participate on the HMPC. Specific participants from these groups are detailed in Appendix A. Others
assisted in the process by providing data directly as requested in the Data Worksheets or through data
contained on their websites or as maintained by their offices. Further as part of the public outreach process,
all groups were invited to attend the public meetings and to review and comment on the plan prior to
submittal to CAL OES and FEMA. In addition, as part of the review of the draft plan, key agency
stakeholders were contacted and their comments specifically solicited.
Other Community Planning Efforts and Hazard Mitigation Activities
Coordination with other community planning efforts is also paramount to the success of this plan. Hazard
mitigation planning involves identifying existing policies, tools, and actions that will reduce a community’s
risk and vulnerability to hazards. Azusa uses a variety of comprehensive planning mechanisms, such as
general plans and ordinances, to guide growth and development. Integrating existing planning efforts and
mitigation policies and action strategies into this plan establishes a credible and comprehensive plan that
ties into and supports other community programs. The development of this Plan incorporated information
from the following existing plans, studies, reports, and initiatives as well as other relevant data from
neighboring communities and other jurisdictions.
➢ 2013 State of California Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan
➢ City of Azusa Emergency Operations Plan
➢ City of Azusa General Plan
➢ City of Azusa General Plan Background Report
➢ City of Azusa General Plan Environmental Impact Report
➢ City of Azusa Housing Element
➢ City of Azusa Special Plans
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➢ City of Azusa Urban Water Management Plan
➢ Colby Fire BAER Report
➢ CT Aerojet Project Mitigated Negative Declaration
➢ Los Angeles County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
➢ Los Angeles County Community Wildfire Protection Plan
➢ Los Angeles County Flood Insurance Study
➢ Los Angeles County Strategic Fire Plan
➢ Natural Resource Conservation Service Emergency Watershed Protection Program Plans
➢ USGS Great Shakeout Scenario
Specific source documents are referenced at the beginning of each section of Chapter 4 and Appendix B.
These and other documents were reviewed and considered, as appropriate, during the collection of data to
support Planning Steps 4 and 5, which include the hazard identification, vulnerability assessme nt, and
capability assessment. Data from these plans and ordinances were incorporated into the risk assessment
and hazard vulnerability sections of the Plan. Data was also used to support the resulting mitigation
strategy. Where the data from the existing studies and reports is used, the source document is referenced
throughout this LHMP. The data was also used in determining the capability of the community in being
able to implement certain mitigation strategies. Appendix B provides a detailed list of references used in
the preparation of this LHMP.
3.2.2. Phase 2: Assess Risks
Planning Steps 4 and 5: Identify the Hazards and Assess the Risks
Foster Morrison led the HMPC in a research effort to identify, document, and profile all the hazards that
have, or could have, an impact to the Planning Area. The HMPC relied on information from the City’s
Safety Element to the General Plan, the General Plan Background Report, the City’s EOP, and the 2013
State of California Hazard Mitigation Plan, and other sources to establish the hazards list for this LHMP.
Data collection worksheets and other data provided by the HMPC and other stakeholders were used in this
effort to aid in determining hazards and vulnerabilities and where the risk varies across the Planning Area.
Geographic information systems (GIS) were used to display, analyze, and quantify hazards and
vulnerabilities.
The HMPC also conducted a capability assessment to review and document the Planning Area’s current
capabilities to mitigate risk from and vulnerability to hazards. By collecting information about existing
government programs, policies, regulations, ordinances, and emergency plans, the HMPC could assess
those activities and measures already in place that contribute to mitigating some of the risks and
vulnerabilities identified. A more detailed description of the risk assessment process, methodologies, and
results are included in Chapter 4 Risk Assessment.
3.2.3. Phase 3: Develop the Mitigation Plan
Planning Steps 6 and 7: Set Goals and Review Possible Activities
Foster Morrison facilitated brainstorming and discussion sessions with the HMPC that described the
purpose and process of developing planning goals and objectives, a comprehensive range of mitigation
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alternatives, and a method of selecting and defending recommended mitigation actions using a series of
selection criteria. This information is included in Chapter 5 Mitigation Strategy. Additional documentation
on the process the HMPC used to develop the goals and strategy is in Appendix C.
Planning Step 8: Draft an Action Plan
Based on input from the HMPC regarding the draft risk assessment and the goals and activities identified
in Planning Steps 6 and 7, a complete first draft of the plan was developed. This complete draft was
provided for HMPC review and comment via a Dropbox web link. Other agencies were invited to comment
on this draft as well. HMPC and agency comments were integrated into the second public review draft,
which was advertised and distributed to collect public input and comments. The HMPC integrated
comments and issues from the public, as appropriate, along with additional internal review comments and
produced a final draft for the CAL OES and FEMA Region IX to review and approve, contingent upon
final adoption by the Azusa City Council.
3.2.4. Phase 4: Implement the Plan and Monitor Progress
Planning Step 9: Adopt the Plan
In order to secure buy-in and officially implement the plan, the plan was adopted by the governing board
of the City, the Azusa City Council, using the sample resolution contained in Appendix D.
Planning Step 10: Implement, Evaluate, and Revise the Plan
The true worth of any mitigation plan is in the effectiveness of its implementation. Up to this point in the
planning process, all of the HMPC’s efforts have been directed at researching data, coordinating input from
participating entities, and developing appropriate mitigation actions. Each recommended action includes
key descriptors, such as a lead manager and possible funding sources, to help initiate implementation. An
overall implementation strategy is described in Chapter 7 Plan Implementation and Maintenance.
Finally, there are numerous organizations within Azusa whose goals and interests interface with hazard
mitigation. Coordination with these other planning efforts, as addressed in Planning Step 3, is paramount
to the implementation and ongoing success of this plan and mitigation in Azusa and is addressed further in
Chapter 7.
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Chapter 4 Risk Assessment
Requirement §201.6(c)(2): [The plan shall include] A risk assessment that provides the factual basis
for activities proposed in the strategy to reduce losses from identified hazards. Local risk assessments
must provide sufficient information to enable the jurisdiction to identify and prioritize appropriate
mitigation actions to reduce losses from identified hazards.
As defined by FEMA, risk is a combination of hazard, vulnerability, and exposure. “It is the impact that a
hazard would have on people, services, facilities, and structures in a community and refers to the likelihood
of a hazard event resulting in an adverse condition that causes injury or damage.”
The risk assessment process identifies and profiles relevant hazards and assesses the exposure of lives,
property, and infrastructure to these hazards. The process allows for a better understanding of a
jurisdiction’s potential risk to hazards and provides a framework for developing and prioritizing mitigation
actions to reduce risk from future hazard events.
This risk assessment followed the methodology described in the FEMA publication Understanding Your
Risks—Identifying Hazards and Estimating Losses (FEMA 386-2, 2002), which breaks the assessment into
a four-step process:
1. Identify hazards
2. Profile hazard events
3. Inventory assets
4. Estimate losses
Data collected through this process has been incorporated into the following sections of this chapter:
➢ Section 4.1 Hazard Identification: Natural Hazards identifies the natural hazards that threaten the City
and describes why some hazards have been omitted from further consideration.
➢ Section 4.2 Hazard Profiles discusses the threat to the City and describes previous occurrences of
hazard events and the likelihood of future occurrences.
➢ Section 4.3 Vulnerability Assessment assesses the City’s total exposure to natural hazards,
considering assets at risk, critical facilities, populations, and future development trends.
➢ Section 4.4 Capability Assessment inventories existing mitigation activities and policies, regulations,
and plans that pertain to mitigation in the City and can affect net vulnerability.
This risk assessment covers the entire geographical extent of the City of Azusa Planning Area.
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4.1 Hazard Identification: Natural Hazards
Requirement §201.6(c)(2)(i): [The risk assessment shall include a] description of the type…of all
natural hazards that can affect the jurisdiction.
The HMPC conducted a hazard identification study to determine the hazards that threaten the City. This
section details the methodology and results of this effort.
Data Sources
The following data sources were used for this Hazard Identification: Natural Hazards portion of the plan:
➢ HMPC input
➢ Cal OES
➢ NCDC
➢ 2014 Los Angeles County All Hazard Mitigation Plan
➢ 2013 State of California Hazard Mitigation Plan
➢ City of Azusa General Plan
➢ FEMA Disaster Declaration Database
4.1.1. Methodology and Results
Using existing natural hazards data and input gained through the kickoff planning meeting, the HMPC
agreed upon a list of natural hazards that could affect Azusa. Hazards data from the California Office of
Emergency Services (Cal OES), FEMA, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
and many other sources were examined to assess the significance of these hazards to the City. Significance
of each identified hazard was measured in general terms and focused on key criteria such as frequency and
resulting damage, which includes deaths and injuries, as well as property and economic damage. The
natural hazards evaluated as part of this plan include those that have occurred historically or have the
potential to cause significant human and/or monetary losses in the future.
As a starting point, the updated 2013 California State Hazard Mitigation Plan was consulted to evaluate the
applicability of State hazards of concern to the City. Building upon this effort, hazards from the Los
Angeles County LHMP and the City of Azusa General Plan were also identified and considered.
The worksheet below was completed by the HMPC to identify, profile, and rate the significance of
identified hazards. Only the more significant (or priority) hazards have a more detailed hazard profile and
are analyzed further in Section 4.3 Vulnerability Assessment. Table 4-1 in Section 4.2.15 Natural Hazards
Summary provides an overview of these significant hazards.
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Table 4-1 City of Azusa Hazard Assessment
Hazard
Geographic
Extent
Likelihood of
Future Occurrences
Magnitude/
Severity Significance
Climate Change
Impacts
Climate Change Extensive Likely Negligible Low ---
Dam Failure Extensive Unlikely Catastrophic High Low
Drought and Water
Shortage Extensive Likely Limited Medium
Medium
Earthquake Extensive Likely Catastrophic High Low
Earthquake Liquefaction Extensive Occasional Catastrophic High Low
Flood: 1%/0.2% chance Significant Occasional/ Unlikely Critical Medium Medium
Flood:
Localized/Stormwater Limited Highly Likely Negligible Medium
Medium
Landslide and Mudslides Limited Likely Limited Low Low
Levee Failure Limited Unlikely Negligible Medium Low
Severe Weather:
Extreme Heat Extensive Highly Likely Negligible Low
Medium
Severe Weather: Heavy
Rains and Storms Extensive Highly Likely Negligible Medium
Medium
Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes Extensive Highly Likely Limited Low Low
Wildfire Significant Likely Critical High Medium
Geographic Extent
Limited: Less than 10% of City
Significant: 10-50% of City
Extensive: 50-100% of City
Probability of Future Occurrences
Highly Likely: Near 100% chance of
occurrence in next year, or happens every
year.
Likely: Between 10 and 100% chance of
occurrence in next year, or has a
recurrence interval of 10 years or less.
Occasional: Between 1 and 10% chance
of occurrence in the next year, or has a
recurrence interval of 11 to 100 years.
Unlikely: Less than 1% chance of
occurrence in next 100 years, or has a
recurrence interval of greater than every
100 years.
Magnitude/Severity
Catastrophic—More than 50 percent of property severely damaged;
shutdown of facilities for more than 30 days; and/or multiple deaths
Critical—25-50 percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities
for at least two weeks; and/or injuries and/or illnesses result in permanent
disability
Limited—10-25 percent of property severely damaged, shutdown of
facilities for more than a week; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable do not
result in permanent disability
Negligible—Less than 10 percent of property severely damaged, shutdown
of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or injuries/illnesses
treatable with first aid
Significance
Low: minimal potential impact
Medium: moderate potential impact
High: widespread potential impact
Climate Change Impact:
Low: Climate change is not likely to increase the probability of this hazard.
Medium: Climate change is likely to increase the probability of this hazard.
High: Climate change is very likely to increase the probability of this hazard.
Hazards not covered in this plan are shown in Table 4-2.
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Table 4-2 Azusa – Hazards Not Included
Hazard Why not included
Tsunami There is no coastline in the City.
Volcano No volcanoes are located near the City.
Avalanche Snow does not occur near the City.
Energy Shortage The City does not consider this a natural hazard.
Freeze Freeze is very rare in the City.
Insect Pests and Diseases The City does not consider this a natural hazard.
Epidemic The City does not consider this a natural hazard.
Hazardous Materials The City does not consider this a natural hazard.
Marine Invasive Species The City does not consider this a natural hazard.
Natural Gas Pipeline Hazards The City does not consider this a natural hazard.
Oil Spills The City does not consider this a natural hazard.
Radiological Incidents The City does not consider this a natural hazard.
Terrorism The City does not consider this a natural hazard.
Cyber Threats The City does not consider this a natural hazard.
4.1.2. Disaster Declaration History
One method to identify hazards based upon past occurrences is to look at what events triggered federal
and/or state disaster declarations within the City (though disaster declarations are declared on a county
basis). Disaster declarations are granted when the severity and magnitude of the event’s impact surpass the
ability of the local government to respond and recover. Disaster assistance is supplemental and sequential.
When the local government’s capacity has been surpassed, a state disaster declaration may be issue d,
following the local agency’s declaration, allowing for the provision of state assistance. Should the disaster
be so severe that both the local and state government’s capacity is exceeded, a federal disaster declaration
may be issued allowing for the provision of federal disaster assistance.
The federal government may issue a disaster declaration through FEMA, the U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA), and/or the Small Business Administration (SBA). FEMA also issues emergency
declarations, which are more limited in scope and without the long-term federal recovery programs of major
disaster declarations. The quantity and types of damage are the determining factors. This section focuses
on state and federal disaster and emergency declarations.
Los Angeles County has experience 69 federal and 63 state declarations since 1950. 43 of the federal
declarations were associated with fire events, 12 with flood events, 6 with severe storm, 3 with earthquake,
1 with dam failure, 2 with freezing, and 1 with hurricane (for evacuations stemming from Hurricane Katrina
in 2005), and one with other (for a seismic sea wave in 1964). 19 of the state declarations were associated
with fire events, 14 were associated with flood events, 8 were associated with agricultural disease, 7 were
associated with severe storms, 5 were related to earthquake, 2 were related to drought, 2 were economic, 1
was related to freeze, 1 was related to high winds, 1 was related to a dam failure, 1 was related to landslide,
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1 was related to a collision on I-5, and 1 was related to civil unrest. Details of federal and state disaster
declarations is shown in Table 4-3. A summary of federal and state disaster declarations is shown in Table
4-4.
Table 4-3 Los Angeles County Disaster Declaration History 1950 to 2017
Year Disaster
Type
Disaster Cause County Disaster
Number
State
Declaration
Date
Federal
Declaration
Date
1950 Flood 1950 Floods Statewide OCD 50‐01 11/21/1950 –
1954 Flood Flood & Erosion Statewide DR – 15 – 2/5/1954
1955 Flood Flood Statewide DR – 47 12/22/1955 12/23/1955
1956 Fire Forest Fire Statewide DR – 65 – 12/29/1956
1958 Fire Newton Fires (Monrovia Fires) Los Angeles CDO 58‐01 1/3/1958 –
1958 Flood Heavy Rainstorms & Flood Statewide DR – 82 4/2/1958 4/4/1958
1959 Flood Potential Flood Damage and
Landsides as a Result of Fires
Los Angeles CDO 59‐01 1/8/1959 –
1961 Fire Fire (Los Angeles County) Statewide DR – 119 – 11/16/1961
1962 Flood Floods Statewide DR – 122 2/16/62
2/23/62
3/6/1962
1962 Flood Severe Storms & Flooding Statewide DR – 138 – 10/24/1962
1963 Flood Severe Storms, Heavy Rains &
Flooding
Statewide DR – 145 – 2/25/1963
1963 Dam/Levee
Break
Flood Due to Broken Dam Statewide DR – 161 3/16/1964 12/21/1963
1964 Other Seismic Sea Wave Statewide DR – 169 – 4/1/1964
1964 Fire Weldon Fire Los Angeles N/A 3/16/1964 –
964 Storms Floods Los Angeles N/A 4/3/1964 –
1965 Landslide 1965 Landslide Los Angeles N/A 6/21/1965 –
1965 Civil Unrest 1965 Riots Los Angeles N/A 8/14/1965 –
1976 Fire Woodson Fire Los Angeles N/A 1/7/1967 –
1969 Flood Severe Storms & Flooding Los Angeles DR – 253 1/23/69,
1/25,69,
1/28/69,
1/29/69,
2/8/69,
2/10/69,
2/16/69,
3/12/69
1/26/1969
1970 Fire Forest & Brush Fires Los Angeles DR – 295 9/24/70,
9/28/70,
10/1/70,
10/2/70,
10/20/70,
11/14/70
9/29/1970
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Year Disaster
Type
Disaster Cause County Disaster
Number
State
Declaration
Date
Federal
Declaration
Date
1971 Earthquake San Fernando Earthquake Los Angeles DR – 299 2/9/1971 2/9/1971
1972 Agricultural
Disease
Exotic Newcastle Disease
Epidemic
Los Angeles N/A 4/10/72,
5/22/72
–
1973 Fire 1973 Fires Los Angeles N/A 7/16/1973 –
1974 Economic Gasoline Shortage - OPEC Los Angeles N/A 2/28/74,
3/4/74,
3/10/74
–
1975 Fire 1975 Fires Los Angeles N/A 11/24/1975 –
1976 Drought 1976 Drought Los Angeles N/A 2/9/76,
2/13,76,
2/24/76,
3/26/76,
7/6/76
–
1978 Flood Coastal Storms, Mudslides &
Flooding
Los Angeles DR – 547 3/9/78,
2/27,78,
2/13/78
2/15/1978
1978 Fire Brush Fires Los Angeles EM – 3067 10/24/1978 10/29/1978
1979 Fire 1979 Fires Los Angeles N/A 9/28/79,
9/21/79,
9/20/79
–
1979 Economic Gasoline Shortage - OPEC Los Angeles N/A 5/8/79 ‐
11/13/79
–
1980 Flood Severe Storms, Mudslides &
Flooding
Los Angeles DR – 615 2/21/80,
2/7/80,
2/19/80
2/21/1980
1980 Fire Brush & Timber Fires Los Angeles DR – 635 11/18/1980,
11/25/80
11/27/1980
1981 Agricultural
Insect pest
1981 Mediterranean Fruit Fly
Infestation
Los Angeles N/A 8/8/81 ‐
9/25/81
–
1982 Fire Dayton Hills Fire Los Angeles GP 1982 10/10/1982 –
1983 Coastal
Storm
Coastal Storms, Floods, Slides &
Tornadoes
Los Angeles DR – 677 12/8/82‐
3/21/83
2/9/1983
1983 Flood 1983 Floods Los Angeles 82‐19 3/83 –
1983 High Winds Wind Storms Los Angeles 83‐01 3/83 –
1983 Agricultural
Insect pests
Mexican Fruit Fly Los Angeles N/A 11/4/1983 –
1985 Fire 1985 Statewide Fires Los Angeles DR‐739 7/1/85 ‐
7/11/85
7/18/1985
1987 Agricultural
Insect pest
Mediterranean Fruit Fly Los Angeles GP 1987 8/25/1987 –
1987 Earthquake Earthquake & Aftershocks Los Angeles DR – 799 10/2/87 ‐
10/5/87
10/7/1987
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Year Disaster
Type
Disaster Cause County Disaster
Number
State
Declaration
Date
Federal
Declaration
Date
1988 Flood Severe Storms, High Tides &
Flooding
Los Angeles DR – 812 1/21/1988 2/5/1988
1988 Fire 1988 Fires Los Angeles GP 87‐07 5/88 –
1988 Agricultural
Insect pest
Mediterranean Fruit Fly Los Angeles GP 1988 7/21/1988 –
1988 Fire Fires (Los Angeles) Los Angeles GP 88‐03 12/9/1988 –
1989 Agricultural
Insect pest
Mediterranean Fruit Fly (Los
Angeles)
Los Angeles GP 1989 8/9/1989 –
1990 Earthquake Earthquake Los Angeles GP 89‐07 3/9/90,
3/13/90
–
1990 Agricultural
Insect pest
Mexican Fruit Fly Los Angeles GP 1990 5/14/1990 –
1990 Fire Fires Los Angeles DR – 872 6/28/90,
6/29/90
6/30/1990
1991 Freezing Severe Freeze Los Angeles DR – 894 12/19/90‐
1/18/91
2/11/1991
1991 Earthquake Sierra Madre Earthquake Los Angeles GP 91‐04 7/5/1991 –
1992 Flood Rain/Snow/Wind Storms,
Flooding, Mudslides
Los Angeles DR – 935 2/12/92,
2/19/92
2/25/1992
1992 Fire Fire During a Period Of Civil
Unrest
Los Angeles DR – 942 4/29/1992 5/2/1992
1993 Flood Severe Winter Storm, Mud &
Land Slides, & Flooding
Los Angeles DR – 979 1/7/93 ‐
2/19/93
2/3/1993
1993 Fire Fires, Mud/Landslides, Flooding,
Soil Erosion
Los Angeles DR – 1005 – 10/28/1993
1994 Earthquake Northridge Earthquake Los Angeles DR – 1008 1/17/94,
1/24/94
1/17/1994
1995 Severe
Storm
Severe Winter Storms, Flooding,
Landslides, Mud Flows
Los Angeles DR – 1044 1/6/95 ‐
3/14/95
1/10/1995
1995 Severe
Storm
Severe Winter Storms, Flooding
Landslides, Mud Flow
Los Angeles DR – 1046 1/6/95 ‐
3/14/95
3/12/1995
1996 Severe Fires Fire Los Angeles 96‐04 1996 10/22/1996 –
1996 Fire Severe Firestorms Los Angeles EM – 3120 10/1/1996 10/23/1996
1998 Severe
Storm
Severe Winter Storms and
Flooding
Los Angeles DR – 1203 Proclaimed 2/9/1998
2001 Flood Storms Los Angeles DC 2001‐01
2001
3/1/2001 –
2001 Economic Greed Statewide GP 2001 1/1/2001 –
2002 Fire Ca - Copper Fire Los Angeles FS – 2417 – 6/6/2002
2002 Fire Leona Fire Los Angeles FS – 2462 – 9/4/2002
2002 Fire Williams Fire Los Angeles FS – 2464 – 9/24/2002
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Year Disaster
Type
Disaster Cause County Disaster
Number
State
Declaration
Date
Federal
Declaration
Date
2003 Agricultural
Disease
Exotic Newcastle Disease
Epidemic
Los Angeles GP 2003
2003
1/3/2003
2003 Fire Ca - Wildfire (Pacific Fire) Los Angeles FM – 2466 – 1/7/2003
2003 Fire Ca-Verdale Fire Los Angeles FM – 2502 – 10/25/2003
2003 Fire Wildfires, Flooding, Mudflow
And Debris Flow
Los Angeles DR – 1498 10/26/2003 10/27/2003
2003 Flood Storms Los Angeles GP 2003‐04
2
11/14/2003 –
2004 Fire Ca - Pine Fire Los Angeles FM – 2528 7/14/2004
2004 Fire Ca-Foothill Wildfire Los Angeles FM – 2534 – 7/18/2004
2004 Fire Ca-Crown Wildfire Los Angeles FM – 2535 – 7/21/2004
2005 Severe
Storm
Severe Storms, Flooding, Debris
Flows, And Mudslides
Los Angeles DR – 1577
GP2005‐01
1/12/2005 2/4/2005
2005 Severe
Storm
Severe Storms, Flooding,
Landslides, And Mud And Debris
Flows
Los Angeles DR – 1585 3/16/2005 4/14/2005
2005 Hurricane Hurricane Katrina Evacuation Los Angeles EM – 3248 – 9/13/2005
2005 Fire Topanga Fire Los Angeles FM – 2583 – 9/28/2005
2007 Freezing Severe Freeze Los Angeles DR – 1689 – 3/13/2007
2007 Fire Griffith Park Fire Los Angeles FM – 2691 – 5/9/2007
2007 Fire Island Fire Los Angeles FM – 2694 – 5/10/2007
2007 Fire Canyon Fire Los Angeles FM – 2708 – 7/8/2007
2007 Fire Buckweed Fire Los Angeles FM – 2733 – 10/21/2007
2007 Fire Canyon Fire Los Angeles FM – 2732 – 10/21/2007
2007 Fire Ranch Fire Los Angeles FM – 2736 – 10/22/2007
2007 Fire Wildfires Los Angeles EM – 3279 – 10/23/2007
2007 I‐5 Major
Collision
Road Damage Accident Los Angeles GP 2007‐13 10/14/2007 –
2007 Fire Wildfires, Flooding, Mud Flows,
And Debris Flows
Los Angeles DR – 1731 – 10/24/2007
2008 Fire Santa Anita Fire Los Angeles FM – 2763 – 4/27/2008
2008 Fire Firestorms and Flooding Los Angeles GP 2008‐09
2008
4/27/2008 –
2008 Fire Marek Fire Los Angeles FM – 2788 – 10/12/2008
2008 Fire Sesnon Fire Los Angeles FM – 2789 – 10/13/2008
2008 Fire Freeway Fire Complex Los Angeles FM – 2792 – 11/15/2008
2008 Fire Sayre Fire Los Angeles FM – 2791 – 11/15/2008
2008 Fire Wildfires Los Angeles DR – 1810 – 11/18/2008
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Year Disaster
Type
Disaster Cause County Disaster
Number
State
Declaration
Date
Federal
Declaration
Date
2009 Fire Pv Fire Los Angeles FM – 2828 – 8/28/2009
2009 Fire Station Fire Los Angeles FM – 2830 – 8/28/2009
2009 Fire Los Angeles County Wildfires Los Angeles GP-2009-05 N/A –
2010 Severe
Storm
Severe Winter Storms, Flooding,
And Debris and Mud Flows
Los Angeles DR – 1884 1/21/2010,
1/22/2010,
1/27/2010
3/8/2010
2010 Fire Crown Fire Los Angeles FM – 2851 – 7/30/2010
2013 Fire Powerhouse Fire Los Angeles FM – 5025 – 6/2/2013
2014 Fire Colby Fire Los Angeles FM – 5051 – 1/16/2014
2014 California
Drought
Drought Drought GP 2014-13 1/17/2014 –
2016 Fire Old Fire Los Angeles FM – 5124 – 6/5/2016
2016 Fire Fish Fire Los Angeles FM – 5129 – 6/21/2016
2016 Fire Sage Fire Los Angeles FM – 5132 – 7/9/2016
2016 Fire Sand Fire Los Angeles FM – 5135 – 7/23/2016
Source: Cal OES, FEMA
Table 4-4 Los Angeles County Disaster Declaration History 1950 to 2017 Summary
Disaster Type Federal Declarations State Declarations
Count Years Count Years
Agricultural Disease 0 – 8 1972, 1981, 1983, 1987, 1988,
1989, 1990, 2003
Civil Unrest 0 – 1 1965
Dam/Levee Break 1 1963 1 1963
Drought 0 – 2 1976, 2014
Earthquake 3 1971, 1987, 1994 5 1971, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1994
Economic 0 – 2 1979, 2001
Fire 43 1956, 1961, 1970, 1978, 1980,
1985, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1996,
2002 (three times), 2003 (three
times), 2004 (three times), 2005,
2007 (eight times), 2008 (six
times), 2009 (twice), 2010, 2013,
2014, 2016 (four times)
19 1958, 1964, 1970, 1973, 1975,
1976, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1982,
1985, 1988 (twice), 1990, 1992,
1996 (twice), 2003, 2008
Flood 12 1954, 1955, 1958, 1962 (two
times), 1963, 1969, 1978, 1980,
1988, 1992, 1993
14 1950, 1955, 1958, 1959, 1962,
1969, 1978, 1980, 1983, 1988,
1992, 1993, 2001, 2003
Freeze 2 1991, 2007 1 1991
High Winds 0 – 1 1983
Hurricane 1 2005 0 –
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Disaster Type Federal Declarations State Declarations
Count Years Count Years
I-5 Collision 0 – 1 2007
Landslide 0 – 1 1965
Other 1 1964 0 –
Severe Storms 6 1995 (twice), 1998, 2005 (twice),
2010
7 1964, 1995 (twice), 1998, 2005
(twice), 2010
Totals 69 – 63 –
Source: Cal OES, FEMA
4.2 Hazard Profiles
Requirement §201.6(c)(2)(i): [The risk assessment shall include a] description of the…location and
extent of all natural hazards that can affect the jurisdiction. The plan shall include information on
previous occurrences of hazard events and on the probability of future hazard events.
The hazards identified in Section 4.1 Hazard Identification Natural Hazards, are profiled individually in
this section. In general, information provided by planning team members is integrated into this section with
information from other data sources. These profiles set the stage for Section 4.3 Vulnerability Assessment,
where the vulnerability is quantified, as data allows, for each of the priority hazards.
Each hazard is profiled in the following format:
➢ Hazard/Problem Description—This section gives a description of the hazard and associated issues
followed by details on the hazard specific to the City. Where known, this includes information on the
hazard location and extent, seasonal patterns, speed of onset/duration, and magnitude and/or any
secondary effects.
➢ Past Occurrences—This section contains information on historical incidents, including impacts where
known. The extent or location of the hazard within or near the City is also included here. Historical
incident worksheets were used to capture information from the City on past occurrences.
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence—The frequency of past events is used in this section to gauge the
likelihood of future occurrences. Where possible, frequency was calculated based on existing data. It
was determined by dividing the number of events observed by the number of years on record and
multiplying by 100. This gives the percent chance of the event happening in any given year (e.g., three
droughts over a 30-year period equates to a 10 percent chance of a experiencing a drought in any given
year). The likelihood of future occurrences is categorized into one of the following classifications:
✓ Highly Likely—Near 100 percent chance of occurrence in next year or happens every year
✓ Likely—Between 10 and 100 percent chance of occurrence in next year or has a recurrence interval
of 10 years or less
✓ Occasional—Between 1 and 10 percent chance of occurrence in the next year or has a recurrence
interval of 11 to 100 years
✓ Unlikely—Less than 1 percent chance of occurrence in next 100 years or has a recurrence interval
of greater than every 100 years.
➢ Climate Change—This section contains the effects of climate change (if applicable). The possible
ramifications of climate change on the hazard are discussed.
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Section 4.2.15 Natural Hazards Summary provides an initial assessment of the profiles and assigns a
level of significance or priority to each hazard. Those hazards determined to be of medium or high
significance were characterized as priority hazards that required further evaluation in Section 4.3
Vulnerability Assessment. Those hazards that occur infrequently or have little or no impact on the City
were determined to be of low significance and not considered a priority hazard. Significance was
determined based on the hazard profile, focusing on key criteria such as frequency and resulting damage,
including deaths/injuries and property, crop, and economic damage. This assessment was used by the
HMPC to prioritize those hazards of greatest significance to the City, enabling Azusa to focus resources
where they are most needed.
The following sections provide profiles of the natural hazards that the HMPC identified in Section 4.1
Hazard Identification. Given that most disasters that affect the City are directly or indirectly related to
severe weather events, severe weather hazards begin this section, and the other individual hazard profiles
follow alphabetically.
Data Sources
The following data sources formed the basis for this Hazard Profiles portion of the plan:
➢ 2013 State of California Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan
➢ 2014 USGS National Seismic Hazard Maps
➢ CAL FIRE Wildfire History Database
➢ Cal-Adapt
➢ California Climate Adaptation Strategy
➢ California Department of Conservation
➢ California Department of Water Resources
➢ California Department of Water Resources Best Available Maps
➢ California Department of Water Resources Division of Safety of Dams
➢ California Division of Mines and Geology
➢ California Division of Mines and Geology. Earthquake Shaking Potential for California, 2003.
➢ California Geological Survey
➢ California Natural Resources Agency
➢ California’s Drought of 2007-2009, An Overview. State of California Natural Resources Agency,
California Department of Water Resources.
➢ City of Azusa General Plan Background Report
➢ City of Azusa General Plan Environmental Impact Report
➢ City of Azusa General Plan.
➢ City of Azusa Housing Element 2014-2021
➢ City of Azusa Light and Water Department
➢ City of Azusa Public Works
➢ City of Azusa, "Analysis of Existing Conditions and Trends," December 2001.
➢ Climate Change Impacts in the United States
➢ Enhanced Fujita Scale. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center.
➢ Federal Emergency Management Agency – Wind Zones in the United States
➢ Federal Emergency Management Agency: Building Performance Assessment: Oklahoma and Kansas
Tornadoes
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➢ Federal Emergency Management Agency: Multi-Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment.
➢ Galloway, Jr Dr. Gerald E. Levees in History: The Levee Challenge. Water Policy Collaborative,
University of Maryland, Visiting Scholar, USACE, IWR.
➢ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
➢ Johnstone, J. and Dawson, T. Climatic context and ecological implications of summer fog decline in
the coast redwood region. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, January 7, 2010.
➢ LA Almanac
➢ Los Angeles County Community Wildfire Protection Plan
➢ Los Angeles County Flood Insurance Study
➢ Los Angeles County Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
➢ Multi-Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment, FEMA 1997
➢ National Aeronautics and Space Administration
➢ National Climatic Data Center Storm Events Database.
➢ National Drought Mitigation Center
➢ National Flood Insurance Program
➢ National Integrated Drought Information System
➢ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center
➢ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Climatic Data Center
➢ National Performance of Dams Program
➢ National Weather Service Heat Index
➢ National Weather Service Wind Chill Index
➢ Public Policy Institute of California. If drought continues: Environment and poor rural communities
most likely to suffer. [press release].
➢ Underwood, E. Models predict longer, deeper US droughts. Science, 347(6223) 707 DOI:
10.1126/science.347.6223.707. 2015.
➢ United State Geologic Survey. Earthquake Intensity Zonation and Quaternary Deposits, Miscellaneous
Field Studies Map 9093, 1977.
➢ University of California Santa Barbara Department of Geology
➢ US Army Corps of Engineers
➢ US Bureau of Reclamation
➢ US Drought Monitor
➢ US Geological Survey
➢ US Geological Survey Open File Report 2015‐3009
➢ USA TODAY
➢ USDA Secretarial Disasters Declarations
➢ Western Regional Climate Center
➢ Wildfire Today
4.2.1. Severe Weather: General
Severe weather is generally any destructive weather event, but usually occurs in the City as localized storms
that bring heavy rain, strong winds, and sometimes hail and lightning.
NOAA’s National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) has been tracking severe weather since 1950. Their Storm
Events Database contains county level data on the following: all weather events from 1993 to current
(except from 6/1993-7/1993); and additional data from the Storm Prediction Center, which includes
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tornadoes (1950-1992), thunderstorm winds (1955-1992), and hail (1955-1992). This database contains
854 severe weather events that occurred in Los Angeles County between January 1, 1950, and December
31, 2016. Table 4-5 summarizes these events.
Table 4-5 NCDC Weather Events for Los Angeles County, 1950 to December 31, 2016*
Event Type Number
of Events
Deaths Injuries Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
Deaths
(indirect)
Injuries
(indirect)
Avalanche 1 3 3 $0 $0 0 0
Coastal Flood 1 0 1 $0 $0 0 0
Debris Flows 2 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Dense Fog 1 0 41 $0 $0 0 0
Dust Devil 3 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Dust Storm 1 0 1 $0 $0 0 0
Excessive Heat 10 8 0 $0 $0 0 0
Flash Flood 129 7 4 $1,310,000 $3,200,00 0 0
Flood 17 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Frost/Freeze 3 0 0 0 $8,200,000 0 0
Funnel Cloud 9 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Hail 24 0 0 $3,500,000 $0 0 0
Heat 10 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Heavy Rain 13 0 4 $5,000,000 $0 0 0
Heavy Snow 26 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
High Surf 30 5 3 $40,000,000 $0 1 0
High Wind 319 0 1 $0 $0 0 0
Lightning 9 2 13 $0 $0 0 0
Rip Current 4 4 1 $0 $0 0 0
Sneakerwave 1 1 4 $0 $0 0 0
Storm Surge/Tide 1 0 27 $0 $0 0 0
Strong Wind 3 2 1 $0 $0 0 1
Thunderstorm Winds 59 0 10 $55,000 $0 0 0
Tornado 44 0 45 $61,195,310 $0 0 0
Tropical Storm 4 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Waterspout 5 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Wildfire 48 0 46 $99,800,000 $0 0 2
Winter Storm 59 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Winter Weather 18 3 0 $0 $0 0 0
Total 854 35 205 $210,860,310 $8,203,200 1 3
Source: NCDC
*Note: Losses reflect totals for all impacted areas, not just Los Angeles County or Azusa
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The NCDC table above summarizes severe weather events that occurred in Los Angeles County, many of
which likely similarly affected Azusa. Only a few of the events actually resulted in state and federal disaster
declarations.
As previously mentioned, many of Los Angeles County’s state and federal disaster declarations have been
a result of severe weather and related flooding. For this plan, severe weather is discussed in the following
subsections:
➢ Extreme Heat
➢ Heavy Rains and Storms
➢ High Winds and Tornadoes
While the HMPC decided not to include cold and freeze as a hazard, cold weather does happen periodically,
with little effect to the City. Record colds are shown in Table 4-6.
Table 4-6 Azusa – Record Cold Temperatures by Month from 1917 to 2012
Month Temperature Date Month Temperature Date
January 34 1/11/1921 July 40 7/22/1926
February 30 2/9/1929 August 49 8/25/1919
March 33 3/26/1924 September 40 9/26/1929
April 32 4/23/1920 October 40 10/11/11924
May 41 5/8/1930 November 32 11/28/1919
June 47 6/1/1927 December 35 12/19/1924
Source: Western Regional Climate Center – San Gabriel Canyon Coop Station
4.2.2. Severe Weather: Extreme Heat Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
According to information provided by FEMA, extreme heat is defined as temperatures that hover 10 degrees
or more above the average high temperature for the region and last for several weeks. Heat kills by taxing
the human body beyond its abilities. In a normal year, about 175 Americans succumb to the demands of
summer heat. According to the NWS, among natural hazards, only the cold of winter—not lightning,
hurricanes, tornados, floods, or earthquakes—takes a greater toll. In the 40-year period from 1936 through
1975, nearly 20,000 people were killed in the United States by the effects of heat. In the heat wave of 1980,
more than 1,250 people died.
Heat disorders generally have to do with a reduction or collapse of the body’s ability to shed heat by
circulatory changes and sweating or a chemical (salt) imbalance caused by too much sweating. When heat
gain exceeds the level the body can remove, or when the body cannot compensate for fluids and salt lost
through perspiration, the temperature of the body’s inner core begins to rise and heat -related illness may
develop. Elderly persons, small children, chronic invalids, those on certain medications or drugs, and
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persons with weight and alcohol problems are particularly susceptible to heat reactions, especially during
heat waves in areas where moderate climate usually prevails.
Location
Extreme heat events occur on a regional basis. Extreme heat can occur in any location of the City. All
portions of the City are at risk to extreme heat. Extreme heat occurs throughout the Planning Area primarily
during the summer months. The WRCC maintains data on weather normal and extremes in the western
United States. WRCC data for the County is summarized below. There is a COOP weather station in the
City, however it stopped recording data in 1972. Information from the San Gabriel Canyon weather station
(the closest station with a more current record) is summarized below.
San Gabriel Canyon Weather Station, Period of Record 1917 to 2016
In the City, the Western Regional Climate Center shows that monthly average high temperatures in the
warmest months (June through September) range from the mid 70s to low 90s. The highest recorded daily
extreme was 117°F on June 17, 1917. In a typical year, maximum temperatures exceed 90°F on 73 days.
Average and high temperatures for the County are shown in Figure 4-1. Details of monthly high
temperatures are shown in Table 4-7.
Figure 4-1 Daily Average Temperatures and Extremes – San Gabriel Canyon Station
Source: Western Regional Climate Center
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Table 4-7 Record High Temperatures – San Gabriel Canyon Station
Month Temperature Date Month Temperature Date
January 99 1/2/1953 July 107 7/17/1917
February 92 2/16/1930 August 109 8/12/2012
March 92 3/23/1927 September 112 9/15/2012
April 100 4/21/2012 October 110 10/02/2012
May 102 5/13/1927 November 97 11/21/1924
June 117 6/17/1917 December 90 12/18/1929
Source: Western Regional Climate Center
Extent
Heat emergencies are often slower to develop, taking several days of continuous, oppressive heat before a
significant or quantifiable impact is seen. Heat waves do not strike victims immediately, but rather their
cumulative effects slowly take the lives of vulnerable populations. Heat waves do not cause damage or
elicit the immediate response of floods, fires, earthquakes, or other more “typical” disaster scenarios. While
heat waves are obviously less dramatic, they are potentially more deadly. According to the 2013 California
State Hazard Mitigation Plan, the worst single heat wave event in California occurred in Southern California
in 1955, when an eight-day heat wave resulted in 946 deaths. Severe heat in California often causes rolling
blackouts. These blackouts have occurred in the past (namely 2001 and 2002) and can increase the risk of
injury or death.
The NWS has in place a system to initiate alert procedures (advisories or warnings) when extreme heat is
expected to have a significant impact on public safety. The expected severity of the heat determines whether
advisories or warnings are issued. The NWS HeatRisk forecast provides a quick view of heat risk potential
over the upcoming seven days. The heat risk is portrayed in a numeric (0-4) and color
(green/yellow/orange/red/magenta) scale which is similar in approach to the Air Quality Index (AQI) or the
UV Index. This can be seen in Table 4-8.
Table 4-8 National Weather Service Heat Risk Categories
Category Level Meaning
Green 0 No Elevated Risk
Yellow 1 Low Risk for those extremely sensitive to heat, especially those without effective cooling
and/or adequate hydration
Orange 2 Moderate Risk for those who are sensitive to heat, especially those without effective
cooling and/or adequate hydration
Red 3 High Risk for much of the population, especially those who are heat sensitive and those
without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration
Magenta 4 Very High Risk for entire population due to long duration heat, with little to no relief
overnight
Source: National Weather Service
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The NWS office in Oxnard can issue the following heat-related advisory as conditions warrant.
➢ Heat Advisories are issued during events where the HeatRisk is on the Orange/Red threshold (Orange
will not always trigger an advisory)
➢ Excessive Heat Watches/Warnings are issued during events where the HeatRisk is in the
Red/Magenta output
The City’s focus is on the prevention of heat-related illnesses or deaths for its residents, visitors, or business
employees from extreme heat events. The City is proactive to ensure notification through multiple
platforms about the upcoming extreme heat events, where cooling centers are located and their hours of
operation, and providing safety tips to practice during the event.
Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
According to Table 4-3, there have been no federal or state disaster declarations due to extreme heat.
NCDC Events
The NCDC database reported 20 extreme heat events for the County since 1993. These 20 events occurred
on 8 dates. These are shown on Table 4-9. It should be noted that heat events in California often are
unreported to the NCDC database. Events with damages, injuries, or deaths are discussed below the table.
Table 4-9 NCDC Extreme Heat Events in Los Angeles County 1993 to 12/31/2016
Date Event Type Deaths
Direct
Injuries
Direct
Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
Injuries
Indirect
Deaths
(Indirect
8/3/1997 Heat 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
8/3/1997 Heat 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
8/3/1997 Heat 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
7/15/2006 Heat 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
7/15/2006 Heat 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
7/15/2006 Heat 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
7/22/2006 Heat 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
7/22/2006 Heat 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
7/22/2006 Heat 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
7/22/2006 Heat 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
8/30/2007 Excessive
Heat
0 0 $0 $0 0 0
8/30/2007 Excessive
Heat
0 0 $0 $0 0 0
8/30/2007 Excessive
Heat
0 0 $0 $0 0 0
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Date Event Type Deaths
Direct
Injuries
Direct
Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
Injuries
Indirect
Deaths
(Indirect
9/1/2007 Excessive
Heat
0 0 $0 $0 0 0
9/1/2007 Excessive
Heat
0 0 $0 $0 0 0
9/1/2007 Excessive
Heat
0 0 $0 $0 0 0
9/3/2007 Excessive
Heat
8 0 $0 $0 0 0
6/20/2008 Excessive
Heat
0 0 $0 $0 0 0
6/21/2008 Excessive
Heat
0 0 $0 $0 0 0
6/21/2008 Excessive
Heat
0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Totals 8 0 $0 $0 0 0
Source: NCDC
➢ August 3, 2007 – The heat wave which started at the end of August continued into the first few days
of September. The combination of above normal temperatures and relative humidity continued to
produce excessive heat conditions across sections of Southern California. Heat index values between
105 and 112 degrees were reported. At the end of the heat wave, 8 heat-related deaths were reported
across Los Angeles County.
HMPC Events
The City noted that the greatest heat related concern is that associated with the elderly and sick, especially
those low-income households that generally can’t afford air conditioning. The City indicated that cooling
centers are opened and used every year. These centers provided in areas like the library and senior center
also have transportation available as needed through a Dial-a-Ride service.
When heat advisories are issued through the NWS, the City puts notifications out for these vulnerable
populations which in addition to the elderly include other populations such as the horseback riding
community, where horses and other livestock are also vulnerable to extreme heat conditions.
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Highly Likely—Data from the Western Regional Climate Center (shown in Table 4-7) indicates that high
temperatures will continue to occur in the City on an annual basis; thus the likelihood of future occurrence
is highly likely.
Climate Change and Extreme Heat
The 2014 Climate Adaptation Study (CAS), citing a California Energy Commission study, states that “over
the past 15 years, heat waves have claimed more lives in California than all other declared disaster events
combined.” This study shows that California is getting warmer, leading to an increased frequency,
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magnitude, and duration of heat waves. These factors may lead to increased mortality from excessive heat,
as shown in Figure 4-2.
Figure 4-2 California Historical and Projected Temperature Increases - 1961 to 2099
Source: Dan Cayan; California Climate Adaptation Strategy
Per the CAS report and the 2013 State of California Hazard Mitigation Plan, by 2100, hotter temperatures
are expected throughout the state, with projected increases of 3-5.5°F (under a lower emissions scenario)
to 8-10.5°F (under a higher emissions scenario). As temperatures increase, California, Los Angeles County,
and the City of Azusa will face increased risk of death from dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heart
attack, stroke and respiratory distress caused by extreme heat. If temperatures rise to the higher warming
range, there could be 100 more days per year with temperatures above 95°F in the City (see Figure 4-3).
These changes could lead to an increase in deaths related to extreme heat in Azusa.
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Figure 4-3 Increase in Heat in Major California Cities from 2070 to 2099
Source: 2010 California State Hazard Mitigation Plan
Cal Adapt noted that overall temperatures are expected to rise substantially throughout this centur y. For
the south coast region, which includes Azusa, the following is predicted (emphasis added):
➢ January increase in average temperatures: 1°F to 2.5°F by 2050 and 5°F to 6°F by 2100
➢ July increase in average temperatures: 3°F to 4°F by 2050 and 5°F to 10°F by 2100 with larger increases
projected inland, which is where Azusa is located. (Modeled high temperatures; high carbon emissions
scenario)
The projected temperature increases begin to diverge at mid-century so that, by the end of the century, the
temperature increases projected in the higher emissions scenario (A2) are much higher than those projected
in the lower emissions scenario (B1).
These projections also differ depending on the time of year and the type of measurement (highs vs. lows),
all of which have different potential effects to the state's ecosystem health, agricultural production, water
use and availability, and energy demand. Future temperature estimates from Cal-Adapt are shown in Figure
4-4.
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Figure 4-4 City of Azusa – Future Temperature Estimates in High and Low Emission
Scenarios
Source: Cal-Adapt – Temperature: Decadal Averages Map
4.2.3. Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
According to the NWS Office in Oxnard, storms in Los Angeles County and the City of Azusa and are
generally characterized by heavy rain often accompanied by strong winds and occasionally lightning.
Approximately 10 percent of the thunderstorms that occur each year in the United States are classified as
severe. A thunderstorm is classified as severe when it contains one or more of the following phenomena:
hail that is one inch or greater, winds in excess of 50 knots (57.5 mph), or a tornado. Heavy precipitation
in the City area falls mainly in the fall, winter, and spring months.
Heavy Rain and Storms
Heavy rains and storms result from the rapid upward movement of warm, moist air. They can occur inside
warm, moist air masses and at fronts. As the warm, moist air moves upward, its cools, condenses, and
forms cumulonimbus clouds that can reach heights of greater than 35,000 ft. As the rising air reaches its
dew point, water droplets and ice form and begin falling the long distance through the clouds towards earth's
surface. As the droplets fall, they collide with other droplets and become larger. The falling droplets create
a downdraft of air that spreads out at Earth's surface and causes strong winds associated with these severe
storms.
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Location
Heavy rain events occur on a regional basis. Rains and storms can occur in any location of the County. All
portions of the County are at risk to heavy rains. Most of these rains occur during the winter months, as
discussed below.
Extent
There is no scale by which heavy rains are measured – usually it is measured in terms of rainfall amounts.
Magnitude of storms is measured often in rainfall and damages. The speed of onset of heavy rains can be
short, but accurate weather prediction mechanisms often let the public know of upcoming events. Duration
of thunderstorms in California is often short, ranging from minutes to hours. Information from the San
Gabriel Canyon Station regarding rainfall and precipitation is summarized below.
San Gabriel Canyon Weather Station, Period of Record 1894 to 2016
Average annual precipitation at the San Gabriel Canyon Station is 22.28 inches per year. The highest
recorded annual precipitation is 49.39 inches in 1978; the highest for a 24-hour period is 8.25 inches on
December 31, 1933. The lowest recorded annual precipitation was 6.19 inches in 1947. Average monthly
precipitation totals for this station are shown in Figure 4-5. Precipitation extremes for this station are shown
in Figure 4-6.
Figure 4-5 Monthly Average Total Precipitation – San Gabriel Canyon Station
Source: Western Regional Climate Center
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Figure 4-6 Daily Precipitation Average and Extremes – San Gabriel Canyon Station
Source: Western Regional Climate Center
The NOAA Storm Prediction Center tracks thunderstorm watches on a county basis. Figure 4-7 shows
thunderstorm watches in and around the City and the United States for a 20-year period between 1993 and
2012.
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Figure 4-7 Azusa – Average Thunderstorm Watches per Year (1993 to 2012)
Source: NOAA Storm Prediction Center
Hail
According to the NWS, hail is formed when water droplets freeze and thaw as they are thrown high into
the upper atmosphere by the violent internal forces of thunderst orms. Hail is sometimes associated with
severe storms within the City, though it is rare. Hailstones are usually less than two inches in diameter and
can fall at speeds of 120 miles per hour (mph). Severe hailstorms can be quite destructive, causing damage
to roofs, buildings, automobiles, vegetation, and crops. The National Weather Service classifies hail by
diameter size, and corresponding everyday objects to help relay scope and severity to the population. Table
4-10 indicates the hailstone measurements utilized by the National Weather Service.
Table 4-10 Hailstone Measurements
Average Diameter Household Object Average Diameter Household Object
.25 inch Pea 2.0 inch Hen Egg
.5 inch Marble/Mothball 2.5 inch Tennis Ball
.75 inch Dime/Penny 2.75 inch Baseball
.875 inch Nickel 3.00 inch Teacup
1.0 inch Quarter 4.00 inch Grapefruit
1.5 inch Ping-pong ball 4.5 inch Softball
1.75 inch Golf-Ball
Source: National Weather Service
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Location
Hail events can occur in any location of the City. All portions of the City are at risk to hail. Hail tends to
be rare in the City, as discussed in the extent section below.
Extent
Hail tends to be rare in California. There is no scale in which to measure hail, other than hail stone size as
detailed above. The speed of onset of hail can be short, but accurate weather prediction mechanisms often
let the public know of upcoming events. Duration of thunderstorms that can cause hail in California is
often short, ranging from minutes to hours. Hail events last shorter than the duration of the total
thunderstorm. The National Weather Service tracks hail events. Figure 4-8 shows the average days each
year where hail of greater than 1" in diameter occurred during a 20-year period from 1990 to 2009.
Figure 4-8 Azusa – Average Hail Days per Year (1990 to 2009)
Source: National Weather Service
Lightning
Lightning is defined by the NWS as any and all of the various forms of visible electrical discharge caused
by thunderstorms. Thunderstorms and lightning are usually (but not always) accompanied by rain. Cloud-
to-ground lightning can kill or injure people by direct or indirect means. Objects can be struck directly,
which may result in an explosion, burn, or total destruction. Or, damage may be indirect, when the current
passes through or near an object, which generally results in less damage.
Intra-cloud lightning is the most common type of discharge. This occurs between oppositely charged
centers within the same cloud. Usually it takes place inside the cloud and looks from the outside of the
cloud like a diffuse brightening that flickers. However, the flash may exit the boundary of the cloud, and a
bright channel, similar to a cloud-to-ground flash, can be visible for many miles. Cloud-to-ground lightning
is the most damaging and dangerous type of lightning, though it is also less common. Most flashes originate
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near the lower-negative charge center and deliver negative charge to earth. However, a large minority of
flashes carry positive charge to earth. These positive flashes often occur during the dissipating stage of a
thunderstorm's life. Positive flashes are also more common as a percentage of total ground strikes during
the winter months. This type of lightning is particularly dangerous for several reasons. It frequently strikes
away from the rain core, either ahead or behind the thunderstorm. It can strike as far as 5 or 10 miles from
the storm in areas that most people do not consider to be a threat. Positive lightning also has a longer
duration, so fires are more easily ignited. And, when positive lightning strikes, it usually carries a high
peak electrical current, potentially resulting in greater damage. Heavy rains and severe storms occur in the
City primarily during the late fall, winter, and spring (i.e., November through April). Lightning can
accompany these storms, but tends to be rare.
Location
Lightning events can occur in any location of the City and are often associated with thunderstorms. All
portions of the City are at risk to lightning. Lightning tends to be rare in the City, as discussed in the extent
section below.
Extent
Lightning in the City can occur during storms. The speed of onset of thunderstorms that can cause lightning
can be short, but accurate weather prediction mechanisms often let the public know of upcoming events.
Duration of thunderstorms in California is often short, ranging from minutes to hours. Thunderstorms and
lightning are rare in the County. Vaisala maintains the National Lightning Detection Network. It tracks
cloud to ground lightning incidences in the United States. Figure 4-9 shows lightning incidences in the
City and the rest of the United States from 1997 to 2012.
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Figure 4-9 Azusa – Lightning Incidence Map 1997 to 2012
Source: Vaisala National Lightning Detection Network
Hurricane Winds and Rains
Although the risk of a land-falling tropical cyclone (TC) is very low for southern California, there is a
history of a tropical storm (sustained winds at or above 39 mph and less than 73 mph) hitting California
near Long Beach on September 25, 1939 (see Figure 4-10). There was widespread heavy rainfall reported
across the Los Angeles metro area with 4.83 inches in Pasadena and 11.60 inches a t Mt. Wilson. Slowly
rising ocean temperatures due to climate change and warmer than normal ocean water associated with
strong El Nino events could support additional TC’s reaching the southern California coast in the future,
with the highest probability of occurrence during the fall months. The largest impacts for this region of the
country from a TC would be strong and damaging winds, coastal erosion, and inland flooding. The City of
Azusa would likely see very heavy rainfall and flash flooding, along with the potential for significant debris
flows from any recent nearby burn area.
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Figure 4-10 1939 Tropical Storm
Source: National Weather Service
Location
The entire City is subject hurricane winds. Each area of the City is at risk to high winds.
Extent
Magnitude of winds is measured often in speed and damages. These events are usually part of a heavy rain
and storm event. This is discussed in more detail in the high winds and tornadoes hazard profile in Section
4.2.4 below.
Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
A search of FEMA and Cal OES disaster declarations turned up multiple events. These events are captured
in Table 4-11. It should be noted that these disaster declarations are for the County, and may or may not
have affected the City of Azusa.
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Table 4-11 Los Angeles County Severe Storms Disaster Declarations 1950-2017
Disaster Type Federal Declarations State Declarations
Count Years Count Years
Severe Storms 6 1995 (twice), 1998, 2005 (twice),
2010
7 1964, 1995 (twice), 1998, 2005
(twice), 2010
Totals 6 – 7 –
Source: Cal OES, FEMA
NCDC Events
The NCDC data recorded 149 hail, heavy rain, lightning, winter storm, and winter weather events for Los
Angeles County since 1950. Only some of these events have mapped coordinates, which are shown on
Figure 4-11. A summary of these events is shown in Table 4-12 Storms that were recorded to have caused
specific damages in the City are discussed below the table.
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Figure 4-11 City of Azusa – Tornado Touchdowns and Wind Events
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Table 4-12 NCDC Severe Weather Events in Los Angeles County 1950 to 12/31/2016
Event Type Number
of Events
Deaths Injuries Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
Deaths
(indirect)
Injuries
(indirect)
Hail 24 0 0 $3,500,000 $0 0 0
Heavy Rain 13 0 4 $5,000,000 $0 0 0
Heavy Snow 26 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Lightning 9 2 13 $0 $0 0 0
Winter Storm 59 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Winter Weather 18 3 0 $0 $0 0 0
Total 149 5 17 $8,500,000 $0 0 0
Source: NCDC
November 27, 1997 – A strong Pacific storm brought heavy rain, thunderstorms, and snow to Southern
California. With this storm, snow levels dropped to around 5000 feet. Snow accumulations up to 6 inches
were reported in the mountains. At lower elevations, heavy rain and small hail fell. Rainfall totals ranged
from 0.50 to 1.50 inches across the coast up to 4.00 inches in the mountains. The heavy rain produced
numerous street flooding.
January 7, 2005 – A powerful Pacific storm brought heavy rain, snow, flash flooding, high winds and
landslides to Central and Southern California. During the 5-day event, rainfall totals ranged from 3 to 10
inches over coastal areas with up to 32 inches in the mountains. With such copious rainfall, flash flooding
was a serious problem across Los Angeles County. Across Los Angeles County, flash flooding killed a
homeless man in Elysian Park, flooded a mobile home park in Santa Clarita, closed Highway 1 and caused
numerous problems in Palmdale. In the mountains, 4 to 12 feet of snowfall was recorded along with
southeast winds between 30 and 50 MPH with higher gusts. Overall, damage estimates for the entire series
of storms that started December 27th, 2004 and ended on January 11th, 2005 were easily over $5 million
in Los Angeles County.
HMPC Events
According to the HMPC, short-term, heavy storms can cause flooding as well as localized drainage issues.
With the increased growth of the area, adequate drainage systems has become an increasingly important
issue. In addition to the flooding that often occurs during these storms, strong winds, when combined with
saturated ground conditions, can down very mature trees and cause localized slides on sloped areas,
especially when post-fire burn areas are involved. The HMPC noted that hail and lightning are rare.
The HMPC noted that the City sees heavy rains on an annual basis. In 2017, severe rains caused localized
flooding and mud and debris flows on Encanto Parkway. More information on this event can be found in
the past occurrences in Section 4.2.11.
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Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Highly Likely –– 149 events were recorded in the County since 1950. The NCDC database doesn’t report
all heavy rain, hail, and lightning events. Severe weather is a well-documented seasonal occurrence that
will continue to occur annually in Azusa.
Climate Change and Heavy Rains and Storms
Per the CAS, while average annual rainfall may increase or decrease slightly, the intensity of individual
rainfall events is likely to increase during the 21st century. It is unlikely that hail will become more common
in the County. The amount of lightning is not projected to change.
Cal-Adapt noted that, on average, the projections show little change in total annual precipitation in
California. Furthermore, among several models, precipitation projections do not show a consistent trend
during the next century. The Mediterranean seasonal precipitation pattern is expected to continue, with
most precipitation falling during winter from North Pacific storms. One of the four climate models projects
slightly wetter winters, and another projects slightly drier winters with a 10 to 20 percent decrease in total
annual precipitation. However, even modest changes would have a significant impact because California
ecosystems are conditioned to historical precipitation levels and water resources are nearly fully utilized.
Future precipitation estimates for the City are shown in Figure 4-12.
Figure 4-12 City of Azusa – Future Precipitation Estimates: High and Low Emission
Scenarios
Source: Cal-Adapt – Precipitation: Decadal Averages Map
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4.2.4. Severe Weather: High Winds and Tornadoes
Hazard/Problem Description
High Winds
High winds, including those accompanying severe thunderstorms, can cause property damage, threaten
public safety, and have adverse economic impacts from business closures and power loss.
The City is subject to significant, non-tornadic (straight-line), winds, and strong downslope north wind
events mainly during the winter months. Azusa is fairly protected from classic Santa Ana winds in southern
California, but occasionally strong low-pressure systems across eastern California and Arizona can result
in damaging downslope winds from the north. High winds, as defined by the NWS glossary, are sustained
wind speeds of 40 mph or greater lasting for 1 hour or longer, or winds of 58 mph or greater for any duration.
These winds may occur as part of a seasonal climate pattern or in relation to other severe weath er events
such as thunderstorms. Straight-line winds may also exacerbate existing weather conditions by increasing
the effect on temperature and decreasing visibility due to the movement of particulate matters through the
air, as in dust and snow storms. The winds may also exacerbate fire conditions by drying out the ground
cover, propelling fuel around the region, and increasing the ferocity of exiting fires. These winds may
damage crops, push automobiles off roads, damage roofs and structures, and cause secondary damage due
to flying debris.
Location
The entire Planning Area is subject to significant, non-tornadic (straight-line), winds. Each area of the City
is at risk to high winds.
Extent
Magnitude of winds is measured often in speed and damages. These events are usually part of a heavy rain
and storm event. The speed of onset of thunderstorms can be short, but accurate weather prediction
mechanisms often let the public know of upcoming events. Duration of thunderstorm winds in California
is often short, ranging from minutes to hours. The Beaufort scale is an empirical measure that relates wind
speed to observed conditions at sea or on land. Its full name is the Beaufort wind force scale. Figure 4-13
shows the Beaufort wind scale.
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Figure 4-13 Beaufort Wind Scale
Source: National Weather Service
Figure 4-14 depicts wind zones for the United States. The map denotes that Azusa falls into Zone I, which
is characterized by high winds of up to 130 mph. The City also borders a special wind region, due to the
strong downslope north winds that may occur in the area near the San Gabriel Mountains.
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Figure 4-14 Wind Zones in the United States
Source: FEMA
Heavy rains and severe storms occur in the City primarily during the late fall, winter, and spring (i.e.,
November through April). Damaging winds often accompany winter storm systems moving through the
area.
Tornadoes
Tornadoes and funnel clouds can also occur during these types of storms. Tornadoes are another severe
weather hazard that can affect the Los Angeles County Planning Area, primarily during the rainy season in
the late fall and early spring. Tornadoes are very rare in the City as well as in Los Angeles County.
Tornadoes form when cool, dry air sits on top of warm, moist air. Tornadoes are rotating columns of air
marked by a funnel-shaped downward extension of a cumulonimbus cloud whirling at destructive speeds
of up to 300 mph, usually accompanying a thunderstorm. Tornadoes are the most powerful storms that
exist. They can have the same pressure differential across a path only 300 yards wide or less as 300 -mile-
wide hurricanes. Figure 4-15 illustrates the potential impact and damage from a tornado.
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Figure 4-15 Potential Impact and Damage from a Tornado
Source: FEMA: Building Performance Assessment: Oklahoma and Kansas Tornadoes
Location
Tornadoes, while rare, can occur at any location in the City. All areas of the City are at risk to tornadoes.
Extent
Prior to February 1, 2007, tornado intensity was measured by the Fujita (F) scale. This scale was revised
and is now the Enhanced Fujita scale. Both scales are sets of wind estimates (not measurements) based on
damage. The new scale provides more damage indicators (28) and associated degrees of damage, allowing
for more detailed analysis and better correlation between damage and wind speed. It is also more precise
because it takes into account the materials affected and the construction of structures damaged by a tornado.
Table 4-13 shows the wind speeds associated with the original Fujita scale ratings and the damage that
could result at different levels of intensity. Table 4-14 shows the wind speeds associated with the Enhanced
Fujita Scale ratings.
Table 4-13 Original Fujita Scale
Fujita (F)
Scale
Fujita Scale Wind
Estimate (mph)
Typical Damage
F0 < 73 Light damage. Some damage to chimneys; branches broken off trees; shallow-
rooted trees pushed over; sign boards damaged.
F1 73-112 Moderate damage. Peels surface off roofs; mobile homes pushed off foundations
or overturned; moving autos blown off roads.
F2 113-157 Considerable damage. Roofs torn off frame houses; mobile homes demolished;
boxcars overturned; large trees snapped or uprooted; light-object missiles
generated; cars lifted off ground.
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Fujita (F)
Scale
Fujita Scale Wind
Estimate (mph)
Typical Damage
F3 158-206 Severe damage. Roofs and some walls torn off well-constructed houses; trains
overturned; most trees in forest uprooted; heavy cars lifted off the ground and
thrown.
F4 207-260 Devastating damage. Well-constructed houses leveled; structures with weak
foundations blown away some distance; cars thrown and large missiles generated.
F5 261-318 Incredible damage. Strong frame houses leveled off foundations and swept away;
automobile-sized missiles fly through the air in excess of 100 meters (109 yards);
trees debarked; incredible phenomena will occur.
Source: NOAA Storm Prediction Center, www.spc.noaa.gov/faq/tornado/f-scale.html
Table 4-14 Enhanced Fujita Scale
Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale Enhanced Fujita Scale Wind Estimate (mph)
EF0 65-85
EF1 86-110
EF2 111-135
EF3 136-165
EF4 166-200
EF5 Over 200
Source: NOAA Storm Prediction Center, www.spc.noaa.gov/faq/tornado/ef-scale.html
Though rare in the City, tornadoes can cause damage to property and loss of life. While most tornado
damage is caused by violent winds, the majority of injuries and deaths generally result from flying debris.
Property damage can include damage to buildings, fallen trees and power lines, broken gas lines, broken
sewer and water mains, and the outbreak of fires. Commercial industries may also be damaged or destroyed.
Access roads and streets may be blocked by debris, delaying necessary emergency response.
Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
A search of FEMA and state disaster declarations turned up one event for high winds. This event is captured
in Table 4-15. It should be noted that these disaster declarations are for the County, and may or may not
have affected the City of Azusa.
Table 4-15 Los Angeles County High Wind Disaster Declarations for 1950-2017
Disaster Type Federal Declarations State Declarations
Count Years Count Years
High Winds 0 – 1 1983
Totals 0 – 1 –
Source: Cal OES, FEMA
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NCDC Events
The NCDC data recorded 438 wind related incidents for Los Angeles County since 1950. A summary of
these events is shown in Table 4-16. The NCDC database shows no damages, injuries, or deaths in the City
of Azusa associated with these events.
Table 4-16 NCDC High Wind Events in Los Angeles County 1950 to 12/31/2016
Event Type Number
of Events
Deaths Injuries Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
Deaths
(indirect)
Injuries
(indirect)
Dust Devil 3 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Dust Storm 1 0 1 $0 $0 0 0
Funnel Cloud 9 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
High Wind 319 0 1 $0 $0 0 0
Strong Wind 3 2 1 $0 $0 0 1
Thunderstorm Winds 59 0 10 $55,000 $0 0 0
Tornado 44 0 45 $61,195,310 $0 0 0
Total 438 2 58 $61,250,310 $0 0 1
Source: NCDC
HMPC Events
The HMPC noted that wind events occur each year. The HMPC could not recall wind or tornado events
that caused damages or injuries in the City.
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Highly Likely –– 438 wind events were recorded in the County since 1950. The NCDC database doesn’t
report all wind and tornado events. High winds are a well-documented seasonal occurrence that will
continue to occur annually in Azusa. Tornadoes remain unlikely.
Climate Change and High Winds/Tornadoes
According to the 2014 CAS, while average annual rainfall may increase or decrease slightly, the intensity
of individual events is likely to increase during the 21st century. This may bring stronger wind events. The
number of tornadoes is not projected to change.
4.2.5. Climate Change Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
Climate change is the distinct change in measures of weather patterns over a long period of time, ranging
from decades to millions of years. More specifically, it may be a change in average weather conditions
such as temperature, rainfall, snow, ocean and atmospheric circulation, or in the distribution of weather
around the average. While the Earth’s climate has cycled over its 4.5-billion-year age, these natural cycles
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have taken place gradually over millennia, and the Holocene, the most recent epoch in which human
civilization developed, has been characterized by a highly stable climate – until recently.
Through changes to oceanic and atmospheric circulation cycles and increasing heat, climate change affects
weather systems around the world. Climate change increases the likelihood and exacerbates the severity
of extreme weather – more frequent or intense storms, floods, droughts, and heat waves. Consequences for
human society include loss of life and injury, damaged infrastructure, lo ng-term health effects, loss of
agricultural crops, disrupted transport and freight, and more. Climate change is not a discrete event but a
long-term hazard, the effects of which communities are already experiencing.
This LHMP is concerned with human-induced climate change that has been rapidly warming the Earth at
rates unprecedented in the last 1,000 years. Since industrialization began in the 19th century, the burning
of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) at escalating quantities has released vast amounts of carbon dioxide
and other greenhouse gases responsible for trapping heat in the atmosphere, increasing the average
temperature of the Earth. Secondary impacts include changes in precipitation patterns, the global water
cycle, melting glaciers and ice caps, and rising sea levels. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on
Climate Change (IPCC), climate change will “increase the likelihood of severe, pervasive and irreversible
impacts for people and ecosystems” if unchecked.
Through changes to oceanic and atmospheric circulation cycles and increasing heat, climate change affects
weather systems around the world. Climate change increases the likelihood and exacerbates the severity
of extreme weather – more frequent or intense storms, floods, droughts, and heat waves. Consequences for
human society include loss of life and injury, damaged infrastructure, long-term health effects, loss of
agricultural crops, disrupted transport and freight, and more.
Climate change adaptation is a key priority of the State of California. The 2013 State of California Multi-
Hazard Mitigation Plan stated that climate change is already affecting California. Sea levels have risen by
as much as seven inches along the California coast over the last century, increasing erosion and pressure
on the state’s infrastructure, water supplies, and natural resources. The State has also seen increased
average temperatures, more extreme hot days, fewer cold nights, a lengthening of the growing season, shifts
in the water cycle with less winter precipitation falling as snow, and earlier runoff of both snowmelt and
rainwater in the year. In addition to changes in average temperatures, sea level, and precipitation patterns,
the intensity of extreme weather events is also changing. Data suggests that the effects of climate change
have already been felt in the area around Azusa.
Location
Climate change is a global phenomenon. It is expected to affect the whole of the City.
Extent
There is no scale to measure the extent of climate change. Climate change exac erbates other hazard, such
as drought, extreme heat, flooding, wildfire, and others. The speed of onset of climate change is very slow.
The duration of climate change is not yet known, but is feared to be tens to hundreds of years.
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Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
Climate change has never been directly linked for any declared disasters, as shown in Table 4-3.
NCDC Events
The NCDC does not track climate change events.
HMPC Events
Past flooding, wildfire, levee failure, and drought disasters may have been exacerbated by climate change,
but it is impossible to make direct connections to individual events. Unlike earthquake and floods that
occur over a finite time period, climate change is a slow onset, long term hazard, the effects of which some
communities may already be already experiencing, but for which little empirical data exists. Further, given
the science, it is likely that measurable effects may not be seriously experienced for years, decades, or may
be avoided altogether by mitigation actions taken today.
The City noted that it seems that the summers have been getting hotter; cooling centers are being opened
more frequently.
The Planning Team noted the following on climate change events in the City:
➢ When it rains, the data shows that storms are more intense
➢ Droughts seem more intense, extended
➢ Because of trend with increased temperatures – longer droughts, increased heat contributes to wildfire
conditions
➢ It is a slow moving disaster
Likelihood of Future Occurrences
Highly Likely – Climate change is virtually certain to continue without immediate and effective global
action. According to NASA, 15 of the 17 hottest years ever have occurred since 2000. Without significant
global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the IPCC concludes in its Fifth Assessment Synthesis
Report (2014) that average global temperatures are likely to exceed 1.5 C by the end of the 21st century,
with consequences for people, assets, economies and ecosystems, including risks from heat stress, storms
and extreme precipitation, inland and coastal flooding, landslides, air pollution, drought, water scarcity, sea
level rise and storm surges.
The 2014 CAS noted that the City of Azusa will have to comply with recent and anticipated state and federal
regulations on reducing GHG emissions, such as California’s landmark AB32 and SB375 legislation. At
present, local governments in California are being asked to reduce GHG emissions 15% from current levels
by 2020, with an ultimate state-wide goal of 80% reductions by 2050, which scientists have determined to
be the amount necessary to arrest the effects of global warming.
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Climate Scenarios
The United Nations IPCC developed several GHG emissions scenarios based on differing sets of
assumptions about future economic growth, population growth, fossil fuel use, and other factors. The
emissions scenarios range from “business-as-usual” (i.e., minimal change in the current emissions trends)
to more progressive (i.e., international leaders implement aggressive emissions reductions policies). Each
of these scenarios leads to a corresponding GHG concentration, which is then used in climate models to
examine how the climate may react to varying levels of GHGs. Climate researchers use many global climate
models to assess the potential changes in climate due to increased GHGs.
Key Uncertainties Associated with Climate Projections
➢ Climate projections and impacts, like other types of research about future conditions, are characterized
by uncertainty. Climate projection uncertainties include but are not limited to:
✓ Levels of future greenhouse gas concentrations and other radiatively important gases and aerosols,
✓ Sensitivity of the climate system to greenhouse gas concentrations and other radiatively important
gases and aerosols,
✓ Inherent climate variability, and
✓ Changes in local physical processes (such as afternoon sea breezes) that are not captured by global
climate models.
Even though precise quantitative climate projections at the local scale are characterized by uncertai nties,
the information provided can help identify the potential risks associated with climate variability/climate
change and support long term mitigation and adaptation planning.
Maps show projected change in average surface air temperature in the later part of this century (2071-2099)
relative to the later part of the last century (1970-1999) under a scenario that assumes substantial reductions
in heat trapping gases and a higher emissions scenario that assumes continued increases in global emissions.
These are shown in Figure 4-16.
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Figure 4-16 Projected Temperature Change – Lower and Higher Emissions Scenario
Source: National Climate Assessment
According to the California Natural Resource Agency (CNRA), climate change is already affecting
California and is projected to continue to do so well into the foreseeable future. Current and projected
changes include increased temperatures, seal level rise, a reduced winter snowpack altered precipitation
patterns, and more frequent storm events. Over the long term, reducing greenhouse gases can help make
these changes less severe, but the changes cannot be avoided entirely. Unavoidable climate impacts can
result in a variety of secondary consequences including detrimental impacts on human health and safety,
economic continuity, ecosystem integrity and provision of basic services.
The 2014 CAS delineated how climate change may impact and exacerbate natural hazards in the future,
including wildfires, extreme heat, floods, drought, and levee failure:
➢ Climate change is expected to lead to increases in the frequency, intensity, and duration of extreme heat
events and heat waves in Azusa and the rest of California, which are likely to increase the risk of
mortality and morbidity due to heat-related illness and exacerbation of existing chronic health
conditions. Those most at risk and vulnerable to climate-related illness are the elderly, individuals with
chronic conditions such as heart and lung disease, diabetes, and mental illnesses, infants, the socially
or economically disadvantaged, and those who work outdoors.
➢ Higher temperatures will melt the Sierra snowpack earlier and drive the snowline higher, resulting in
less snowpack to supply water to California users.
➢ Droughts are likely to become more frequent and persistent in the 21st century.
➢ Intense rainfall events, periodically ones with larger than historical runoff, will continue to affect
California with more frequent and/or more extensive flooding.
➢ Storms and snowmelt may coincide and produce higher winter runoff from the landward side, while
accelerating sea-level rise will produce higher storm surges during coastal storms. Together, these
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changes may increase the probability of floods and levee and dam failures, along with creating issues
related to salt water intrusion.
➢ Warmer weather, reduced snowpack, and earlier snowmelt can be expected to increase wildfire through
fuel hazards and ignition risks. These changes can also increase plant moisture stress and insect
populations, both of which affect forest health and reduce forest resilience to wildfires. An increase in
wildfire intensity and extent will increase public safety risks, property damage, fire suppression and
emergency response costs to government, watershed and water quality impacts, vegetation conversions
and habitat fragmentation.
➢ Sea-level rise will increase erosion, threatening public and private property and structures and causing
social, economic, and resource losses.
4.2.6. Dam Failure Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
According to the California Division of Safety of Dams, dams are manmade structures built for a variety
of uses including flood protection, power generation, agriculture, water supply, and recreation. When dams
are constructed for flood protection, they are usually engineered to withstand a flood with a computed risk
of occurrence. For example, a dam may be designed to contain a flood at a location on a stream that has a
certain probability of occurring in any one year. If prolonged periods of rainfall and flooding occur that
exceed the design requirements, that structure may be overtopped and fail. Over topping is the primary
cause of earthen dam failure in the United States.
Dam failures can also result from any one or a combination of the following causes:
➢ Earthquake;
➢ Inadequate spillway capacity resulting in excess overtopping flows;
➢ Internal erosion caused by embankment or foundation leakage, or piping or rodent activity;
➢ Improper design;
➢ Improper maintenance;
➢ Negligent operation; and/or
➢ Failure of upstream dams on the same waterway.
Water released by a failed dam generates tremendous energy and can cause a flood that is catastrophic to
life and property. A catastrophic dam failure could challenge local response capabilities and require
evacuations to save lives. Impacts to life safety will depend on the warning time and the resources available
to notify and evacuate the public. Major loss of life could result as well as potentially catastrophic effects
to roads, bridges, and homes. Electric generating facilities and transmission lines could also be damaged
and affect life support systems in communities outside the immediate hazard area. Associated water supply,
water quality and health concerns could also be an issue. Factors that influence the potential severity of a
full or partial dam failure are the amount of water impounded; the density, type, and value of development
and infrastructure located downstream; and the speed of failure.
In general, there are three types of dams: concrete arch or hydraulic fill ; earth and rockfill; and concrete
gravity. Each type of dam has different failure characteristics. A concrete arch or hydraulic fill dam can
fail suddenly; the flood wave builds up rapidly to a peak then gradually declines. An earth fill or rockfill
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dam gradually fails due to erosion of the breach; a flood wave will build gradually to a peak and then decline
until the reservoir is empty. A concrete gravity dam can fail suddenly or gradually with a corresponding
buildup and decline of the flood wave.
Dams and reservoirs have been built throughout California to supply water for agriculture and domestic
use, to allow for flood control, as a source of hydroelectric power, and to serve as recreational facilities.
The storage capacities of these reservoirs range from a less than a hundred acre feet to 4.5 million acre-feet.
The water from these reservoirs eventually makes its way to the Pacific Ocean by way of several river
systems.
The California Department of Water Resources (Cal DWR) Division of Safety of Dams has jurisdiction
over impoundments that meet certain capacity and height criteria. Embankments that are less than six feet
high and impoundments that can store less than 15 acre-feet are non-jurisdictional. Additionally, dams that
are less than 25 feet high can impound up to 50 acre-feet without being jurisdictional. Cal DWR Division
of Safety of Dams assigns hazard ratings to large dams within the State. The following two factors are
considered when assigning hazard ratings: existing land use and land use controls (zoning) downstream of
the dam. Dams are classified in three categories that identify the potential hazard to life and property:
➢ High hazard indicates that a failure would most probably result in the loss of life
➢ Significant hazard indicates that a failure could result in appreciable property damage
➢ Low hazard indicates that failure would result in only minimal property damage and loss of life is
unlikely
Location
The City could be subject to inundation from multiple dams. The Cogswell Dam is located upstream of San
Gabriel Dam on the West Fork of the San Gabriel River in the Angeles National Forest. Cogswell Dam is
a rockfill dam with a total reservoir capacity of 11,136 acre -feet. Cogswell Dam is owned, operated, and
maintained by the Los Angeles County Flood Control District. Morris Dam is located downstream of San
Gabriel Dam on the San Gabriel River in the Angeles National Forest. Morris Dam is a concrete gravity
dam owned, operated, and maintained by the Los Angeles County Flood Control District. A failure of San
Gabriel Dam could potentially result in the overtopping and ultimate failure of Morris Dam. In normal
operations, releases from San Gabriel Dam would be intercepted by Morris Dam immediately downstream.
In the event of a combined failure of San Gabriel and Morris Dam, portions of the Cities of Azusa, Duarte,
Irwindale, and Baldwin Park could potentially be inundated. In this scenario, the downstream Santa Fe Dam
and Flood Control Basin in Irwindale would ultimately intercept a large percentage of flood flows.
The City is also at risk from a Big Dalton Dam failure. Table 4-17 identifies these four dams of concern in
the vicinity of the City of Azusa. This can be seen on Figure 4-17.
Table 4-17 City of Azusa – Dams of Concern Inventory
Name
Federal
Hazard
Classification River
Year
Completed Dam
Type
Structural
Height of
Dam (ft)
Maximum
Storage of Dam
(acre-ft)*
Big Dalton Dam High Big Dalton Wash 1929 Rockfill 155 1,290
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Name
Federal
Hazard
Classification River
Year
Completed Dam
Type
Structural
Height of
Dam (ft)
Maximum
Storage of Dam
(acre-ft)*
Cogswell Dam High San Gabriel River 1935 Rockfill 270 8,969
Morris Dam High San Gabriel River 1935 Gravity 245 39,300
San Gabriel Dam High San Gabriel River 1937 Rockfill 310 53,344
Source: National Inventory of Dams and California Division of Safety of Dams
*One Acre Foot=326,000 gallons
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Figure 4-17 City of Azusa –Dams of Concern
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South of the I-210 Freeway is the Santa Fe spreading grounds. The Irwindale spreading grounds are part of
the Santa Fe Dam Flood Control Basin. In the case of dam failures from the San Gabriel or Morris Dams,
the Santa Fe Dam Control Basin, including the Irwindale spreading grounds, would detain much of the
water, protecting many cities south of Santa Fe Dam, however, much of the City of Azusa would potentially
become inundated from the overflow of the San Gabriel River. This can be seen on Figure 4-18.
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Figure 4-18 City of Azusa – Spreading Grounds
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Extent
Dam failure is a natural disaster from two perspectives. First, the inundation from released waters resulting
from dam failure is related to naturally occurring floodwaters. Second, dam failure would most probably
happen in consequence of the natural disaster triggering the event. There is no scale with which to measure
dam failure. While a dam may fill slowly with runoff from winter storms, a dam break can have a very
quick speed of onset. The duration of dam failure is not long – only as long as it takes to empty the reservoir
of water the dam held back.
Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
There have been one federal and one state disaster declaration related to dam failure in Los Angeles County.
They stem from the 1963 Baldwin Hills Dam failure. While it had disastrous affects for those downstream
in the West Los Angeles area, no damages occurred in Azusa.
Table 4-18 Los Angeles County Dam Failure Disaster Declaration History 1950 to 2017
Disaster Type Federal Declarations State Declarations
Count Years Count Years
Dam/Levee Break 1 1963 1 1963
Totals 1 – 1 –
Source: Cal OES, FEMA
NCDC Events
The NCDC does not track dam failure events.
NPDP Events
The National Performance of Dams Program (NPDP) database was searched for dam failure incidents in or
around Azusa. No dam failure incidents were found.
HMPC Events
The City Planning Team noted no events of dam failure that have affected the City. They also noted that
the dams are not maintained at capacity which mitigates the opportunity for a catastrophic dam failure.
Even with the heavy winter rains of 2017, the two dams are not over 45% c apacity; although this is also
related to the four previous years of drought.
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Unlikely – There have been no recorded events of dam failure in or around Azusa. None of the dams have
ever been at risk of failure in the past. Based on past occurrences, it is unlikely a dam failure will occur in
the future that would impact the City of Azusa.
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Climate Change and Dam Failure
According to the CAS and the HMPC, increases in both precipitation and heat causing snow melt could
increase the potential for dam failure and uncontrolled releases in Los Angeles County and the City of
Azusa.
4.2.7. Drought and Water Shortage Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
The National Drought Mitigation Center states that drought is a gradual phenomenon. Although droughts
are sometimes characterized as emergencies, they differ from typical emergency events. Most natural
disasters, such as floods or forest fires, occur relatively rapidly and afford lit tle time for preparing for
disaster response. Droughts occur slowly, over a multi-year period, and it is often not obvious or easy to
quantify when a drought begins and ends. Water districts normally require at least a 10-year planning
horizon to implement a multiagency improvement project to mitigate the effects of a drought and water
supply shortage.
Drought is a complex issue involving (see Figure 4-19) many factors—it occurs when a normal amount of
precipitation and snow is not available to satisfy an area’s usual water -consuming activities. Drought can
often be defined regionally based on its effects:
➢ Meteorological drought is usually defined by a period of below average water supply.
➢ Agricultural drought occurs when there is an inadequate water supply to meet the needs of the state’s
crops and other agricultural operations such as livestock.
➢ Hydrological drought is defined as deficiencies in surface and subsurface water supplies. It is generally
measured as streamflow, snowpack, and as lake, reservoir, and groundwater levels.
➢ Socioeconomic drought occurs when a drought impacts health, well-being, and quality of life, or when
a drought starts to have an adverse economic impact on a region.
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Figure 4-19 Causes and Impacts of Drought
Source: National Drought Mitigation Center
Location
Drought in the United States is monitored by the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS).
A major component of this portal is the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Drought Monitor concept was
developed jointly by the NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, the NDMC, and the USDA’s Joint
Agricultural Weather Facility in the late 1990s as a process that synthesizes multiple indices, outlooks and
local impacts, into an assessment that best represents current drought conditions. The final outcome of each
Drought Monitor is a consensus of federal, state, and academic scientists who are intimately familiar with
the conditions in their respective regions. A recent snapshot of the drought conditions in Azusa and
California can be found in Figure 4-20. A snapshot from 2015, 2016, and 2017 is shown in Figure 4-21.
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Figure 4-20 Drought Status in Azusa
Source: US Drought Monitor
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Figure 4-21 Previous Drought Status in Azusa
Source: US Drought Monitor
The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) says the following about drought:
One dry year does not normally constitute a drought in California. California’s extensive system of water
supply infrastructure—its reservoirs, groundwater basins, and inter-regional conveyance facilities—mitigates
the effect of short-term dry periods for most water users. Defining when a drought begins is a function of drought
impacts to water users. Hydrologic conditions constituting a drought for water users in one locati on may not
constitute a drought for water users elsewhere, or for water users having a different water supply. Individual
water suppliers may use criteria such as rainfall/runoff, amount of water in storage, or expected supply from a
water wholesaler to define their water supply conditions.
The drought issue in California is further compounded by water rights. Water is a commodity possessed
under a variety of legal doctrines. The prioritization of water rights between farming and federally protected
fish habitats in California is part of this issue.
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Extent
As shown on the previous figures, drought is tracked by the US Drought Monitor. The Drought Monitor
includes a scale to measure drought intensity:
➢ None
➢ D0 (Abnormally Dry)
➢ D1 (Moderate Drought)
➢ D2 (Severe Drought)
➢ D3 (Extreme Drought)
➢ D4 (Exceptional Drought)
Drought is not initially recognized as a problem because it normally originates in what is considered good
weather, which typically includes a dry late spring and summer in Mediterranean climates, such as in
California. It is difficult to quantitatively assess drought impacts to Azusa and Los Angeles County because
not many county-specific studies have been conducted. Some factors to consider include the impacts of
fallowed agricultural land, habitat loss and associated effects on wildlife, and the drawdown of the
groundwater table. The drawdown of the groundwater table is one factor that has been recognized to occur
during repeated dry years. Lowering of groundwater levels results in the need to deepen wells, which
subsequently lead to increased pumping costs. These costs are a major consideration for residents relying
on domestic wells and agricultural producers that irrigate with groundwater and/or use it for frost protection.
Some communities in higher elevations with shallow bedrock do not have a significant source of
groundwater.
Drought impacts are wide-reaching and may be economic, environmental, and/or societal. The most
significant impacts associated with drought in the City are those related to water intensive activities such
as wildfire protection, municipal usage, commerce, tourism, recreation, agriculture, and wildlife
preservation. Also, during a drought, allocations go down and water costs increase, which results in reduced
water availability. Voluntary conservation measures are a normal and ongoing part of system operations
and actively implemented during extended droughts. A reduction of electric power generation and water
quality deterioration are also potential problems. Drought conditions can also cause soil to compact and
not absorb water well, potentially making an area more susceptible to flooding and erosion.
Water Shortage
Southern California counties, including Los Angeles County, generally do not have sufficient groundwater
and surface water supplies to mitigate the severest droughts of the past century. Azusa is fortunate. Potable
water in Azusa is provided by the Azusa Light and Water (ALW) Department via local groundwater
primarily and via the San Gabriel River when groundwater is not sufficient and from the Metropolitan
Water District in extreme conditions. The 2015 City of Azusa Urban Water Management Plan noted
that ALW produces groundwater from groundwater wells that pump water from the Main San
Gabriel Basin. Well No. 9 and the Aspen well are currently inactive due to water quality issues.
The City's wells range in capacity from 900 gallons per minute (gpm) to 3,000 gpm and provide
65 percent of the total water supply. In addition to groundwater, ALW also diverts San Gabriel
River water from either the San Gabriel or the Morris Reservoir and treats it at its Joseph F. Hsu
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Filtration Plant. The Plant has a capacity of 12 million gallons per day (MGD) and provides
approximately one third of the total supply. Azusa Light and Water does have an imported water
supply through its connection to Upper District. The connection has a capacity of 3,300 gpm.
Overall, imported water is used only on an emergency basis to supplement groundwater and
surface water supplies. In addition to imported water and groundwater, ALW’s water supply
system also includes three emergency interconnections: the MWD USG-8 Connection (3,300
gpm), the Valley County Water District Emergency Connection (1,500 gpm), and the City of
Glendora Emergency Connection (1,000 gpm). For storage needs, ALW maintains 13 storage
reservoirs with a capacity of 38 million gallons, 11 of which are in the northern part of the City
above the I-210 Freeway.
Location
Since water shortage happens on a regional scale, the entirety of the City is at risk.
Extent
There is no established scientific scale to measure water shortage. The speed of onset of water shortage
tends to be lengthy. The duration of water shortage can vary, depending on the severity of the drought that
accompanies it.
Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
There have been no federal and two state declarations in Los Angeles County due to drought. This can be
seen in Table 4-19. More information on the 2014 declaration can be found below the table.
Table 4-19 Los Angeles County Drought Disaster Declarations 1950-2017
Disaster Type Federal Declarations State Declarations
Count Years Count Years
Drought 0 – 2 1976, 2014
Totals 0 – 2 –
Source: Cal OES, FEMA
2014 Governor’s Drought Declaration
California’s ongoing response to its five-year drought has been guided by a series of executive orders issued
by Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. that are listed below beginning with the most recent and continuing in
reverse chronological order:
➢ Executive Order B-37-16, May 9, 2016: The Governor’s latest drought-related executive order
established a new water use efficiency framework for California. The order bolstered the state’s drought
resilience and preparedness by establishing longer-term water conservation measures that include
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permanent monthly water use reporting, new urban water use targets, reducing system leaks and
eliminating clearly wasteful practices, strengthening urban drought contingency plans and improving
agricultural water management and drought plans.
➢ Executive Order B-36-15, November 13, 2015: This executive order called for additional actions to
build on the State’s ongoing response to record dry conditions and assist recovery efforts from 2015’s
devastating wildfires.
➢ Executive Order B-29-15, April 1, 2015: Key provisions included ordering the State Water Resources
Control Board (Board) to impose restrictions to achieve a 25-percent reduction in potable urban water
usage through February 28, 2016; directing the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) to
lead a statewide initiative, in partnership with local agencies, to collectively replace 50 million square
feet of lawns and ornamental turf with drought tolerant landscapes, and directing the California Energy
Commission to implement a statewide appliance rebate program to provide monetary incentives for the
replacement of inefficient household devices.
➢ Executive Order B-28-14, December 22, 2014: The order cited paragraph 9 of the January 17, 2014
Proclamation and paragraph 19 of the April 25, 2014 Proclamation (both are linked below) and
extended the operation of the provisions in these paragraphs through May 31, 2016.
➢ Executive Order B-27-14, October 6, 2014: The order directed State agencies to assist local
governments in their response to wildfires during California’s drought conditions.
➢ Executive Order B-26-14, September 18, 2014: The order facilitated efforts to provide water to families
in dire need as extreme drought continued throughout California.
➢ Proclamation of a Continued State of Emergency, April 25, 2014: The order strengthened the State’s
ability to manage water and habitat effectively in drought conditions and called on all Californians to
redouble their efforts to conserve water.
➢ Drought State of Emergency, January 17, 2014: The Governor proclaimed a State of Emergency and
directed State officials to take all necessary actions to make water immediately available. Key measures
in the proclamation included:
✓ Asking all Californians to reduce water consumption by 20 percent and referring residents and
water agencies to the Save Our Water campaign – www.saveourwater.com – for practical advice
on how to do so;
✓ Directing local water suppliers to immediately implement local water shortage contingency plans;
✓ Ordering the Board to consider petitions for consolidation of places of use for the State Water
Project and Central Valley Project, which could streamline water transfers and exchanges between
water users;
✓ Directing DWR and the Board to accelerate funding for projects that could break ground in 2014
and enhance water supplies;
✓ Ordering the Board to put water rights holders across the state on notice that they may be directed
to cease or reduce water diversions based on water shortages;
✓ Asking the Board to consider modifying requirements for releases of water from reservoirs or
diversion limitations so that water may be conserved in reservoirs to protect cold water supplies for
salmon, maintain water supplies and improve water quality.
NCDC Drought Events
The NCDC contains no drought events for Los Angeles County or Azusa.
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HMPC Events
According to the City Planning Team, the most recent drought starting in 2014 resulted in a significant loss
to turf throughout the City. These turf areas were replaced by mulch and drought tolerant landscaping. As
a result of this drought, the City has fully adopted the State’s drought planning program which includes
among other items, continued implementation of water conservation measures. In t he City’s foothills,
impacts included a loss of scrub and other ground cover on both sides of the river. This included a loss of
Chaparral, a usually drought tolerant vegetation.
Also, according to the City Planning Team, the recent drought did cause a reduced water supply, but the
City noted that they are better off than other areas in LA County. The City has its own surface water sources
combined with some groundwater which is all managed through City water.
Historically, California has experienced multiple severe droughts. According to the DWR, the 1929-34
drought established the criteria commonly used in designing storage capacity and yield of large northern
California reservoirs. The driest single year of California’s measured hydrologic record between 1850 and
2000 was 1977. Figure 4-22 depicts California’s Multi-Year Historical Dry Periods, 1850-2000. Figure
4-23 depicts runoff for the State from 1900 to 2015. This gives a historical context for the 2014 -2015
drought to past droughts
Figure 4-22 California’s Multi-Year Historical Dry Periods, 1850-2000
Source: California Department of Water Resources, www.water.ca.gov/
Notes: Dry periods prior to 1900 estimated from limited data; covers dry periods of statewide or major regional extent
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Figure 4-23 Annual California Runoff – 1900 to 2015
Source: California DWR
Water Shortage
Figure 4-24 illustrates several indicators commonly used to evaluate water conditions in California. The
percent of average values are determined by measurements made in each of the ten major hydrologic
regions. The chart describes water conditions in California between 1996 and 2007. The chart illustrates
the cyclical nature of weather patterns in California. Snow pack and precipitation increased between 1996
and 1997, began decreasing in 1998, and began to show signs of recovery in 2002, increased in 2005, and
decreased sharply in 2007.
Figure 4-24 Water Supply Conditions, 1996 to 2012
Source: 2013 State of California Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Since 2012, snowpack levels in California had dropped dramatically. 2015 estimates placed snowpack as
5 percent of normal levels. Snowpack measurements have been kept in California since 1950 and nothing
in the historic record comes close 2015’s severely depleted level. The previous record for the lowest
snowpack level in California, 25 percent of normal, was set both in 1976-77 and 2013-2014. In “normal”
years, the snowpack supplies about 30 percent of California’s water needs, according to the California
Department of Water Resources. Snowpack levels began to increase in 2016, and in 2017 snowpack
increased to the largest in 22 years, according to the State Department of Water Resources.
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Drought
Likely—Historical drought data for Azusa and region indicate there have been 5 significant droughts in the
last 85 years. This equates to a drought every 17 years on average or a 5.8 percent chance of a drought in
any given year. Based on this data, droughts will affect the City of Azusa.
Water Shortage
Likely— Recent historical data for water shortage indicates that Azusa is at risk to both short and prolonged
periods of water shortage. Based on this it is likely that water shortages will affect the City. Potable water
in Azusa is provided by the Azusa Light and Water (ALW) Department via local groundwater primarily
and via the San Gabriel River when groundwater is not sufficient and from the Metropolitan Water District
in extreme conditions. Future water use projections must consider significant factors on water demand,
such as development and/or redevelopment, and climate patterns, among other less significant factors that
affect water demand. Although redevelopment is expected to be an ongoing process, it is not expected to
significantly impact water use since ALW is already in a near "built-out" condition. Rainfall, however, will
continue to be a major influence on demand as drought conditions will increase demand at a time when
these supplies are limited and may therefore result in water use restrictions in accordance with ALW's
Emergency Conservation Plan Ordinance.
Climate Change and Drought and Water Shortage
Climate scientists studying California find that drought conditions are likely to become more frequent and
persistent over the 21st century due to climate change. The experiences of California during recent years
underscore the need to examine more closely the state’s water storage, distribution, management,
conservation, and use policies. The CAS stresses the need for public policy development addressing long
term climate change impacts on water supplies. The CAS notes that climate change is likely to significantly
diminish California’s future water supply, stating that:
California must change its water management and uses because climate change will likely create greater
competition for limited water supplies needed by the environment, agriculture, and cities.
According to California’s Adaptation Planning Guide: Understanding Regional Characteristics, the City
falls within the South Coast Region designated based on similarities in biophysical setting, climate and
jurisdictional characteristics. These regions were established to better address climate change issues
associated with climate vulnerability assessment and adaptation planning. According to this guide, the
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region derives its water supply primarily from the State Water Project (SWP) (which draws from the Sier ra),
the Colorado River, groundwater, and local imports. These sources vary in quantity in a given year, but on
average the SWP and groundwater provide more than 1 million acre-feet each, while the Colorado River
provides nearly the same. Depending on the water supply in a given year, approximately 5 million acre-
feet of water are used. Most of the use is by urban areas at around 4 million acre -feet, followed by
agriculture, which uses about 0.5 to 1 million acre-feet annually. Total reservoir storage capacity is about
3 million acre-feet. While the City is insulated from this due to their use of differing water sources,
competition for future water sources may be greater due to increased population and static or dropping
water supplies.
Members of the HMPC noted a report published in Science magazine in 2015 that stated:
Given current greenhouse gas emissions, the chances of a 35+ year “megadrought” striking the Southwest by
2100 are above 80 percent.
The HMPC also noted a report from the Public Policy Institute of California that thousands of Californians
– mostly in rural, small, disadvantaged communities – already face acute water scarcity, contaminated
groundwater, or complete water loss. Climate change would make these effects worse.
4.2.8. Earthquake Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
According to the California Geological Survey (CGS), an earthquake is caused by a sudden slip on a fault.
Stresses in the earth’s outer layer push the sides of the fault together. Stress builds up, and the rocks slip
suddenly, releasing energy in waves that travel through the earth’s crust and cause the sha king that is felt
during an earthquake.
Location
California is seismically active because it sits on the boundary between two of the earth’s tectonic plates.
Most of the state ‐ everything east of the San Andreas Fault ‐ is on the North American Plate. The cities of
Monterey, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and San Diego are on the Pacific Plate, which is constantly moving
northwest past the North American Plate. The relative rate of movement is about two inches per year. The
San Andreas Fault is considered the boundary between the two plates, although some of the motion is taken
up on faults as far away as central Utah.
The General Plan Environmental Impact Report detailed the geology specific to the City. The geology of
the City of Azusa can be thought of in three basic types of geologic groupings. The steeper mountains are
made up of very old "basement" rocks that are generally very hard and resistant to erosion. Formations in
the foothills are old "bedrock" formations and the oldest "alluvium" format ions. South of the steep
mountains and foothills are the intermediate-age and younger alluvium formations (often called alluvial
fans because of their shape on a map), and man-made fill deposits. The geologic units that are found in the
City are shown in Table 4-20.
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Table 4-20 Azusa – Geologic Units
Geologic Unit Location
Artificial Fill Fond either as dams or in the quarries/pits where reclamation is underway.
Youngest Alluvium Found in the San Gabriel River active channel and active floodplains, in the
immediate vicinity of Little Dalton Wash, in a few small canyons along the foothills,
and in the local talus deposits at the base of steep slopes (e.g., quarries). Talus is the
wedge- or cone-shaped accumulation of material that moves under gravity from a
slope face to the base of a slope.
Landslide Deposits Found along steep-walled canyons in the foothills and in the steep mountainsides
along San Gabriel Canyon Road and west of Fish Canyon Road. It is most abundant
in the basement rock of the mountains.
Young Alluvial Fan Deposits Located to the east of the active San Gabriel River floodplain extending to meet the
intermediate-age alluvial fan deposits along a line connecting the intersection of
Sierra Madre Boulevard and Azusa Avenue with Little Dalton Wash and Alosta
Avenue.
Intermediate-Age Alluvial Fan
Deposits
Occupies the flatter alluvial area bordering the foothills.
Older Alluvial Fan Deposits Found in isolated patches along the flanks of San Gabriel Canyon (each side of San
Gabriel Canyon Road) north of the central City area. Older alluvial fan deposits are
also found in the foothills along the base on the mountains just northeast of the
central City area
Bedrock--Topanga Formation
and Glendora Volcanics
Found throughout the flatter portions of the City. Bedrock exposures are known
along the Sierra Madre and Duarte faults east of Azusa Avenue at the transition from
a) the higher mountains to the foothills, and b) the foothills to the alluvial fans.
Source: City of Azusa, "Analysis of Existing Conditions and Trends," December 2001.
Earthquake Hazards
Earthquakes can cause structural damage, injury, and loss of life, as well as damage to infrastructure
networks, such as water, power, gas, communication, and transportation. Earthquakes may also cause
collateral emergencies including dam and levee failures, seiches, hazmat incidents, fires, and landslides.
The degree of damage depends on many interrelated factors. Among these are: the magnitude, focal depth,
distance from the causative fault, source mechanism, duration of shaking, high rock accelerations, type of
surface deposits or bedrock, degree of consolidation of surface deposits, presence of high groundwater,
topography, and the design, type, and quality of building construction. This section briefly discusses issues
related to types of seismic hazards.
Ground Shaking
Groundshaking is motion that occurs as a result of energy released during faulting. The damage or collapse
of buildings and other structures caused by groundshaking is among the most serious seismic hazards.
Damage to structures from this vibration, or groundshaking, is caused by the transmission of earthquake
vibrations from the ground to the structure. The intensity of shaking and its potential impact on buildings
is determined by the physical characteristics of the underlying soil and rock, building materials and
workmanship, earthquake magnitude and location of epicenter, and the character and duration of ground
motion.
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Seismic Structural Safety
Older buildings constructed before building codes were established, and even newer buildings constructed
before earthquake-resistance provisions were included in the codes, are the most likely to be damaged
during an earthquake. Buildings one or two stories high of wood-frame construction are considered to be
the most structurally resistant to earthquake damage. Older masonry buildings without seismic
reinforcement (unreinforced masonry) are the most susceptible to the type of structural failure that causes
injury or death.
The susceptibility of a structure to damage from ground shaking is also related to the underlying foundat ion
material. A foundation of rock or very firm material can intensify short-period motions which affect low-
rise buildings more than tall, flexible ones. A deep layer of water-logged soft alluvium can cushion low-
rise buildings, but it can also accentuate the motion in tall buildings. The amplified motion resulting from
softer alluvial soils can also severely damage older masonry buildings.
Other potentially dangerous conditions include, but are not limited to: building architectural features that
are not firmly anchored, such as parapets and cornices; roadways, including column and pile bents and
abutments for bridges and overcrossings; and above-ground storage tanks and their mounting devices. Such
features could be damaged or destroyed during strong or sustained ground shaking.
Settlement
Settlement can occur in poorly consolidated soils during ground shaking. During settlement, the soil
materials are physically rearranged by the shaking to result in a less stable alignment of the individual
minerals. Settlement of sufficient magnitude to cause significant structural damage is normally associated
with rapidly deposited alluvial soils or improperly founded or poorly compacted fill. These areas are known
to undergo extensive settling with the addition of irrigation water, but evidence due to ground shaking is
not available.
Other Hazards
Earthquakes can also cause landslides and dam failures. Earthquakes may cause landslides (discussed in
Section 4.2.11), particularly during the wet season, in areas of high water or saturated soils. Finally,
earthquakes can cause dams to fail (see Section 4.2.4 Dam Failure).
Faults
A fault is defined by the CGS as “a fracture or fracture zone in the earth’s crust along which there has been
displacement of the sides relative to one another.” For the purpose of planning there are two types of faults,
active and inactive. Active faults have experienced displacement in historic time, suggesting that future
displacement may be expected. Inactive faults show no evidence of movement in recent geologic time,
suggesting that these faults are dormant. This does not mean, however, that faults having no evidence of
surface displacement within the last 11,000 years are necessarily inactive. For example, the 1975 Oroville
earthquake, the 1983 Coalinga earthquake, and the 1987 Whittier Narrows earthquake occurred on faults
not previously recognized as active. Potentially active faults are those that have shown displacement within
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the last 1.6 million years (Quaternary). An inactive fault shows no evidence of movement in historic (last
200 years) or geologic time, suggesting that these faults are dormant.
Two types of fault movement represent possible hazards to structures in the immediate vicinity of the fault:
fault creep and sudden fault displacement. Fault creep, a slow movement of one side of a fault relative to
the other, can cause cracking and buckling of sidewalks and foundations even without perceptible ground
shaking. Sudden fault displacement occurs during an earthquake event and may result in the collapse of
buildings or other structures that are found along the fault zone when fault displacement exceeds an inch or
two. The only protection against damage caused directly by fault displacement is to prohibit construction
in the fault zone.
The State of California Department of Conservation indicates that no Alquist-Priolo Fault Hazard Zones
are located in Azusa. This can be seen in Figure 4-25.
Figure 4-25 Azusa – Earthquake Zones
Source: California Department of Conservation
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However, multiple known faults traverse the city, including the Sierra Madre Fault and the Upper Duarte
Fault, as well as multiple unnamed faults. Furthermore, four critical regional faults (Sie rra, Raymond,
Whittier, and San Andreas Central) are located within a 100 kilometer radius of the City. Rupture of any
of these faults could result in an earthquake that could result in severe ground shaking in Azusa. Figure
4-26 is a map of faults in the Azusa area with the potential for strong earthquake shaking.
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Figure 4-26 Active Faults in and around Azusa
Source: City of Azusa General Plan
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Maps indicating the maximum expectable intensity of groundshaking for LA County are available through
several sources. Figure 4-27, prepared by the California Division of Mines and Geology, shows the
expected relative intensity of ground shaking and damage in California from anticipated future earthquakes.
The shaking potential is calculated as the level of ground motion that has a 2% chance of being exceeded
in 50 years, which is the same as the level of ground-shaking with about a 2,500-year average repeat time.
According to the map, Azusa is located in an area of high earthquake shaking.
Figure 4-27 Maximum Expectable Earthquake Intensity
Source: California Division of Mines and Geology. Earthquake Shaking Potential for California, 2003.
Extent
The amount of energy released during an earthquake is usually expressed as a magnitude and is measured
directly from the earthquake as recorded on seismographs. An earthquake’s magnitude is expressed in
whole numbers and decimals (e.g., 6.8). Seismologists have developed several magnitude scales. One of
the first was the Richter Scale, developed in 1932 by the late Dr. Charles F. Richter of the California
Institute of Technology. The Richter Magnitude Scale is used to quantify the magnitude or strength of the
seismic energy released by an earthquake. Another measure of earthquake severity is intensity. Intensity
is an expression of the amount of shaking at any given location on the ground surface (see Table 4-21).
Seismic shaking is typically the greatest cause of losses to structures during earthquakes.
Table 4-21 Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) Scale
MMI Felt Intensity
I Not felt except by a very few people under special conditions. Detected mostly by instruments.
II Felt by a few people, especially those on upper floors of buildings. Suspended objects may swing.
III Felt noticeably indoors. Standing automobiles may rock slightly.
IV Felt by many people indoors; by a few outdoors. At night, some people are awakened. Dishes, windows, and
doors rattle.
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MMI Felt Intensity
V Felt by nearly everyone. Many people are awakened. Some dishes and windows are broken. Unstable objects
are overturned.
VI Felt by everyone. Many people become frightened and run outdoors. Some heavy furniture is moved. Some
plaster falls.
VII Most people are alarmed and run outside. Damage is negligible in buildings of good construction, considerable
in buildings of poor construction.
VIII Damage is slight in specially designed structures, considerable in ordinary buildings, and great in poorly built
structures. Heavy furniture is overturned.
IX Damage is considerable in specially designed buildings. Buildings shift from their foundations and partly
collapse. Underground pipes are broken.
X Some well-built wooden structures are destroyed. Most masonry structures are destroyed. The ground is badly
cracked. Considerable landslides occur on steep slopes.
XI Few, if any, masonry structures remain standing. Rails are bent. Broad fissures appear in the ground.
XII Virtually total destruction. Waves are seen on the ground surface. Objects are thrown in the air .
Source: Multi-Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment, FEMA 1997
Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
There has been three federal and five state disaster declarations for earthquakes in Los Angeles County.
This can be seen in Table 4-22. More information can be found below the table. The HMPC noted no
specific damages from these quakes.
Table 4-22 Los Angeles County Earthquake Disaster Declarations 1950-2017
Disaster Type Federal Declarations State Declarations
Count Years Count Years
Earthquake 3 1971, 1987, 1994 5 1971, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1994
Totals 3 – 5 –
Source: Cal OES, FEMA
➢ The 1971 earthquake declarations (federal and state) were from the San Fernando earthquake.
➢ The 1987 earthquake declarations (federal and state) were from the Whittier Narrow earthquake.
➢ The 1990 state earthquake disaster declaration was from the Upland earthquake.
➢ The 1991 state earthquake disaster declaration was from the Sierra Madre.
➢ The 1994 earthquake declarations (federal and state) were from the Northridge earthquake.
NCDC Events
The NCDC database does not track earthquakes.
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USGS Events
In addition, the USGS National Earthquake Information Center database contains data on earthquakes in
the Azusa area. Table 4-23 shows the approximate distances earthquakes can be felt away from the
epicenter. According to the table, a magnitude 5.0 earthquake could be felt up to 90 miles away. The
USGS database was searched for magnitude 5.0 or greater on the Richter Scale within 90 miles of the City
of Azusa. These results are shown on Table 4-23.
Table 4-23 Approximate Relationships between Earthquake Magnitude and Intensity
Richter Scale Magnitude Maximum Expected Intensity (MM)* Distance Felt (miles)
2.0 - 2.9 I – II 0
3.0 - 3.9 II – III 10
4.0 - 4.9 IV – V 50
5.0 - 5.9 VI – VII 90
6.0 - 6.9 VII – VIII 135
7.0 - 7.9 IX – X 240
8.0 - 8.9 XI – XII 365
*Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale.
Source: United State Geologic Survey, Earthquake Intensity Zonation and Quaternary Deposits, Miscellaneous Field Studies Map
9093, 1977.
Table 4-24 Magnitude 5.0 Earthquakes within 90 Miles of Azusa
Date* Richter Magnitude Location
12/26/1951 5.75 11km NNE of San Clemente Is. (SE tip), CA
7/21/1952 5.8 13km WNW of Grapevine, CA
7/23/1952 5.55 13km ENE of Grapevine, CA
7/25/1952 5.55 22km N of Tehachapi, CA
7/31/1952 5.64 14km NNW of Tehachapi, CA
8/7/1952 5.03 19km NW of Grapevine, CA
1/12/1954 5.4 13km WNW of Grapevine, CA
5/23/1954 5.03 7km WNW of Grapevine, CA
9/23/1963 5.29 6km SSE of Hemet, CA
9/25/1965 5.14 25km W of Ludlow, CA
9/12/1970 5.22 3km W of Lytle Creek, CA
2/9/1971 5.8 10km SSW of Agua Dulce, CA
2/21/1973 5.3 22km W of Malibu, CA
8/6/1973 5.14 9km SSE of Santa Cruz Is. (E end), CA
6/1/1975 5.28 38km SW of Ludlow, CA
1/1/1979 5.21 13km S of Malibu Beach, CA
3/15/1979 5.23 23km NNW of Joshua Tree, CA
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Date* Richter Magnitude Location
2/25/1980 5.34 18km ESE of Anza, CA
9/4/1981 5.45 11km NNW of Santa Barbara Is., CA
7/8/1986 6 6km SSW of Morongo Valley, CA
7/13/1986 5.45 47km ENE of San Clemente Is. (SE tip), CA
10/1/1987 5.9 2km SSW of Rosemead, CA
10/4/1987 5.25 2km WSW of Rosemead, CA
6/10/1988 5.37 16km NE of Lebec, CA
12/3/1988 5.02 1km SSE of Pasadena, CA
12/16/1988 5.03 12km SW of Morongo Valley, CA
2/28/1990 5.7 Greater Los Angeles area, California
6/28/1991 5.8 13km NNE of Sierra Madre, CA
4/23/1992 6.1 17km NNE of Thousand Palms, California
6/28/1992 6.3 7km SSE of Big Bear City, CA
6/29/1992 5.69 3km ESE of Yucca Valley, California
7/1/1992 5.34 24km N of Yucca Valley, California
7/9/1992 5.3 Southern California
7/11/1992 5.67 12km NW of California City, California
8/17/1992 5.23 7km SE of Big Bear Lake, California
9/15/1992 5.26 9km SE of Yucca Valley, California
11/27/1992 5.29 10km NNW of Big Bear City, California
12/4/1992 5.26 10km SE of Lucerne Valley, California
8/21/1993 5 12km S of Joshua Tree, California
1/17/1994 5.8 Greater Los Angeles area, California
1/18/1994 5.24 10km ESE of Piru, California
1/19/1994 5.06 8km ESE of Piru, California
1/29/1994 5.06 6km NNE of Chatsworth, California
3/20/1994 5.24 3km WNW of Panorama City, California
6/26/1995 5.02 11km SW of Valencia, California
3/18/1997 5.26 20km ENE of Barstow, California
4/26/1997 5.07 12km ESE of Piru, California
10/16/1999 5.6 7km ENE of Running Springs, CA
10/31/2001 5.02 16km ESE of Anza, CA
6/12/2005 5.2 10km ESE of Anza, CA
7/29/2008 5.44 5km S of Chino Hills, CA
3/29/2014 5.1 2km NW of Brea, CA
Source: USGS
*Search dates 1/1/1950 to 5/1/2017
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The 2013 California State Hazard Mitigation Plan contained a map of large earthquakes in the State since
1769. That is shown in Figure 4-28.
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Figure 4-28 Major Earthquakes in California since 1769
Source: 2013 California State Hazard Mitigation Plan
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HMPC Events
The HMPC noted the following events that affected the City and surrounding areas prior to 1950. This
includes the earthquakes in Table 4-25. The HMPC could not recall if specific damages occurred to the
City as a result.
Table 4-25 Earthquake Events in Los Angeles County 1769 to 2014
Year Date Location Time Richter Mercalli Deaths &
Property
Damage
1769 Jul 28 L.A. Area --- 6.0 VIII No
information
1812 Dec 8 L.A. Area 3:00pm 7.0 VII 40 deaths,
Mission San
Juan
Capistrano
severely to
moderately
damaged.
Mission San
Gabriel
moderately
damaged.
1827 Sep 24 L.A. Area 4:00am 5.5 --- No
information
1855 Jul 11 L.A. Area 4:15am 6.0 VIII Bells of
Mission San
Gabriel torn
down. 26
buildings
damaged in
L.A.
1857 Jan 9 Fort Tejon 4:24pm 7.9 IX 2 deaths;
Heavy
property
damage and
loss
1916 Oct 23 Tejon Pass
Region
2:44pm 5.3 --- No
information
1933 Mar 10 Long Beach 5:54pm 6.4 IX 120 deaths;
$50 million
1941 Oct 21 Torrance-
Gardena
10:57pm 4.8 VII No deaths;
$100,000
1941 Nov 14 Torrance-
Gardena
12:42am 4.8 VIII No deaths; $1
million
1951 Dec 25 San Clemente
Island
4:46pm 5.9 --- No deaths; No
appreciable
damage
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Year Date Location Time Richter Mercalli Deaths &
Property
Damage
1971 Feb 9 San Fernando 6:01am 6.6 --- 65 deaths;
$505 million
1979 Jan 1 Malibu 3:15pm 5.2 --- No deaths;
minor damage
1987 Oct 1 Whittier-
Narrows
7:42am 5.9 --- 8 deaths; $358
million
1988 Dec 3 Pasadena 11:38pm 5.0 --- No deaths; No
appreciable
damage
1989 Jan 19 Malibu 10:38pm 5.0 --- No deaths;
slight damage
1989 Jun 12 Montebello 9:57am 4.6 --- No deaths; No
appreciable
damage
1991 Jun 28 Sierra Madre 7:44am 5.8 --- 2 deaths; $40
million
1994 Jan 17 Northridge 4:31am 6.7 --- 61 deaths Est.
$20 billion
2001 Sep 9 SE of West
Hollywood
4:59pm 4.2 --- No deaths;
moderate
damage
2010 Mar 16 Pico Rivera 4:04am 4.4 --- No deaths;
moderate
damage
2014 Mar 17 Encino 6:25am 4.4 --- No deaths;
moderate
damage
Source: LA Almanac
The City Planning Team noted that while many of these earthquakes have been felt by residents of Azusa,
damages to the City during these past earthquake events have been limited, confined to mostly cosmetic
damages. Notable earthquake events for the City included: Northridge, Chino Hills, Whittier, and the
Sierra Madres. The planning team further noted that as a result of the Sierra Madre event, the mountains
moved upwards an estimated ½ inch.
The City Planning Team also noted that during earthquakes in surrounding areas, issues of concern to the
City include those related to impacts to the regional transportation systems. When freeways and roads are
impacted, communities can become isolated causing interruptions to food and gas supplies and other
necessities. The City’s economy can also be impacted during regional earthquake events, even when the
City does not sustain direct impacts.
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Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Occasional (major earthquake)/Likely (minor earthquake) – Based on historical data and the location
of the City relative to active and potentially active faults, Azusa may experience a significantly damaging
earthquake occasionally.
In 2014, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the California Geological Survey (CGS) released
the time‐dependent version of the Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast (UCERF III) model.
The UCERF III results have helped to reduce the uncertainty in estimated 30 ‐year probabilities of strong
ground motions in California. The UCERF map is shown in Figure 4-29 and indicates that Azusa has a
moderate to high risk of earthquake occurrence, which coincides with the likelihood of future occurrence
rating of occasional.
Figure 4-29 Probability of Earthquake Magnitudes Occurring in 30 Year Time Frame
Source: United States Geological Survey Open File Report 2015‐3009
Climate Change and Earthquake
According to the CAS, climate change is unlikely to increase earthquake frequency or strength.
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4.2.9. Earthquake: Liquefaction Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
Liquefaction can be defined as the loss of soil strength or stiffness due to a buildup of pore-water pressure
during a seismic event and is associated primarily with relatively loose, saturated fine - to medium-grained
unconsolidated soils. Areas most prone to liquefaction are those that are water saturated (e.g., where the
water table is less than 30 feet below the surface) and consist of relatively uniform sands that are loose to
medium density. In addition to necessary soil conditions, the ground acceleration and duration of the
earthquake must be of sufficient energy to induce liquefaction. Seismic ground shaking of relatively loose,
granular soils that are saturated or submerged can cause the soils to liquefy and temporarily behave as a
dense fluid. If this layer is at the surface, its effect is much like that of quicksand for any structure located
on it. If the liquefied layer is in the subsurface, the material above it may slide laterally depending on the
confinement of the unstable mass. Liquefaction is caused by a sudden temporary increase in pore-water
pressure due to seismic densification or other displacement of submerged granular soils. Liquefiable soil
conditions are not uncommon in alluvial deposits in moderate to large canyons and could also be present
in other areas of alluvial soils where the groundwater level is shallow (i.e., 50 feet below the surface).
Bedrock units, due to their dense nature, are unlikely to present a liquefaction hazard.
Location
The City’s General Plan Natural Environment Element noted that the hazard of liquefaction, where a buried
saturated sand layer liquefies during an earthquake, is present over nearly all of the City’s valley due to the
shallow water and strong earthquake shaking potential. According to the Azusa General Plan EIR, much
of the northern portion of the City, north of Foothill Boulevard has potential for liquefaction as does a
portion south of Foothill Boulevard to approximately 2 nd Street between Todd Avenue and Rockvale
Avenue. As noted above, the City of Azusa is located within a seismicall y active region of Southern
California. However, liquefaction hazards occur in areas where groundwater exists near the ground surface.
According to the General Plan EIR, the depth to groundwater is more than 50 feet, resulting in low potential
for liquefaction.
Extent
Liquefaction during major earthquakes has caused severe damage to structures on level ground as a result
of settling, titling, or floating. Such damage occurred in San Francisco on bay-filled areas during the 1989
Loma Prieta earthquake, even though the epicenter was several miles away. If liquefaction occurs in or
under a sloping soil mass, the entire mass may flow toward a lower elevation. Also of particular concern
in terms of developed and newly developing areas are fill areas that have been poorly compacted.
Typical effects of liquefaction include:
➢ Loss of bearing strength—the ground can liquefy and lose its ability to support structures.
➢ Lateral spreading—the ground can slide down very gentle slopes or toward stream banks riding on a
buried liquefied layer.
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➢ Sand boils—sand-laden water can be ejected from a buried liquefied layer and erupt at the surface to
form sand volcanoes; the surrounding ground often fractures and settles.
➢ Flow failures—earth moves down steep slope with large displacement and much internal disruption of
material.
➢ Ground oscillation—the surface layer, riding on a buried liquefied layer, is thrown back and forth by
the shaking and can be severely deformed.
➢ Flotation—light structures that are buried in the ground (like pipelines, sewers and nearly empty fuel
tanks) can float to the surface when they are surrounded by liquefied soil.
➢ Settlement—when liquefied ground re-consolidates following an earthquake, the ground surface may
settle or subside as shaking decreases and the underlying liquefied soil becomes more dense.
Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
There have been no federal or state disaster declaration due to earthquake liquefaction.
NCDC Events
The NCDC does not track liquefaction events.
HMPC Events
The City noted there have been no liquefaction occurrences from recent major earthquakes. Liquefaction is
reviewed and addressed through the City’s process to ensure consistency with the current adopted version
of the California Building Code (CBC). In addition, a soils report is required for all development.
Likelihood of Future Occurrences
Occasional – Due to the City’s proximity to major faults, combined with the areas of the City where
groundwater exists near the surface, the City does have risk to future liquefaction. Since liquefaction is a
secondary hazard to earthquake, future occurrence in the City is considered occasional.
Climate Change and Earthquake
According to the CAS, climate change is unlikely to increase earthquake frequency or strength.
4.2.10. Flood: 1%/0.2% Annual Chance Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
According to Cal DWR, flooding is the rising and overflowing of a body of water onto normally dry land.
Floods are among the most costly natural disasters in terms of human hardship and economic loss
nationwide. Floods can cause substantial damage to structures, landscapes, and utilities as well as life safety
issues. Floods can be extremely dangerous, and even six inches of moving water can knock over a person
given a strong current. A car will float in less than two feet of moving water and can be swept downstream
into deeper waters. This is one reason floods kill more people trapped in vehicles than anywhere else.
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During a flood, people can also suffer heart attacks or electrocution due to electrical equipment short outs.
Floodwaters can transport large objects downstream which can damage or remove stationary structures.
Ground saturation can result in instability, collapse, or other damage. Objects can also be buried or
destroyed through sediment deposition. Floodwaters can also break utilities lines and interrupt services.
Standing water can cause damage to crops, road, foundations, and electrical circuits. Direct impacts, such
as drowning, can be limited with adequate warning and public education about what to do during floods.
Where flooding occurs in populated areas, warning and evacuation will be of critical importance to reduce
life and safety impacts from any type of flooding.
Health Hazards from Flooding
According to FEMA, certain health hazards are also common to flood events. While such problems are
often not reported, three general types of health hazards accompany floods. The first comes from the water
itself. Floodwaters carry anything that was on the ground that the upstream runoff picked up, including dirt,
oil, animal waste, and lawn, farm and industrial chemicals. Pastures and areas where cattle and hogs are
kept or their wastes are stored can contribute polluted waters to the receiving streams.
Floodwaters also saturate the ground, which leads to infiltration into sanitary sewer lines. When wastewater
treatment plants are flooded, there is nowhere for the sewage to flow. Infiltration and lack of treatment can
lead to overloaded sewer lines that can back up into low-lying areas and homes. Even when it is diluted by
flood waters, raw sewage can be a breeding ground for bacteria such as e. coli and other disease causing
agents.
The second type of health problem arises after most of the water has gone. Stagnant pools can become
breeding grounds for mosquitoes, and wet areas of a building that have not been properly cleaned breed
mold and mildew. A building that is not thoroughly cleaned becomes a health hazard, especially for small
children and the elderly.
Another health hazard occurs when heating ducts in a forced air system are not properly cleaned after
inundation. When the furnace or air conditioner is turned on, the sediments left in the ducts are circulated
throughout the building and breathed in by the occupants. If a water system loses pressure, a boil order may
be issued to protect people and animals from contaminated water.
The third problem is the long-term psychological impact of having been through a flood and seeing one’s
home damaged and irreplaceable keepsakes destroyed. The cost and labor needed to repair a flood-damaged
home puts a severe strain on people, especially the unprepared and uninsured. There is also a long-term
problem for those who know that their homes can be flooded again. The resulting stress on floodplain
residents takes its toll in the form of aggravated physical and mental health problems.
Location
Floodplains
The area adjacent to a channel is the floodplain (see Figure 4-30). Floodplains are illustrated on inundation
maps, which show areas of potential flooding and water depths. In its common usage, the floodplain most
often refers to that area that is inundated by the 100-year flood, the flood that has a one percent chance in
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any given year of being equaled or exceeded (1% annual chance flood). The 1% annual chance flood is the
national minimum standard to which communities regulate their floodplains through the National Flood
Insurance Program. The 200-year flood is one that has 0.5% chance of being equaled or exceeded each
year. The 500-year flood is the flood that has a 0.2 percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any
given year (0.2% annual chance flood). The potential for flooding can change and increase through various
land use changes and changes to land surface, which result in a change to the floodplain. A change in
environment can create localized flooding problems inside and outside of natural floodplains by altering or
confining natural drainage channels. These changes are most often created by human activity.
Figure 4-30 Floodplain Schematic
Source: FEMA
There are three types of freshwater flood events in the Azusa area: riverine, flash, and urban stormwater.
Regardless of the type of flood, the cause is often the result of severe weather and excessive rainfall, either
in the flood area or upstream reaches.
➢ Riverine flooding is the most common type of flood event and occurs when a watercourse exceeds its
“bank-full” capacity. Riverine flooding generally occurs as a result of prolonged rainfall, or rainfall
that is combined with already saturated soils from previous rain events. The duration of riverine floods
may vary from a few hours to many days. Factors that directly affect the amount of flood runoff include
precipitation amount, intensity and distribution, the amount of soil moisture, seasonal variation in
vegetation, snow depth, and water-resistance of the surface due to urbanization. The warning time
associated with slow rise floods assists in life and property protection.
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➢ The term “flash flood” describes localized floods of great volume and short duration. In contrast to
riverine flooding, this type of flood usually results from a heavy rainfall on a relatively small drainage
area. Precipitation of this sort usually occurs in the winter and spring. Flash floods often require
immediate evacuation within the hour.
➢ Stormwater/Urban flood events have increased as land has been converted from fields or woodlands
to roads and parking lots and lost its ability to absorb rainfall. Urbanization increases runoff by two to
six times that of natural terrain. This is discussed in the Localized Flooding section of this hazard profile
below.
The area is also at risk to flooding resulting from levee failures and dam failures. Dam failure flooding is
discussed separately in Section 4.2.6 of this document; levee failure flooding is discussed separately in
Section 4.2.13 of this document. Regardless of the type of flood, the cause is often the result of severe
weather and excessive rainfall, either in the flood area or upstream reach.
The potential for flooding can change and increase through various land use changes and changes to land
surface, resulting in a change to the floodplain. Environmental changes can create localized flooding
problems in and outside of natural floodplains by altering or confining natural drainage channels. These
changes are most often created by human activity.
Major Sources of Flooding
According to Cal DWR, California is divided into 10 hydrologic regions . Los Angeles County and Azusa
are traversed by one hydrologic region: the South Coast. A map of the California’s hydrological regions is
provided in Figure 4-31.
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Figure 4-31 California Hydrologic Regions
Source: California Department of Water Resources
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Azusa Streams and Watersheds
The City of Azusa is located in the San Gabriel River Watershed. The San Gabriel River Watershed is
located in the eastern portion of Los Angeles County. It is bound by the San Gabriel Mountains to the
north, most of San Bernardino/Orange County to the east, the division of the Los Angeles River from the
San Gabriel River to the west, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. The watershed drains into the San Gabriel
River from the San Gabriel Mountains flowing 58 miles south until its confluence with the Pacific Ocean.
The watershed can be seen in Figure 4-32.
Major tributaries to the San Gabriel River include Walnut Creek, San Jose Cree k, Coyote Creek, and
numerous storm drains entering from the 19 cities that the San Gabriel River passes through. Channel flows
pass through different sections in the San Gabriel river, diverting from the riverbed into four different
spreading grounds, held behind several rubber dams for controlled flow and ground water recharge, and
controlled through 10 miles of concrete channel bottom from below Whittier Narrows Dam to past Coyote
Creek. Waterways and floodwater areas in the City are shown in Figure 4-33.
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Figure 4-32 Azusa – Watersheds
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Figure 4-33 Azusa – Waterways and Floodwater Areas
Source: City of Azusa Housing Element Initial Study
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Floodplain Mapping
FEMA established standards for floodplain mapping studies as part of the National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP). The NFIP makes flood insurance available to property owners in participating
communities adopting FEMA-approved local floodplain studies, maps, and regulations. Floodplain studies
that may be approved by FEMA include federally funded studies; studies developed by state, city, and
regional public agencies; and technical studies generated by private interests as part of property annexation
and land development efforts. Such studies may include entire stream reaches or limited stream sections
depending on the nature and scope of a study. A general overview of floodplain mapping and associated
products is provided in the following paragraphs.
Flood Insurance Study (FIS)
The FIS develops flood-risk data for various areas of the community that will be used to establish flood
insurance rates and to assist the community in its efforts to promote sound floodplain management. The
current Los Angeles County FISs are dated January 6, 2016.
Digital Flood Insurance Rate Maps (DFIRM)
As part of its Map Modernization program, FEMA is converting paper FIRMS to digital FIRMs, DFIRMS.
These digital maps:
➢ Incorporate the latest updates (LOMRs and LOMAs);
➢ Utilize community supplied data;
➢ Verify the currency of the floodplains and refit them to community supplied basemaps;
➢ Upgrade the FIRMs to a GIS database format to set the stage for future updates and to enable support
for GIS analyses and other digital applications; and
➢ Solicit community participation.
DFIRMs for Los Angeles County and Azusa, dated January 6, 2016 and are used for this plan’s flood hazard
analysis. This is shown in Figure 4-55 in Section 4.3.8.
Department of Water Resource (DWR) Floodplain Mapping
Also to be considered when evaluating the flood risks in Los Angeles County are various floodplain maps
developed by Cal DWR for various areas throughout California, including Los Angeles County and Azusa.
DWR Best Available Maps
The FEMA regulatory maps provide just one perspective on flood risks in Los Angeles County and Azusa.
Senate Bill 5 (SB 5), enacted in 2007, authorized the California DWR to develop the Best Available Maps
(BAM) displaying 100- and 200-year floodplains for areas located within the Sacramento-San Joaquin
(SAC-SJ) Valley watershed. SB 5 requires that these maps contain the best available information on flood
hazards and be provided to cities and counties in the SAC-SJ Valley watershed. This effort was completed
by DWR in 2008. DWR has expanded the BAM to cover all counties in the State and to include 500-year
floodplains.
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Different than the FEMA DFIRMs which have been prepared to support the NFIP and reflect only the 100-
year event risk, the BAMs are provided for informational purposes and are intended to reflect current 100 -
and 500-year event risks using the best available data. The 100-year floodplain limits on the BAM are a
composite of multiple 100-year floodplain mapping sources. It is intended to show all currently identified
areas at risk for a 100-year flood event, including FEMA’s 100-year floodplains. The BAM maps are
comprised of different engineering studies performed by FEMA, Corps, and DWR for assessment of
potential 100- and 500-year floodplain areas. These studies are used for different planning and/or
regulatory applications. They are for the same flood frequency; however, they may use varied analytical
and quality control criteria depending on the study type requirements.
The value in the BAMs is that they provide a bigger picture view of potential flood risk to the City of Azusa
than that provided in the FEMA DFIRMs. This provides the community and residents with an additional
tool for understanding potential flood hazards not currently mapped as a regulated floodplain. Improved
awareness of flood risk can reduce exposure to flooding for new structures and promote increased protection
for existing development. Informed land use planning will also assist in identifying levee maintenance
needs and levels of protection. By including the FEMA 100-year floodplain, it also supports identification
of the need and requirement for flood insurance.
These floodplain maps for Azusa can be seen in Figure 4-34.
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Figure 4-34 City of Azusa – Best Available Map
Source: California DWR
Legend explanation: Blue - FEMA 100-Year, Orange – Local 100-Year (developed from local agencies), Red – DWR 100-year
(Awareness floodplains identify the 100-year flood hazard areas using approximate assessment procedures.), Pink – USACE 100-
Year (2002 Sac and San Joaquin River Basins Comp Study), Yellow – USACE 200-Year (2002 Sac and San Joaquin River Basins
Comp Study), Tan – FEMA 500-Year, Grey – Local 500-Year (developed from local agencies), Purple – USACE 500-Year (2002
Sac and San Joaquin River Basins Comp Study).
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Extent
Flood extents are usually measured in depths of flooding and the area within the 1% and 0.2% annual
chance floodplains. Expected flood depths in the City vary. Flood durations in the City tend to be short to
medium term, or until either the storm drainage system can catch up or flood waters move downstream.
Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
Los Angeles County has experienced multiple federal and state declarations related to flooding since 1950.
These are shown in Table 4-26.
Table 4-26 Los Angeles County Flood Disaster Declaration History from 1950 to 2017
Disaster Type Federal Declarations State Declarations
Count Years Count Years
Flood 12 1954, 1955, 1958, 1962 (two
times), 1963, 1969, 1978, 1980,
1988, 1992, 1993
14 1950, 1955, 1958, 1959, 1962,
1969, 1978, 1980, 1983, 1988,
1992, 1993, 2001, 2003
Totals 12 – 14 –
Source: Cal OES, FEMA
NCDC Events
The NCDC has been tracking severe weather since 1950. This database contains 147 flood related events
that occurred in Los Angeles County between January 1, 1950, and December 31, 2016. Table 4-5
summarizes these events. Events that specifically affected Azusa are detailed below the table.
Table 4-27 NCDC Flood Events for Los Angeles County, 1950 to December 31, 2016*
Event Type Number
of Events
Deaths Injuries Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
Deaths
(indirect)
Injuries
(indirect)
Coastal Flood 1 0 1 $0 $0 0 0
Flash Flood 129 7 4 $1,310,000 $3,200,00 0 0
Flood 17 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Total 147 7 5 $1,310,000 $3,200 0 0
Source: NCDC
*Note: Losses reflect totals for all impacted areas, not just Azusa or Los Angeles County
July 11, 1999 – Heavy thunderstorm rains produced flash flooding along the San Gabriel River, just north
of Azusa. One hundred hikers had to be rescued when the river overflowed its banks.
February 22, 2004 – A cold Pacific storm brought snow and heavy rain to sections of Southern California.
In the mountains of Ventura and Los Angeles counties, 8 to 16 inches of snowfall was reported. In the
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Padua Burn area, California Highway Patrol reported flash flooding and mudslides which closed Mount
Baldy road.
May 22, 2008 – Strong thunderstorms produced heavy rain and flash flooding across east-central Los
Angeles county. California Highway Patrol reported significant flooding and road closures along Interstate
10 and Interstate 605. A cold and unseasonable upper level low pressure system brought strong winds,
strong thunderstorms and flash flooding to Southern California. The upper level low first brought strong
and gusty northerly winds to the mountains of Ventura and Los Angeles counties as well as the Antelope
Valley. Northerly wind gusts between 58 and 85 mph were reported by various automated sensors. As the
upper low moved directly over Southern California, the winds diminished, but moisture and instability
increased. Over east-central Los Angeles county, strong thunderstorms developed, producing damaging
winds and heavy rain. In Azusa, severe thunderstorm winds knocked power poles and lines. In Baldwin
Park, over one inch of small hail accumulated. The strong thunderstorms also brought heavy rain and flash
flooding to the area. Significant flooding and lane closures were reported along Interstate 10 and Interstate
605.
February 28, 2014 – At the end of February and into early March, a strong winter storm moved across
Southern California. This storm generated heavy showers and thunderstorms which produced flash
flooding and debris flows across Los Angeles county on the last day of February. Flash flooding and debris
flows were reported near the Colby burn scar in the San Gabriel Valley near Glendora.
FIS Flood Events
The FIS noted the following flood event that affected Azusa:
During the 1969 storms, considerable damage occurred in the eastern portion of Los Angeles County,
particularly in the foothill areas of the San Gabriel Mountains. Water and mud destroyed or damaged many
residences and other buildings near the Cities of Glendora and Azusa, despite the presence of a large
network of local flood control channels, storm drains, and debris basins.
HMPC Events
The City noted that a primary concern is the heavy downpours that can result in flash flooding. During
flash flood events, people have less time to seek safety, including the homeless and other people in the City
riverbeds.
In 1938, the San Gabriel River reached a peak of 150,000 cu ft/s at the confluence of the East and West
Forks. The water swept into the reservoir of the nearly completed San Gabriel Dam, filling it to capacity.
Dam operators held releases to a maximum of 90,000 cu ft/s, while further downstream Morris Dam was
able to reduce the flood to 65,700 cu ft/s. As a result, large areas of the San Gabriel Valley were spared
from flooding, although damage still occurred locally on smaller streams th at drain out of the mountains.
The City Planning Team noted, that after 1938, when the area flooded heavily, many flood control
improvements were made to the area to reduce future flood risk. These improvements which included the
San Gabriel levee system have been effective in minimizing flood related impacts in the City.
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The City Planning Team noted that in 2017 there were multiple severe storms. The City weathered these
storms well, with the exception of a post-burn area which had some issues. Storm events that followed the
Station Fire resulted in up to 3-feet of mud on City streets in the western portion of the City. Storm events
that followed the Colby Fire resulted in mudflow and flooding to several homes on Ridge View Drive in
the City, as well as flooding in homes in the San Gabriel Canyon area. More information on this can be
found in the past occurrences discussion of localized flooding in Section 4.2.11.
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
1% Annual Chance Flood
Occasional—This is the flood that has a 1- percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.
Thus, the 1% annual chance flood could occur more than once in a relatively short period of time.
0.2% Annual Chance Flood
Unlikely—The flood has a 0.2 percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.
Climate Change and Flood
According to the CAS, climate change may affect flooding in the City. While average annual rainfall may
increase or decrease slightly, the intensity of individual rainfall events is likely to increase during the 21st
century. It is possible that average soil moisture and runoff could decline, however, due to increasing
temperature, evapotranspiration rates, and spacing between rainfall events. Reduced snowpack and
increased number of intense rainfall events are likely to put additional pressure on water infrastructure
which could increase the chance of flooding associated with breaches or failures of flood control structures
such as levees and dams. Future precipitation projections were shown in Figure 4-12 in Section 4.2.3.
4.2.11. Localized Flooding Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
According to the City Planning Team, localized, stormwater flooding also occurs throughout the City.
Urban storm drainpipes and pump stations have a finite capacity. When rainfall exceeds this capacity, or
the system is clogged, water accumulates in the street until it reaches a level of overland release. This type
of flooding may occur when intense storms occur over areas of development.
Location
According to the City, numerous parcels and roads throughout Azusa not included in the FEMA 1% and
0.2% annual chance floodplains are subject to flooding in heavy rains. These are delineated in Table 4-66
in Section 4.3.9. In addition to flooding, damage to these areas during heavy storms includes pavement
deterioration, washouts, mudslides, debris areas, and downed trees. The frequency and type of damage or
flooding that occurs varies from year to year, depending on the quantity of runoff.
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Extent
There is no established scientific scale or measurement system for localized flooding. Localized flooding
is generally measured by depth of flooding and the area affected. Localized flooding often happens quickly
and has a short speed of onset. Localized flooding often has a short duration.
Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
There have been no state or federal disaster declarations related to localized flooding in the City of Azusa,
according to Table 4-3.
NCDC Events
The past occurrences of localized flooding are included in the 1%/0.2% annual chance flood hazard profile
in Section 4.2.10.
HMPC Events
The City noted that localized flooding occurs on a regular basis in areas of the City, though the severity
ranges from minor to moderate on a case-by-case basis. In 2017, severe storms caused flooding in areas in
the City. Encanto Parkway is the only street in the City that has sustained localized flooding recently. This
road was impacted with approximately 4 to 5 feet in depth of mud on a stretch of road approximately 300
feet in length. An example is shown in Figure 4-35.
Figure 4-35 2017 Encanto Parkway Flooding
Source: City of Azusa Public Works
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The City noted that following the Colby Fire, the City has been working collaboratively with neighboring
cities to install K-Rail concrete barriers prior to storm events to address storm-related flooding in fire-
burned areas.
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Highly Likely— Urban storm drainage systems have a finite capacity. When rainfall exceeds this capacity
or systems clog, water accumulates in the street until it reaches a level of overland release. Due to the
developed nature of the City, future development will not substantially alter the drainage pattern of the area,
and will not substantially increase the rate of surface run-off that will cause flooding on or off site. Although
the City is considered built out, due to aging infrastructure, this type of flooding will continue to occur
during heavy rains.
Climate Change and Localized Flood
While average annual rainfall may decrease slightly, the intensity of individual rainfall events is likely to
increase during the 21st century, increasing the likelihood of overwhelming stormwater systems built to
historical rainfall averages. This makes localized flooding more likely.
4.2.12. Landslides and Mudslides Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
Like its earthquake‐generating faults, California’s mountainous terrain is also a consequence of dynamic
geologic processes in operation as the North American Plate grinds past the Pacific Plate. The 2013 State
of California Hazard Mitigation Plan noted that more than one third of California is mountainous terrain
that generally trends parallel to the coast, forming a barrier that captures moisture from offshore storms
originating in the Gulf of Alaska and Mexico. This is true in the sloped areas of the Azusa foothills. Steep
topography, weak rocks, heavy winter rains, and occasional earthquakes all lead to slope failures more
frequently than would otherwise occur under gravity alone.
According to the CGS, a landslide is a general term for a variety of mass-movement processes that generate
a down-slope movement of mud, soil, rock, and/or vegetation. Landslides are classified into many different
types based on form and type of movement. They range from slow‐moving rotational slumps and earth
flows, which can slowly distress structures but are less threatening to personal safety, to fast‐moving rock
avalanches and debris flows that are a serious threat to structures and have been responsible for most
fatalities during landslide events. For the purposes of this plan, the term landslide includes mudslides,
debris flows, and rockfalls that tend to occur suddenly; as well as hillside erosion, which is a similar process
that tends to occur on smaller scales and more gradually, but can exacerbate landslide events.
Natural conditions that contribute to landslide, mudslides, hillside erosion, and debris flows include the
following:
➢ Degree of slope
➢ Water (heavy rain, river flows, or wave action)
➢ Unconsolidated soil or soft rock and sediments
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➢ Lack of vegetation (no stabilizing root structure)
➢ Previous wildfires and other forest disturbances
➢ Road building, excavation and grading
➢ Earthquake
Location
In addition, many human activities tend to make the earth materials less stable and, thus, increase the chance
of ground movement. Human activities contribute to soil instability through grading of steep slopes or
overloading them with artificial fill, by extensive irrigation, construction of impermeable surfaces,
excessive groundwater withdrawal, and removal of stabilizing vegetation. Wildfire burn areas are at risk
to erosion and landslide in areas near the City. According to the General Plan EIR, portions of Azusa near
the mountainous portions of the City are susceptible to landslides from potentially unstable slopes.
Destructive landslides, mudslides, and debris flows usually occur very suddenly with little or no warning
time and are short in duration. Slides have caused significant damage or destroyed homes, streets, and
utilities from their heaving soils and slow downslope development. The 2013 State Plan noted that although
the area affected by a single landslide is less than that of earthquakes, landslides are pervasive in
California’s mountainous terrain and occur far more often.
Figure 4-36 was included in the 2013 State of California Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. It indicates that
portions of the City are at moderate to high risk for landslides.
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Figure 4-36 Landslide Susceptibility Areas
Source: 2018 State of California Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan
Extent
The legend on Figure 4-36 shows the measurement system that the California Geological Survey uses to
show the possible magnitude of landslides. It is a combination of slope class and rock strength. The speed
of onset of landslide is often short, especially in post-wildfire burn scar areas, but it can also take years for
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a slope to fail. Landslide duration is usually short, though digging out and repairing landslide areas can
take some time.
Previous Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
There are no recorded federal and one recorded state disaster declarations directly related to landslides and
mudslides in LA County. The 1965 event did not have any effects on the City of Azusa. Table 4-3 also
contained events where landslides occurred, but were not the primary source of the disaster declaration.
These events are summarized below the table.
Table 4-28 Landslide Disaster Declarations in Los Angeles County from 1950-2017
Disaster Type Federal Declarations State Declarations
Count Years Count Years
Landslide 0 – 1 1965
Totals 0 – 1 –
Source: Cal OES, FEMA
➢ Federal Disaster Declarations
✓ DR-1005 in 1993 – Fires, Mud/Landslides, Flooding, Soil Erosion
✓ DR-1044 in 1995 – Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, Landslides, Mud Flows
✓ DR-1046 in 1995 – Severe Winter Storms, Flooding Landslides, Mud Flow
✓ DR-1585 in 2005 – Severe Storms, Flooding, Landslides, And Mud And Debris Flows
✓ DR-1884 in 2010 – Severe Winter Storms, Flooding, And Debris and Mud Flows
➢ State Disaster Declarations
✓ 1995 (issued for same event as DR-1044)
✓ 1995 (issued for same event as DR-1046)
✓ 2005 (issued for same event as DR-1585)
✓ 2010 (issued for same event as DR-1884)
NCDC Events
The NCDC contains no landslide or mudflow events that have affected Los Angeles County or the City of
Azusa.
HMPC Events
The City Planning Team noted that the primary concern of landslides and mudslides in the foothill areas of
the City are those that occur in sloped, post fire impacted areas. It was noted, that after the 2014 Colby
Fire, the City and other entities were proactive in preventing significant mudflows with a variety of
measures implemented to minimize impacts to the City with a focus on protecting the City’s water treatment
plant. The nearby City of Duarte was not so lucky; severe mudflows significantly impacted Duarte, while
mostly just threatening some areas of Azusa. As a result of the 2014 Colby Fire, the City of Azusa installed
over 2,000 linear feet of k-rail on City streets and within City complexes to protect from mud and debris
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flows. Again in 2017, after the San Gabriel fire, mudflows occurred in the foothills on the west side of the
river, with mud flowing down area roads.
Likelihood of Future Occurrences
Likely—Landslides in the form of debris flow, or mudslides, have occurred in the past in and near Azusa.
Landslides occur more frequently in the winter and spring months, when high levels of precipitation and
runoff combine with saturated soils, which leads to general slope instability. Landslides often can occur as
a result of other hazard events, such as severe storms, floods, wildfires, or earthquakes. Due to the
topography in and around Azusa and the rainfall the City receives during the winter, it is likely future
occurrences of landslide, mudslide, and debris flow will occur.
Climate Change and Landslide/Debris Flows
According to the CAS, increased precipitation may result from climate change. Increased precipitation
makes areas more vulnerable to landslide potential. More information on precipitation increases can be
found in Section 4.2.3.
4.2.13. Levee Failure Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
The FIS refers to a levee as a raised area that runs along the banks of a river or canal. Levees reinforce the
banks and help prevent flooding. By confining the flow, levees can also increase the speed of the water.
Levees can be natural or man-made. A natural levee is formed when sediment settles on the river bank,
raising the level of the land around the river. To construct a man-made levee, workers pile dirt or concrete
along the river banks, creating an embankment. This embankment is flat at the top, and slopes at an angle
down to the water. For added strength, sandbags are sometimes placed over dirt embankments.
Levees provide strong flood protection, but they are not failsafe. Levees are designed to protect against a
specific flood level and could be overtopped during severe weather events. Levees reduce, not eliminate,
the risk to individuals and structure behind them. Overtopping failure occurs when the flood water level
rises above the crest of a levee.
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Figure 4-37 Flooding from Levee Overtopping
Source: Levees In History: The Levee Challenge. Dr. Gerald E. Galloway, Jr., P.E., Ph.D., Water Policy Collaborative, University
of Maryland, Visiting Scholar, USACE, IWR.
http://www.floods.org/ace-files/leveesafety/lss_levee_history_galloway.ppt
Location
While levees exist in the western portion of the City along the San Gabrile River, t he 2016 FIS noted that
there are no levees in the City of Azusa that are certified as protecting against the 1% annual chance flood.
The FIS reports:
Results of the mapping study were not previously summarized in the effective FIS report for the City of Azusa;
therefore, no flood protection measures are provided.
Effectively, this means that the City’s flood problems have not been fully and accurately described by
FEMA. This goes to the level of protection provided by area levees. This does not mean that levee failure
is not an issue in the City. A search of the National Levee database does show leveed areas in the western
portion of the City along the banks of the San Gabriel River. This levee is operated and maintained by the
United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The stretch of levee in the City is known by the USACE
as the San Gabriel River 7 (SGR7) Levee System. A periodic inspection report for the levee was prepared
by the Los Angeles District in September of 2012. This is the most recent report available. Information
about the SGR7 levee system is captured below:
The SGR7 Levee System is located in the Cities of Azusa and Irwindale, in Los Angeles County, in the
State of California. The National Levee Database shows the SGR7 Levee System along the left (east) bank
of the San Gabriel River, from approximate Station 176+15 (D126+60) near San Gabriel Canyon Road
to approximate Station 80+25 (D28+50) located approximately 500 feet upstream of Drop Structure 1, for
a total length of 9,590 feet (1.82 miles) (see figure). However, as-built plans for the SGR7 Levee System
indicate that the levee continues just downstream of the Foothill Freeway (Interstate 210), in the Santa Fe
Dam Flood Control Basin to Station 8+40, for a total length of 16,775 feet (3.18 miles). This periodic
inspection report covers the longer SGR7 Levee System represented by the as-built plans.
The SGR7 Levee System is a trapezoidal channel with a natural bottom and grouted rock-revetted riverside
slopes. The SGR7 Levee System includes stone stabilizers, drop structures, bridge crossings, side-drainage
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structures, and a bicycle path on the crest. The SGR7 Levee System was federally authorized under the general
comprehensive plan for flood risk management (Flood Control Act of 22 June 1936, amended as of 18 October
1938) and subsequently constructed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Levee and
stone stabilizer construction was completed in 1948; drop structures were completed in 1969. It is operated and
maintained by the USACE.
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Figure 4-38 City of Azusa – San Gabriel 7 Levee System
Source: USACE – LA District
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During the inspection, the following deficiencies were observed and recorded:
➢ Boulder deposits and heavy vegetation growth in the channel invert may be impairing channel flow
capacity.
✓ Levee encroachments include:
A pump house that appears to be related to the nearby spreading grounds.
Two side-drainage structures that do not appear on available as-built plans and a permit could
not be located in USACE files.
A hole from a removed guard rail wood post extends more than 3.5 feet into the levee crest.
➢ Drop structure deficiencies include:
✓ Only one row of subdrain outlet pipes was observed at two of the drop structures. The second row
may be located below the concrete apron. This is not consistent with available design and as-built
plans.
✓ Some of the drop structure subdrain outlets are clogged with vegetation.
✓ Up to 16 inches of scour and a void under the concrete extending up to 26 inches horizontally was
observed at the downstream toe.
➢ Stone stabilizer deficiencies include:
✓ Up to 10 feet of scour was observed on the downstream side of the stone stabilizers.
✓ Vegetation growing in and adjacent to the grouted stone stabilizers.
The Periodic Inspection report gave the SGR7 levees a grade of minimally acceptable.
An engineering determination concluded that the observed deficiencies would not prevent the system from
performing as intended during the next flood event. Therefore, the Levee Safety Officer, Los Angeles District,
has determined the overall system rating to be “Minimally Acceptable.”
A “Minimally Acceptable” system rating is defined as: “One or more items are rated as Minimally Acceptable
or one or more items are rated as Unacceptable and an engineering determination concludes that the
Unacceptable items would not prevent the segment/system from performing as intended during the next flood
event.”
Extent
There is not a scientific scale or measurement system in place for levee failure. Maps showing inundation
extents and depths due to a levee failure in the City do not exist. The speed of onset is slow as the river
rises, but if a levee fails the warning times are short for those in the inundation area. The duration of levee
failure risk times can be hours to weeks, depending on the river flows that the levee holds back.
Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
There have been no federal or state disaster declarations related to levee failure, as shown in Table 4-3.
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NCDC Events
There are no recorded levee failure events in the NCDC database for Azusa or Los Angeles County.
HMPC Events
The HMPC noted that there have been no past occurrences of levee failure.
Likelihood of Future Occurrences
Occasional – Given that there are no past occurrences of levee failure in the City, levee failure is unlikely.
The levees in the City are assisted in flood protection by the dams upstream. However, if the levees are not
maintained over time or a dam failure occurs, likelihood of future occurrence may increase.
Climate Change and Levee Failure
According to the CAS, increased precipitation in the County could result in the possible overtopping of
levees. This may be more true in Azusa, where the levees are not certified to provide a 1% annual chance
flooding level of protection. Should increased precipitation cause dams to fail, the levees that protect the
City would most likely fail as well.
4.2.14. Wildfire Hazard Profile
Hazard/Problem Description
According to the 2016 Los Angeles County Strategic Fire Plan, wildland fire is an ongoing concern for Los
Angeles County and Azusa. Generally, the fire season can be year around, with the more extreme portions
of the season extending from early spring through late fall of each year during the hotter, dryer months.
Drought may extend the fire season in Los Angeles County. Fire conditions arise from a combination of
high temperatures, low moisture content in the air and fuel, accumulation of vegetation, and high winds.
Wildland Urban Interface
Throughout California, communities are increasingly concerned about wildfire safety as increased
development in the foothills and mountain areas and subsequent fire suppression practices have affected
the natural cycle of the ecosystem. While wildfire risk is predominantly associated with wildland urban
interface (WUI) areas, significant wildfires can also occur in heavily populated areas. The wildland urban
interface is a general term that applies to development adjacent to landscapes that support wildland fire.
Wildland fires affect grass, forest, and brushlands, as well as any structures located within them.
WUI fires are often the most damaging. WUI fires occur where the natural forested landscape and urban‐
built environment meet or intermix. Even relatively small acreage fires may result in disastrous damages.
The damages can be widely varying, but are primarily reported as damage to infrastructure, built
environment, loss of socio‐economic values and injuries to people.
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The pattern of increased damages is directly related to increased urban spread into historical forested areas
that have wildfire as part of the natural ecosystem. Many WUI fire areas have long histories of wildland
fires that burned only vegetation in the past. However, with new development, a wildland fire following a
historical pattern may now burn these newly developed areas. WUI fires can occur where there is a distinct
boundary between the built and natural areas or where development or infrastructure has encroached or is
intermixed in the natural area. WUI fires may include fires that occur in remote areas that have critical
infrastructure easements through them, including electrical transmission towers, railroads, water reservoirs,
communications relay sites or other infrastructure assets.
Potential losses from wildfire include human life, structures and other improvements, natural and cultural
resources, quality and quantity of water supplies, cropland, timber, and recreational opportunities.
Economic losses could also result. Smoke and air pollution from wildfires can be a severe health hazard.
Also of significant concern to the City are the secondary impacts associated with a large burn area.
Problems occur with landslides, debris flows, erosion, and other issues that lead to a significant loss of
watershed. These problems can be compounded by climate conditions.
Consequently, wildland fires that burn in natural settings with little or no development are part of a natural
ecological cycle and may actually be beneficial to the landscape. Century old policies of fire exclusion and
aggressive suppression have given way to better understanding of the importance fire plays in the natural
cycle of certain forest types.
Warning times are usually adequate to ensure public safety, provided that evacuation recommendations and
orders are heeded in a timely manner. While in most cases wildfires are contained within a week or two of
outbreak, in certain cases, they have been known to burn for months, or until they are completely
extinguished by fall rains.
Location
Fire conditions arise from a combination of hot weather, an accumulation of vegetation, and low moisture
content in the air. These conditions when combined with high winds and years of drought increase the
potential for a wildfire to occur. Urban wildfires often occur in those areas where developme nt has
expanded into the rural areas – the WUI areas along the San Gabriel Mountains. A fire along this
urban/rural interface can result in major losses of property and structures. Cal Fire’s Fire Hazard Severity
Zones discussed later in the wildfire vulnerability (Section 4.3.12) identifies those areas of the City most
vulnerable to wildfire.
Generally, there are three major factors that sustain wildfires and all ow for predictions of a given area’s
potential to burn. These factors include fuel, topography, and weather.
➢ Fuel—Fuel is the material that feeds a fire and is a key factor in wildfire behavior. Fuel is generally
classified by type and by volume. Fuel sources are diverse and include everything from dead tree
needles and leaves, twigs, and branches to dead standing trees, live trees, brush, and cured grasses.
Fuel plays a major role in fire behavior and potential fire hazards. A fuel’s composition, including
moisture level, chemical make-up, and density, determines its degree of flammability. Of these, fuel
moisture level is the most important consideration. Generally, live trees contain a great deal of moisture
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while dead logs contain very little. The moisture content and distribution of fuels define how quickly
a fire can spread and how intense or hot it may become. High moisture content will slow the burning
process since heat from the fire must first eliminate moisture. In addition to moisture, a fuel’s chemical
makeup determines how readily it will burn. Some plants, shrubs, and trees such as chamise and
eucalyptus contain oils or resins that promote combustion, causing them to burn more easily, quickly,
and intensely. Finally, the density of a fuel influences its flammability; when fuels are close together
but not too dense, they will ignite each other, causing the fuel to spread readily. However, if fuels are
so close that air cannot circulate easily, the fuel will not burn freely. Fuels are limited in the City,
except in the northern areas where the topography changes.
➢ Topography—An area’s terrain and land slopes affect its susceptibility to wildfire spread. Both fire
intensity and rate of spread increase as slope increases due to the tendency of heat from a fire to rise
via convection. The arrangement of vegetation throughout a hillside can also contribute to increased
fire activity on slopes. Azusa is topographically diverse, with both valley and foothills of the San
Gabriel Mountains inside the City limits.
➢ Weather—Weather components such as temperature, relative humidity, wind, and lightning also affect
the potential for wildfire. The main weather patterns associated with severe wildfire in this area are
lightning, which is common with summer thunderstorms, and the Santa Ana Wind, a warm, dry wind
that blows from the north and northeast over the mountains from the desert, typically occurring in the
autumn, further drying the vegetation. Previous fires have attested to the extensive damage that can
take place from brush fires. Drought conditions contribute to concerns about wildfire vulnerability.
During periods of drought, the threat of wildfire increases.
While many wildfires cause minimal damage to the land and pose few threats to the land or people
downstream, some fires cause damage that requires special efforts to prevent problems afterwards. Loss of
vegetation exposes soil to erosion; water runoff may increase and cause flooding; sediments may move
downstream and damage houses or fill reservoirs putting endangered species and community water supplies
at risk.
After a fire the first priority is emergency stabilization in order to prevent further damage to life, property
or natural resources. The stabilization work begins before the fire is out and may continue for up to a year.
The longer-term rehabilitation effort to repair damage caused by the fire begins after the fire is out and
continues for several years. Rehabilitation focuses on the lands unlikely to recover naturally from wildland
fire damage.
Extent
Wildfires tend to be measured in structure damages, injuries, and loss of life as well as on acres burned.
Fires can have a quick speed of onset, especially during periods of drought. Fires can burn for a short
period of time, or may have durations lasting for a week or more. CAL FIRE maps the extent of wildfires
in the City. This map can be seen Figure 4-62 later in this plan.
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Past Occurrences
Disaster Declaration History
There have been 43 federal and 19 state disaster declaration events that have occurred in Los Angeles
County. These are shown in Table 4-29.
Table 4-29 Los Angeles County Wildfire Disaster Declaration History 1950 to 2017
Disaster Type Federal Declarations State Declarations
Count Years Count Years
Fire 43 1956, 1961, 1970, 1978, 1980,
1985, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1996,
2002 (three times), 2003 (three
times), 2004 (three times), 2005,
2007 (eight times), 2008 (six
times), 2009 (twice), 2010, 2013,
2014, 2016 (four times)
19 1958, 1964, 1970, 1973, 1975,
1976, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1982,
1985, 1988 (twice), 1990, 1992,
1996 (twice), 2003, 2008
Totals 43 – 19 –
Source: Cal OES, FEMA
NCDC Events
The NCDC data recorded 48 wildfire related incidents for Los Angeles County since 1950. A summary of
these events is shown in Table 4-30. Information about specific events that affected or came close to
affecting Azusa are detailed below the table.
Table 4-30 NCDC Wildfire Events in Los Angeles County 1950 to 12/31/2016
Event Type Number
of Events
Deaths Injuries Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
Deaths
(indirect)
Injuries
(indirect)
Wildfire 48 0 46 $99,800,000 $0 0 2
Source: NCDC
➢ August 29 to September 5, 1999 – A wildfire developed in the Angeles National Forest, north of
Glendora. By the end of August, the fire had already burned over 2,000 acres and was not contained.
The fire was extinguished before it threatened Azusa. As this fire was being fought, the Br idge Fire
occurred in Glendora. The Bridge Fire, which started in late August, was finally contained. The wildfire
burned 7.234 acres in the Angeles National Forest. No injuries, deaths, or damages resulted from either
fire.
➢ September 1 to 12, 2002 – The Curve Fire burned 20,857 acres of land in the Angeles National Forest.
The Curve Fire, which was caused by candles from a ritual sacrifice, destroyed 73 structures and injured
at least 14 people. No deaths were reported. In all, $12.7 million in damages was attributed to this fire.
➢ September 22 to 30, 2002 – The Williams Fire burned 38.094 acres of land in the Angeles National
Forest. This fire, which was located about 25 miles north of Azusa, destroyed 77 structures, including
62 cabins. 14 injuries were reported, but not deaths occurred. In all, $15.3 million in damages was
attributed to this fire.
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➢ January 16 to 25, 2016 – The Colby Wildfire started in the hills above the San Gabriel Valley in nearby
Glendora (see image). The fire was fueled by the combination of an extended period of dry, northeast
winds and very dry vegetation. The fire destroyed 5 homes and burned 1,952 acres.
Source: Wildfire Today
➢ July 1 to 7, 2016 – The San Gabriel Complex, which started in late June, was finally contained in early
July. In total, the fire burned 5,399 acres in the mountains of Los Angeles County. More information
on this fire can be found in the section below.
CAL FIRE Events
CAL FIRE, USDA Forest Service Region 5, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the Natio nal Park
Service (NPS), Contract Counties and other agencies jointly maintain a comprehensive fire perimeter GIS
layer for public and private lands throughout the state. The data covers fires back to 1878 (though the first
recorded incident for the County was in 1950). For the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management,
and US Forest Service, fires of 10 acres and greater are reported. For CAL FIRE, timber fires greater than
10 acres, brush fires greater than 50 acres, grass fires greater than 300 acres, and fires that destroy three or
more residential dwellings or commercial structures are reported. CAL FIRE recognizes the various
federal, state, and local agencies that have contributed to this dataset, including USDA Forest Service
Region 5, BLM, National Park Service, and numerous local agencies.
Fires may be missing altogether or have missing or incorrect attribute data. Some fires may be missing
because historical records were lost or damaged, fires were too small for the minimum cutoffs,
documentation was inadequate, or fire perimeters have not yet been incorporated into the database. Also,
agencies are at different stages of participation. For these reasons, the data should not be used for statistical
or analytical purposes.
The data provides a reasonable view of the spatial distribution of past large fires in California. Using GIS,
fire perimeters that intersect the City of Azusa or that threatened the City were extracted and are shown in
Figure 4-39 and listed in Table 4-31. Table 4-31 lists each fire’s date, name, and acreage burned in the City
and Los Angeles County.
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Figure 4-39 Azusa – Wildfire History 1905 to 2016
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Table 4-31 Azusa and Los Angeles County – Wildfire History 1905 to 2016
Year Name Acres Alarm Date Containment Date
1924 San Gabriel 43,050 8/31/1924 –
1947 Azusa No. 112 351 7/4/1947 –
1909 – 19 – –
1909 – 20 – –
1946 Beatty No. 209 159 9/27/1946
1943 Azusa Fire No. 42 188 5/19/1943 –
1942 Hiyon #135/Vantasell 184 8/26/1942 –
1928 Brush Flats No. 12 241 5/6/1928 –
1929 Rock Pit No. 46 145 6/21/1929 –
1929 Bonita No. 28 145 5/29/1929 –
1968 Canyon Inn Fire 19,056 8/23/1968 –
1968 Newman Fire 67 7/20/1968 –
1923 – 119 – –
1974 – 8 7/1/1974 –
1968 – 47 7/5/1968 –
1968 – 26 7/27/1968 –
1958 – 67 9/1/1958 –
1958 – 13,944 10/2/1958 –
1980 Stable Fire 6,049 11/15/1980 –
1960 – 9 10/21/1960 –
1982 – 29 7/30/1982 –
1982 – 1 7/4/1982 –
1952 Baird Fire 138 8/25/1952 –
1950 – 18 7/30/1950 –
1979 Silver Fish Fire 154 7/14/1979 –
1959 – 119 6/18/1959 –
1961 – 257 9/6/1961 –
1962 – 861 7/8/1962 –
1975 Star Pine Fire 115 9/19/1975 –
1989 – 3 9/16/1989 –
1997 Canyon Ii Fire 3825 7/1/1997 –
1988 – 28 6/10/1988 –
1994 Oldsangabriel Cyn Rd 3 8/8/1994 –
1997 Roberts 5 3/13/1997 3/13/1997
1998 Foothill 9 7/10/1998 7/10/1998
1996 Reservoir 1,466 8/24/1996 8/28/1996
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Year Name Acres Alarm Date Containment Date
2002 Williams 38,119 9/22/2002 10/10/2002
1932 Tunnel 31 7/12/1932 –
1918 Fish Canyon 51 10/1/1918 –
1953 Maddock 558 7/7/1953 –
1957 Morris 2,789 9/8/1957 –
1952 Spinks 179 8/25/1952 –
1916 Duarte 179 7/31/1916 –
2012 Reservoir 7 11/14/2012 –
2013 Madre 210 9/23/2013 9/27/2013
2013 Shooting 10 8/27/2013 8/27/2013
2014 Colby 1,952 1/16/2014 1/21/2014
Source: CAL FIRE
HMPC Events
The 2016 San Gabriel Fire that burned 5,381 acres near the City of Azusa. The fire started as two individual
fires (Fish Fire above Duarte and the Reservoir Fire above Azusa) that merged to become the San Gabriel
Complex fire. The Reservoir Fire began following a fatal crash involving a pickup truck that went over the
side of Highway 39 near Morris Dam. Residents in the foothills above Azusa and Duarte who were
evacuated, and Highway 39 was closed. At the height of the fire, 1,376 homes were evacuated. The
planning team noted that this fire was particularly intense due to the dead vegetation caused by recent
drought conditions. Also as a result of this fire, the planning team noted that post fire mudslides occurred
in fire impacted areas.
The City also noted that with the drought and increased temperatures in recent years, the wildfire hazard is
becoming a year around issue. The recent Colby fire occurred in January 2014. Recollections from a
member of the planning team are:
The Colby Wildfire, began during a Red Flag Santa Ana wind event on the day of the fire. These winds are
characterized by warm temperatures, low relative humidity, and increased wind speeds. The combination of
wind, heat and dryness turns the chaparral into explosive fuel. The Colby Fire began at approximately 6:00
AM on January 16, 2014 in the Colby Canyon area which is located in the foothills north of Glendora. The
fire quickly spread throughout the canyon in Glendora destroying homes, and damaging others. As the fire
quickly grew in size aided by a westerly breeze, the Azusa Police Department received requests for assistance
from the Glendora Police Department to help with evacuations in Glendora. Unfortunately, at 7:00 AM, one
hour from the start of the fire, emergency personnel advised that the fire had crossed a ridgeline bordering
Glendora and Azusa, and that the fire would soon be threatening homes in the foothill communities of Azusa.
In the first hour from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM the Azusa Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated.
As the fire continued to spread west along the foothills, the Evacuation Warning Siren located in Azusa canyon
was activated to give the foothill community residents notification that an emergency was occurring and
evacuations were possible. At 9:00 AM the Azusa EOC was advised that the fire department was setting up
a staging area at Azusa and Sierra Madre and that Hwy 39 was now closed. The EOC was advised by the
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fire department that an evacuation of the foothill communities was now mandatory. Over the next 1½ hours,
officers from the Azusa Police Department along with officers from five surrounding agencies evacuated
approximately 870 homes totaling nearly 2,000 residents.
The protection of the evacuation areas from 10:00 AM on Thursday, January 16th until a partial lifting of
the evacuation at 4:00 PM on Friday, January 17th required 18 officers to properly protect the evacuation
areas and manage street closures, with an additional 8 officers assigned to patrolling duties and relief.
Mandatory evacuation orders remained for the community of Mountain Cove From 4:00 PM on Friday,
January 17th through 6:00 PM on Saturday, January 18th. During this operational period 12 officers were
required for street closures, and for patrolling the Mountain Cove area. During the second and third days of
the evacuation orders, the Azusa Police Department needed to coordinate numerous police escorts for residents
to their homes for medications and essential items. The community of Mountain Cove was reopened to residents
on Saturday, January 18th at 6:00 PM. On that same date and time the Azusa Emergency Operations
Center (EOC) and the Azusa Police Department command post were deactivated.
During the operational period of the fire on January 16th through the end of the evacuations two days later, a
total of 79 police officers from surrounding agencies were assigned to assist the Azusa Police Department and
it’s officers with evacuations, traffic control and security of the impacted areas. Although no civilian or emergency
personnel lives were lost during this fire. There was over 1,950 acres burned, at a cost of nearly $7,000,000
to fight the fire, with hundreds of homes being saved by the heroic and humble actions of the Los Angeles County
Fire Department, U.S. Forest Service, CAL FIRE, Azusa and Glendora Police Departments, and all of
our Mutual Aid fire and law enforcement partners. The overtime costs to the Azusa Police Department alone
for this event was $35,389.
Approximately six weeks after the Colby Fire, a severe storm/rain system moved into Los Angeles County
and Azusa. This system had periods of heavy rain over two days. Water and mud from the burn areas flowed
out of the hillsides and into residential areas causing damage to homes and mandatory evacuations. Once again,
many residents had their lives inconvenienced and disrupted due to the Colby Fire and resulting flooding event.
In anticipation of possible flooding and mudslides, the City of Azusa Department of Public Works lined the
streets of residential neighborhoods and a city owned water treatment plant in potential mudflow areas with
concrete K-rails to divert flood waters and mud. This preventative measure was done at a cost to the city of
$70,309.
Likelihood of Future Occurrence
Likely—The season when wildfire is most likely to occur generally runs from late April through October,
but can occur at any time. This is due to hot, dry conditions during this time of year. Drought, lightning,
Santa Ana winds, and other fire weather can increase the likelihood of wildfire in the City each year.
Climate Change and Wildfire
According to the CAS, warmer temperature can exacerbate drought conditions. Drought often kills plants,
which serve as fuel for wildfires. Warmer temperatures could increa se the number of wildfires and pest
outbreaks, such as the western pine beetle.
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The 2016 CAL FIRE Strategic Fire Plan noted that recent research indicates higher summer temperatures
will likely increase the annual window of high fire risk. Future changes in fire frequency and severity are
difficult to predict; however, regional climate change associated with elevated greenhouse gas
concentrations could alter large weather patterns and produce conditions conducive to extreme fire
behavior. A warmer climate will bring drier winters, higher spring temperatures, and early snowmelt.
Combined with drought conditions, this leads to drier soils in early summer, drier vegetation, and an
increase in the number of days in the year with flammable fuels, all which further raise the likelihood of
fires.
Further, according to the California Adaptation Planning Guide: Understanding Regional Characteristics,
a slight increase in fire occurrence is projected for the South Coast Region. While the fire risk is only
anticipated to increase moderately, it is the increases in fire damages that are projected due to high
populations in fire vulnerable areas. In addition to direct impacts and damages to property and
infrastructure from fire, other impacts include temporary or permanent displacement of affected populations
and increase in respiratory illnesses due to air pollution resulting from wildfires.
4.2.15. Natural Hazards Summary
Table 4-32 summarizes the results of the hazard identification and hazard profile for the City based on the
hazard identification data and input from the HMPC. For each hazard profiled in Section 4.2, this table
includes the likelihood of future occurrence and whether the hazard is initially considered a priority hazard
for the City based on the hazard profiles.
Table 4-32 Hazard Identification and Initial Determination of Priority Hazards
Hazard Likelihood of Future
Occurrence
Priority Hazard
Climate Change Likely N
Dam Failure Unlikely Y
Drought and Water Shortage Likely Y
Earthquake Likely Y
Earthquake Liquefaction Occasional Y
Flood: 100/500–year Occasional/ Unlikely Y
Flood: Localized/Stormwater Highly Likely Y
Landslide and Mudslides Likely N
Levee Failure Unlikely Y
Severe Weather: Extreme Heat Highly Likely N
Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms Highly Likely Y
Severe Weather: High Winds Highly Likely N
Wildfire Likely Y
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4.3 Vulnerability Assessment
Requirement §201.6(c)(2)(ii): [The risk assessment shall include a] description of the jurisdiction’s
vulnerability to the hazards described in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section. This description shall
include an overall summary of each hazard and its impact on the community.
Requirement §201.6(c)(2)(ii)(A): The plan should describe vulnerability in terms of the types and
numbers of existing and future buildings, infrastructure, and critical facilities located in the
identified hazard areas.
Requirement §201.6(c)(2)(ii)(B): [The plan should describe vulnerability in terms of an] estimate of
the potential dollar losses to vulnerable structures identified in paragraph (c)(2)(i)(A) of this section
and a description of the methodology used to prepare the estimate.
Requirement §201.6(c)(2)(ii)(C): [The plan should describe vulnerability in terms of] providing a
general description of land uses and development trends within the community so that mitigation
options can be considered in future land use decisions.
With Azusa’s hazards identified and profiled, the HMPC conducted a vulnerability assessment to describe
the impact that each priority hazard would have on the City. The vulnerability assessment quantifies, to
the extent feasible using best available data, assets at risk to natural hazards and estimates potential losses.
This vulnerability assessment followed the methodology described in the FEMA publication
Understanding Your Risks—Identifying Hazards and Estimating Losses. The vulnerability assessment first
describes the total vulnerability of the City and values at risk and then discusses vulnerability by hazard.
Data Sources
Data used to support this vulnerability assessment included the following:
➢ ArkStorm at Tahoe - Stakeholder Perspectives on Vulnerabilities and Preparedness for an Extreme
Storm Event in the Greater Lake Tahoe, Reno and Carson City Region. 2014.
➢ CAL FIRE GIS datasets
➢ CAL FIRE GIS datasets
➢ Cal OES Dam Inundation datasets
➢ Cal-Adapt
➢ California Adaptation Planning Guide
➢ California Department of Finance, E-1 Report
➢ California Department of Finance, E-4 Report
➢ California Department of Finance, P-1 Report
➢ California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Natural Diversity Database
➢ California Department of Food and Agriculture
➢ California Division of Mines and Geology
➢ California Native Plant Society
➢ California Office of Historic Preservation
➢ City of Azusa General Plan Background Report
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➢ City of Azusa General Plan Environmental Impact Report
➢ City of Azusa General Plan.
➢ City of Azusa GIS data
➢ City of Azusa Housing Element 2014-2021
➢ City of Azusa Housing Element Initial Study
➢ City staff
➢ Dhammakaya Specific Plan
➢ Existing plans and studies
➢ FEMA Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map. January 16, 2016.
➢ FEMA Los Angeles County Flood Insurance Study. January 16, 2016.
➢ FEMA’s HAZUS-MH 2.2 GIS-based inventory data
➢ Kenward, Alyson PhD, Adams-Smith, Dennis, and Raja, Urooj. Wildfires and Air Pollution – The
Hidden Health Hazards of Climate Change. Climate Central. 2013.
➢ Liu, J.C., Mickley, L.J., Sulprizio, M.P. et al. Climatic Change. 138: 655. doi:10.1007/s10584-016-
1762-6. 2016.
➢ Los Angeles County Community Wildfire Protection Plan
➢ Los Angeles County GIS data (hazards and base layers)
➢ Los Angeles County Parcel and Assessor’s Data
➢ National Drought Mitigation Center – Drought Impact Reporter
➢ National Levee Database
➢ National Park Service – Historic American Buildings Survey and Historic American Engineering
Record
➢ Personal interviews and discussions with planning team members and staff from the City
➢ Personal interviews with planning team members and staff from the County and participating
jurisdictions
➢ Public Health Alliance of Southern California
➢ State Department of Water Resource’s Delta Atlas
➢ Statewide GIS datasets from other agencies such as Cal OES, FEMA, USGS, CGS, Cal Atlas, and
others
➢ TOD Specific Plan
➢ US Census Bureau 2010 Household Population Estimates
➢ US Fish and Wildlife Service
➢ US Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Wetlands Inventory maps
➢ USFS GIS datasets
➢ Written descriptions of inventory and risks provided by Azusa
4.3.1. Azusa’s Vulnerability and Assets at Risk
As a starting point for analyzing the City’s vulnerability to identified hazards, the HMPC used a variety of
data to define a baseline against which all disaster impacts could be compared. If a catastrophic disaster
was to occur in the City, this section describes significant assets at risk. Data and analysis used in this
baseline assessment included:
➢ General City vulnerability data
➢ Total values at risk;
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➢ City critical facilities;
➢ Natural, cultural, and historical resources; and
➢ Growth and development trends.
Total Values at Risk
Parcel Inventory and Assessed Values
This analysis captures the values associated with assessed assets located within the City of Azusa. The
2017 City of Azusa GIS parcel layer combined with the Los Angeles County assessor data, obtained from
the Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office, was used for as the basis of this analysis. This data provided
by the City of Azusa represents best available data.
Understanding the total assessed value of the City of Azusa is a starting point to understanding the overall
value of identified assets at risk in the City. When the total assessed values are combined with potential
values associated with other community assets such as public and private critical infrastructure, historic and
cultural resources, and natural resources, the big picture emerges as to what is potentially at risk and
vulnerable to the damaging effects of natural hazards within the City.
Methodology
Los Angeles County’s 2017 Assessor Data and the City’s GIS parcel data were used as the basis for the
inventory of assessed values for both improved and unimproved parcels within the City. This data provides
the land and improved values assessed for each parcel, along with key information such as property use.
Other GIS data, such as jurisdictional boundaries, roads, streams, and area features, was also obtained from
the City to support mapping and analysis of City assets at risk. The City of Azusa GIS parcel data contained
10,511 parcels, and 9,910 parcels of those we determined to be within the City of Azusa jurisdictional
boundary.
Data Limitations & Notations
Although based on best available data, the resulting information should only be used as an initial guide to
overall values in the City. In the event of a disaster, structures and other infrastructure improvements are
at the greatest risk of damage. Depending on the type of hazard and resulting damages, the land itself may
not suffer a significant loss. For that reason, the values of structures and other infrastructure improvements
are of greatest concern. As such, it is critical to note a specific limitation to the assessed values data within
the City, created by Proposition 13. Instead of adjusting property values annually, no adjustments are made
until a property transfer occurs. As a result, overall property value information is most likely low and may
not reflect current market or true potential loss values for properties within the City.
Property Use Categories
Los Angeles County Assessor Use Codes provide detailed descriptive information about how each property
is generally used, such as residential, commercial, or industrial. The Use Codes were categorized into the
following property use categories found within the Los Angeles County Assessor data: Residential,
Commercial, Industrial, Irrigated Farm, Dry Farm, Recreational, Institutional, Miscellaneous, and
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Government. Since the City of Azusa is the only jurisdiction participating in the LHMP, the Use Codes
were refined a step further to better reflect assessed assets specific to the City. The final property use
categories for the City of Azusa include:
➢ Commercial
➢ Government
➢ Industrial
➢ Institutional
➢ Miscellaneous
➢ Residential
➢ Open – No Use Code
Agriculture was eliminated as a category as there were no parcels with this Use Code within the City of
Azusa. Once Use Codes were grouped into categories, the number of total and improved parcels and land
and improved values were inventoried for the City by property use.
Estimated Content Replacement Values
Azusa’s assigned property use categories were used to develop estimated content replacement values
(CRVs) that are potentially at loss from hazards. FEMA’s standard CRV factors were utilized to develop
more accurate loss estimates for all mapped hazard analyses. FEMA’s CRV factors estimate value as a
percent of improved structure value by property use. Table 4-33 shows the breakdown of the different
property uses in Azusa and their estimated CRV factors.
Table 4-33 City of Azusa– Content Replacement Factors by Property Use
Azusa Property Use Categories Hazus Property Use
Categories
Hazus Content
Replacement Values
Commercial Commercial 100%
Government Government 100%
Industrial Industrial 150%
Institutional Institutional 100%
Miscellaneous Miscellaneous 100%
Residential Residential 50%
Unknown / Open – No Use Code Unknown 0%
Source: Hazus
Azusa Values at Risk Results
Values associated with land, and improved structure values were identified and summed in order to
determine total assessed values at risk in the City of Azusa. Together, the land value and improved structure
value make up the majority of assessed values associated with each identified parcel or asset. Improved
parcel counts were based on the assumption that a parcel was improved if a structure value was present.
Information on other values such as personal property values were not readily available for inclusion in this
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effort. Table 4-34 is a summary table that shows the total values or exposure for the City of Azusa by
property use.
Table 4-34 Azusa – Total Values by Property Use Summary
Property Use Total Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure Value
Total Value
Commercial 398 279 $204,409,978 $138,227,311 $342,637,289
Government 141 4 $7,618,863 $309,405 $7,928,268
Industrial 410 340 $256,963,411 $289,020,763 $545,984,174
Institutional 38 37 $35,004,711 $127,123,113 $162,127,824
Miscellaneous 94 23 $13,153,328 $3,247,536 $16,400,864
Residential 8,535 8,082 $1,411,593,484 $1,376,729,016 $2,788,322,500
Open - No Use
Code
294 0 $0 $0 $0
Grand Total 9,910 8,765 $1,928,743,775 $1,934,657,144 $3,863,400,919
Source: City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
Table 4-35 shows the total values of the City as shown in Table 4-34, but with estimated content
replacement values (CRVs) included (using CRV multipliers from Table 4-33). This table is important as
potential losses to the City include structure contents. In addition, loss estimates contained in the hazard
vulnerability sections below will use calculations based on the total values in Table 4-35.
Table 4-35 Azusa – Total Values by Property Use with Content Replacement Values
Property Use Total Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents
Value
Total Value
Commercial 398 279 $204,409,978 $138,227,311 $138,227,311 $480,864,600
Government 141 4 $7,618,863 $309,405 $309,405 $8,237,673
Industrial 410 340 $256,963,411 $289,020,763 $433,531,145 $979,515,319
Institutional 38 37 $35,004,711 $127,123,113 $127,123,113 $289,250,937
Miscellaneous 94 23 $13,153,328 $3,247,536 $3,247,536 $19,648,400
Residential 8,535 8,082 $1,411,593,484 $1,376,729,016 $688,364,508 $3,476,687,008
Open - No
Use Code
294 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Grand Total 9,910 8,765 $1,928,743,775 $1,934,657,144 $1,390,803,018 $5,254,203,937
Source: City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
Critical Facilities
For purposes of this plan, a critical facility is defined as:
Any facility, including without limitation, a structure, infrastructure, property, equipment or service, that if
adversely affected during a hazard event may result in severe consequences to public health and safety or
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interrupt essential services and operations for the community at any time before, during and after the hazard
event.
A critical facility is classified by the following categories: (1) Essential Services Facilities (2) At-risk
Populations Facilities, and (3) Hazardous Materials Facilities.
➢ Essential Services Facilities include, without limitation, public safety, emergency response, emergency
medical, designated emergency shelters, communications, public utility plant facilities and equipment,
and government operations. Sub-Categories:
✓ Public Safety - Police stations, fire and rescue stations, emergency operations centers
✓ Emergency Response - Emergency vehicle and equipment storage and essential governmental work
centers for continuity of government operations.
✓ Emergency Medical - Hospitals, emergency care, urgent care, ambulance services.
✓ Designated Emergency Shelters
✓ Communications - Main hubs for telephone, main broadcasting equipment for television systems,
radio and other emergency warning systems.
✓ Public Utility Plant Facilities - including equipment for treatment, generation, storage, pumping
and distribution (hubs for water, wastewater, power and gas.
✓ Essential Government Operations - Public records, courts, jails, building permitting and inspection
services, government administration and management, maintenance and equipment centers.
➢ At Risk Population Facilities include, without limitation, pre-schools, public and private primary and
secondary schools, before and after school care centers with 12 or more students, daycare centers with
12 or more children, group homes, and assisted living residential or congregate care facilities with 12
or more residents.
➢ Hazardous Materials Facilities include, without limitation, any facility that could, if adversely
impacted, release of hazardous material(s) in sufficient amounts during a hazard event that would create
harm to people, the environment and property.
A fully detailed list of all critical facilities in the planning are can be found in Appendix E. A summary of
critical facilities in the County can be found in Figure 4-40 and Table 4-36.
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Figure 4-40 Azusa – Critical Facility Inventory
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Table 4-36 Azusa – Critical Facility Inventory
Facility Name Facility Count
Essential Services
210 Freeway Overpass 1
Azusa Public Works 1
City Hall 1
Fire Station 32 1
Fire Station 97 1
Police 1
Railroad Overpass 1
Essential Services Total 7
At Risk Populations
Azusa High School 1
Azusa Montessori Academy 1
Christbridge Academy 1
Dalton Elementary 1
Edgewood Center 1
Foothill Middle School 1
Gladstone Street Elementary 1
Hodge Elementary 1
Lee Elementary 1
Light & Life Christian School 1
Little Gems Learning & Daycare 1
Magnolia Elementary 1
Mountain View Elementary 1
Murray Elementary 1
Paramount Elementary 1
Saint Frances of Rome School 1
Silverado Sierra Vista Car Community 1
Slauson Middle School 1
Soldano Senior Village 1
Valleydale Elementary 1
WR Powell Elementary 1
At Risk Populations Total 21
Hazardous Materials Facilities
Azusa Land Reclamation 1
IDR Environmental Services 1
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Facility Name Facility Count
Waste Management 1
Hazardous Materials Facilities Total 3
Grand Total 31
Source: City of Azusa GIS
Natural, Historical, and Cultural Resources
Assessing the vulnerability of the City to disaster also involves inventorying the natural, historic, and
cultural assets of the area. This step is important for the following reasons:
➢ The community may decide that these types of resources warrant a greater degree of protection due to
their unique and irreplaceable nature and contribution to the overall economy.
➢ If these resources are impacted by a disaster, knowing so ahead of time allows for more prudent care
in the immediate aftermath, when the potential for additional impacts are higher.
➢ The rules for reconstruction, restoration, rehabilitation, and/or replacement are often different for these
types of designated resources.
➢ Natural resources can have beneficial functions that reduce the impacts of natural hazards, such as
wetlands and riparian habitat, which help absorb and attenuate floodwaters.
Natural Resources
The majority of Azusa is urbanized. Relatively natural vegetation communities and habitats for wildlife are
largely limited to the remaining undeveloped floodplain of the San Gabriel River and tributaries including
Van Tassel Canyon, upper Fish Canyon, Roberts Canyon, and the upland foothill areas of the San Gabriel
Mountains that occur in the northern portion of the City. Approximately 40 percent of the City is draped
in the greens, grays, and purples of coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and woodlands growing on the rugged
slopes and foothill valleys of the San Gabriel Mountains. Descending from these mountains is the San
Gabriel River, originating from the 10,064-foot Mt. San Antonio (Old Baldy) and carrying flows from a
635-square mile watershed. The undeveloped floodplain and tributaries of the River create corridors of
wetlands and pools for insects, frogs, and fish, including historic runs of steelhead. Places such as Van
Tassel Canyon, upper Fish Canyon, and Roberts Canyon are lined with woodlands of willow, cottonwood,
Sycamore, and alder. Along the River, natural vegetation termed alluvial scrub and woodland is present
from the mouth of San Gabriel Canyon to the Foothill Boulevard Bridge, and beyond, to the Santa Fe Dam.
On the steep, south-facing slopes of the northern part of the City is vegetation called coastal sage scrub,
accented with interesting plants like Whipple’s yucca, white sage, wishbone bush, and locally dense patches
of prickly-pear cactus. On the north-facing slopes, especially on the north side of the Glendora Ridge, a
denser, chaparral vegetation prevails, along with scattered elements of the conifer forest. In addition,
rockface cliff s of the mesic slopes host two rare plant species: the San Gabriel River dudleya and the San
Gabriel Mountains dudleya. Another plant in this area is the San Gabriel leather oak, previously unreported
in the area. Biological and natural resource areas of the City are shown on Figure 4-41.
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Figure 4-41 City of Azusa – Biological Resource Overlay Zones
Source; City of Azusa General Plan Natural Environment Element
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Wetlands: Natural and Beneficial Functions
Wetlands are habitats in which soils are intermittently or permanently saturated or inundated. Wetland
habitats vary from rivers to seasonal ponding of alkaline flats and include swamps, bogs, marshes, vernal
pools, and riparian woodlands. Wetlands are considered to be waters of the United States and are subject
to the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as well as the California Department of Fish and
Wildlife (CDFW). Where the waters provide habitat for federally endangered species, the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service may also have authority.
Wetlands are a valuable natural resource for communities providing beneficial impact to water quality,
wildlife protection, recreation, and education, and play an important role in hazard mitigation. Wetlands
provide drought relief in water-scarce areas where the relationship between water storage and streamflow
regulation is vital, and reduce flood peaks and slowly release floodwaters to downstream areas. When
surface runoff is dampened, the erosive powers of the water are greatly diminished. Furthermore, the
reduction in the velocity of inflowing water as it passes through a wetland helps remove sediment being
transported by the water.
Wetlands are often found in floodplains and depressional areas of a watershed. Many wetlands receive and
store floodwaters, thus slowing and reducing downstream flow. Wetlands perform a variety of ecosystem
functions including food web support, habitat for insects and other invertebrates, fish and wildlife habitat,
filtering of waterborne and dry-deposited anthropogenic pollutants, carbon storage, water flow regulation
(e.g., flood abatement), groundwater recharge, and other human and economic benefits.
Wetlands, and other riparian and sensitive areas, provide habitat for insects and other invertebrates that are
critical food sources to a variety of wildlife species, particularly birds. There are species that depend on
these areas during all parts of their lifecycle for food, overwintering, and reproductive habitat. Other species
use wetlands and riparian areas for one or two specific functions or parts of the lifecycl e, most commonly
for food resources. In addition, these areas produce substantial plant growth that serves as a food source to
herbivores (wild and domesticated) and a secondary food source to carnivores.
Wetlands slow the flow of water through the vegetation and soil, and pollutants are often held in the soil.
In addition, because the water is slowed, sediments tend to fall out, thus improving water quality and
reducing turbidity downstream.
These natural floodplain functions associated with the natural or relatively undisturbed floodplain that
moderates flooding, such as wetland areas, are critical for maintaining water quality, recharging
groundwater, reducing erosion, redistributing sand and sediment, and providing fish and wildlife habitat.
Preserving and protecting these areas and associated functions are a vital component of sound floodplain
management practices for the City.
Natural site features such as wetlands with native plants and hydric soils have long disappeared and they
no longer can function as they should. Landowners are encouraged to plant native plants on their property.
These plants will assist with absorption and filtration of water. They will help to hold soils to keep erosion
and siltation from occurring in the waterway. Landowners are also encouraged to remove any obstructions
which might restrict water conveyance during high water events. The National Wetlands inventory
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indicates that wetlands areas are located within the northern portion of the City generally within the San
Gabriel River. Wetlands in Azusa are shown in Figure 4-42.
Figure 4-42 City of Azusa – Wetlands
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Critical Species
To further understand natural resources that may be particularly vulnerable to a hazard event, as well as
those that need consideration when implementing mitigation activities, it is important to identify at -risk
species (i.e., endangered species) in the City. An endangered species is any species of fish, plant life, or
wildlife that is in danger of extinction throughout all or most of its range. A threatened species is a species
that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant
portion of its range. Both endangered and threatened species are protected by law and any future hazard
mitigation projects are subject to these laws. Candidate species are plants and animals that have been
proposed as endangered or threatened but are not currently listed.
There are many federal endangered, threatened, or candidate species in or near Azusa. The California
Natural Diversity Database was searched for listed species. The quad that contains the City of Azusa
contained 69 species. These species are listed in Table 4-37.
Table 4-37 City of Azusa – Threatened and Endangered Species
Scientific Name Common Name Federal
Status
State
Status
CDFW
Status
CA Rare
Plant
Rank
Animals – Amphibians
Batrachoseps gabrieli San Gabriel slender salamander None None – –
Rana boylii foothill yellow–legged frog None None SSC –
Rana draytonii California red–legged frog Threatened None SSC –
Rana muscosa southern mountain yellow–
legged frog
Endangered Endangered WL –
Taricha torosa Coast Range newt None None SSC –
Spea hammondii western spadefoot None None SSC –
Animals – Birds
Accipiter cooperii Cooper's hawk None None WL –
Accipiter striatus sharp–shinned hawk None None WL –
Pandion haliaetus osprey None None WL –
Ardea alba great egret None None – –
Ardea herodias great blue heron None None – –
Nycticorax nycticorax black–crowned night heron None None – –
Lanius ludovicianus loggerhead shrike None None SSC –
Larus californicus California gull None None WL –
Icteria virens yellow–breasted chat None None SSC –
Setophaga petechia yellow warbler None None SSC –
Phalacrocorax auritus double–crested cormorant None None WL –
Polioptila californica californica coastal California gnatcatcher Threatened None SSC –
Calypte costae Costa's hummingbird None None – –
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Scientific Name Common Name Federal
Status
State
Status
CDFW
Status
CA Rare
Plant
Rank
Contopus cooperi olive–sided flycatcher None None SSC –
Empidonax traillii willow flycatcher None Endangered – –
Vireo bellii pusillus least Bell's vireo Endangered Endangered – –
Animals – Fish
Catostomus santaanae Santa Ana sucker Threatened None – –
Gila orcuttii arroyo chub None None SSC –
Rhinichthys osculus ssp. 3 Santa Ana speckled dace None None SSC –
Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus steelhead – southern California
DPS
Endangered None – –
Animals – Mammals
Ovis canadensis nelsoni desert bighorn sheep None None FP –
Eumops perotis californicus western mastiff bat None None SSC –
Nyctinomops macrotis big free–tailed bat None None SSC –
Antrozous pallidus pallid bat None None SSC –
Lasiurus cinereus hoary bat None None – –
Lasiurus xanthinus western yellow bat None None SSC –
Animals – Reptiles
Diadophis punctatus modestus San Bernardino ringneck snake None None – –
Lampropeltis zonata
(parvirubra)
California mountain kingsnake
(San Bernardino population)
None None WL –
Emys marmorata western pond turtle None None SSC –
Thamnophis hammondii two–striped gartersnake None None SSC –
Phrynosoma blainvillii coast horned lizard None None SSC –
Aspidoscelis tigris stejnegeri coastal whiptail None None SSC –
Community – Aquatic
– Southern California Arroyo
Chub/Santa Ana Sucker Stream
None None – –
Community – Terrestrial
– Canyon Live Oak Ravine Forest None None – –
– Riversidian Alluvial Fan Sage
Scrub
None None – –
– Southern Coast Live Oak
Riparian Forest
None None – –
– Southern Sycamore Alder
Riparian Woodland
None None – –
Plants – Vascular
Asplenium vespertinum western spleenwort None None – 4.2
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Scientific Name Common Name Federal
Status
State
Status
CDFW
Status
CA Rare
Plant
Rank
Pseudognaphalium
leucocephalum
white rabbit–tobacco None None – 2B.2
Symphyotrichum greatae Greata's aster None None – 1B.3
Lepidium virginicum var.
robinsonii
Robinson's pepper–grass None None – 4.3
Dudleya cymosa ssp. crebrifolia San Gabriel River dudleya None None – 1B.2
Dudleya densiflora San Gabriel Mountains dudleya None None – 1B.1
Dudleya multicaulis many–stemmed dudleya None None – 1B.2
Cladium californicum California saw–grass None None – 2B.2
Astragalus brauntonii Braunton's milk–vetch Endangered None – 1B.1
Quercus durata var. gabrielensis San Gabriel oak None None – 4.2
Quercus engelmannii Engelmann oak None None – 4.2
Juglans californica southern California black walnut None None – 4.2
Lepechinia fragrans fragrant pitcher sage None None – 4.2
Calochortus clavatus var. gracilis slender mariposa–lily None None – 1B.2
Calochortus plummerae Plummer's mariposa–lily None None – 4.2
Calochortus weedii var.
intermedius
intermediate mariposa–lily None None – 1B.2
Lilium humboldtii ssp. ocellatum ocellated humboldt lily None None – 4.2
Orobanche valida ssp. valida Rock Creek broomrape None None – 1B.2
Imperata brevifolia California satintail None None – 2B.1
Chorizanthe parryi var. parryi Parry's spineflower None None – 1B.1
Dodecahema leptoceras slender–horned spineflower Endangered Endangered – 1B.1
Horkelia cuneata var. puberula mesa horkelia None None – 1B.1
Galium angustifolium ssp.
gabrielense
San Antonio Canyon bedstraw None None – 4.3
Galium grande San Gabriel bedstraw None None – 1B.2
Heuchera caespitosa urn–flowered alumroot None None – 4.3
Thelypteris puberula var.
sonorensis
Sonoran maiden fern None None – 2B.2
Source: California Natural Diversity Database
Legend: CDFW: WL – Watch List; SSC – Species of Special Concern; FP – Fully Protected
Legend: CA Rare Plan Rank:
1A Plants presumed extinct in California and rare/extinct elsewhere
1B.1 Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere; seriously threatened in California
1B.2 Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere; fairly threatened in California
1B.3 Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California and elsewhere; not very threatened in California
2A Plants presumed extirpated in California, but more common elsewhere
2B.1 Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere; seriously threatened in California
2B.2 Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere; fairly threatened in California
2B.3 Plants rare, threatened, or endangered in California, but more common elsewhere; not very threatened in California
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3.1 Plants about which we need more information; seriously threatened in California
3.2 Plants about which we need more information; fairly threatened in California
3.3 Plants about which we need more information; not very threatened in California
4.1 Plants of limited distribution; seriously threatened in California
4.2 Plants of limited distribution; fairly threatened in California
4.3 Plants of limited distribution; not very threatened in California
Historic and Cultural Assets
Azusa has a stock of historically significant homes, public buildings, and landmarks. To inventory these
resources, the HMPC collected information from a number of sources. The California Department of Parks
and Recreation Office of Historic Preservation (OHP) was the primary source of information. The OHP is
responsible for the administration of federally and state mandated historic preservation programs to further
the identification, evaluation, registration, and protection of California’s irreplaceable archaeological and
historical resources. OHP administers the National Register of Historic Places, the California Register of
Historical Resources, California Historical Landmarks, and the California Points of Historical Interest
programs. Each program has different eligibility criteria and procedural requirements.
➢ The National Register of Historic Places is the nation’s official list of cultural resources worthy of
preservation. The National Register is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and
private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect historic and archeological resources. Properties listed
include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American hi story,
architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture. The National Register is administered by the
National Park Service, which is part of the U.S. Department of the Interior.
➢ The California Register of Historical Resources program encourages public recognition and
protection of resources of architectural, historical, archeological, and cultural significance and identifies
historical resources for state and local planning purposes; determines eligibility for state historic
preservation grant funding; and affords certain protections under the California Environmental Quality
Act. The Register is the authoritative guide to the state’s significant historical and archeological
resources.
➢ California Historical Landmarks are sites, buildings, features, or events that are of statewide
significance and have anthropological, cultural, military, political, architectural, economic, scientific
or technical, religious, experimental, or other value. Landmarks #770 and above are automatically
listed in the California Register of Historical Resources.
➢ California Points of Historical Interest are sites, buildings, features, or events that are of local (city
or county) significance and have anthropological, cultural, military, political, architectural, economic,
scientific or technical, religious, experimental, or other value. Points designated after December 1997
and recommended by the State Historical Resources Commission are also listed in the California
Register.
Historical resources included in the programs above are identified in Table 4-38.
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Table 4-38 City of Azusa – Historic Resources
Name/Landmark
Plaque Number
National
Register
State
Landmark
California
Register
Point of
Interest Date Listed Town
Azusa Civic Center
(N2160)
X 2/21/2002 Azusa
Source: California Office of Historic Preservation
It should be noted that as defined by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), any property over 50
years of age is considered a historic resource and is potentially eligible for the National Register. Thus, in
the event that the property is to be altered, or has been altered, as the result of a major federal action, the
property must be evaluated under the guidelines set forth by NEPA. Structural mitigation projects are
considered alterations for the purpose of this regulation.
Growth and Development Trends
As part of the planning process, the HMPC looked at changes in growth and development, both past and
future, and examined these changes in the context of hazard-prone areas, and how the changes in growth
and development affect loss estimates and vulnerability. Information from the 2014-2021 City of Azusa
Housing Element, General Plan Background Report, and the California Department of Finance (DOF) form
the basis of this discussion.
Past Growth and Current Population
The City of Azusa was founded in 1887 and incorporated as a general law city on December 29, 1898.
Beginning with a population of 865 in 1899, Azusa grew from 29,380 residents in 1980 to 41,330 residents
in 1990, an increase of 41 percent. Since 1990, however, population growth has been relatively moderate,
reflecting both the economic recession of the early to mid-1990s, and the limited availability of land
remaining for residential development in a mostly built-out community. As of 2017, the California
Department of Finance noted that Azusa had an estimated population of 49,762, representing a seven
percent increase since 2010. Population numbers since 1960 are shown in Table 4-39.
Table 4-39 City of Azusa– Past and Current Populations
Year Population Numerical Change Percent Change
1960 20,497 – –
1970 25,217 4,720 23%
1980 29,380 4,163 17%
1990 41,333 11,953 41%
2000 44,712 3,379 8%
2010 46,300 1,588 4%
2017 49,762 3,462 7%
Source: City of Azusa 2014-2021 Housing Element, US Census Bureau, California Department of Finance E-1 Report
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Special Populations
Special needs groups, as defined by State law, include the elderly, persons with disabilities, large
households, female-headed families, farm workers, and the homeless. According to the 2010 Census, there
were 3,576 elderly persons (over age 65) in Azusa. This represents a 15 percent increase from 2000. Of
this elderly population, almost 39 percent had some form of disability in 2010. To help meet the needs of
the disabled population, the City permits residential care facilities that serve six or fewer persons in all
residential zones and all Corridor zones. Residential care facilities that serve seven or more persons are
permitted with a minor use permit in all neighborhood zones, except Neighborhood Centers, and in the
University District and Downtown Transit Village. They are permitted without a minor use permit in all
zones. As of 2012, there were 10 State licensed facilities located in the City with a total capacity of 147
beds.
As required by SB 244, codified as Government Code Section 65302.10, the City is required to address
identified Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities (DUCs) within its sphere of influence in the Land
Use Element upon next adoption of the housing element. DUCs for the City of Azusa have been identified
based on communities that are below 80% of the State Median Household Income based on the latest census
data. These DUCs include unincorporated communities along the City’s southern boundary, north of Arrow
Highway within the City’s sphere of influence, and along the eastern boundary with Glendora. These can
be seen in Figure 4-43.
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Figure 4-43 Azusa – Disadvantaged Unincorporated Communities
Source: City of Azusa Housing Element Initial Study
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In addition to the special populations mentioned above, the HMPC noted that populations or areas that
sometimes need additional notifications and sometimes assistance during a hazard event include the
equestrian centers located in the foothills of the City. These areas often need early notifications and
evacuation warnings for a variety of hazard types such as wildfire, flood, dam failure, and mudslides.
Also a significant issue to the City is the homeless populations that are both at risk to hazards and sometimes
contributors to the hazard event, such as wildfires. Homeless encampments tend to form around the river
beds and in the San Gabriel and Orundo areas. The City continues to address this issue through a variety
of means and programs.
Land Use
The Land Use Map designates the land use pattern envisioned for the City. The designations on the map
must be consistent with the General Plan in relationship to each land use category. The Zoning Ordinance
sets forth regulations and standards for development to ensure that the policies, goals, and objectives of the
General Plan are carried out. Land use and zoning in the City is shown on Figure 4-44.
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Figure 4-44 City of Azusa – Land Use Map
Source: City of Azusa General Plan
Future Development
In terms of future trends, the 2014-2021 Housing Element predicted future population through 2035:
➢ 2020 – 49,500
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➢ 2035 – 53,800
Specific Plans
A Specific Plan is a tool for implementing the General Plan. A Specific Plan provides the standards for
development within designated parts of the City. The City has two specific plan areas where growth and
development is occurring:
➢ Dhammakaya Specific Plan – The City of Azusa (Lead Agency) received an application from the
Dhammakaya International Meditation Center for the phased construction of a 69,179 square -foot
meditation hall, nine two-story Organizational Housing buildings, a workshop building, a stormwater
detention basin, a fire access road, additional parking, a reflecting pool, and landscaping located at 865
E. Monrovia Place in the City of Azusa. The Specific Plan was approved by the City Council on
September 21, 2015.
➢ TOD Specific Plan – On September 10, 2012, City staff submitted an application to the Los Angeles
County Metropolitan Transportation Agency (Metro) for Round 3 of their Transit Oriented
Development (TOD) Planning Grant program. The TOD Planning Grant Program is designed to spur
the adoption of local land use regulations that create a regulatory environment supportive of TOD in
Los Angeles County, as well as pre-regulatory planning efforts that can lead to the adoption of such
local land use regulations. The Planning Grant Program was open to municipalities with land use
regulatory control over property within 0.25-mile of designated transit corridors. In February 2013,
Metro awarded the City a $653,000 grant to develop to specific plan and promote TOD around the
Azusa Downtown Gold Line Station and Azusa Pacific University (APU)/Citrus Station. The Azusa
TOD Specific Plan was adopted by the City Council on November 16, 2015. The Azusa TOD Specific
Plan area is approximately 308 acres in size, with approximately 170 acres potentially receiving new
development opportunities, and approximately 138 acres of no-change areas. The Specific Plan area is
located in the central portion of the City and is bound by 9th Street to the north, Lemon Avenue to the
west, 5th and 6th Streets to the south, and Citrus Avenue to the east. The Plan allows for the addition
of up to 403,000 square feet of retail, service, and office uses, 150 hotel rooms, and 840 dwelling units.
Other Development Plans
The CT Aerojet Project involves the development of three warehouse buildings totaling 181,800 square
feet on an 8.35-acre site. The site was historically developed with numerous structures and was part of the
Aerojet-General Corporation (Aerojet) campus. At its peak, the Aerojet campus was 125 acres. Locally,
the project site is located south of Interstate 210 and east of North Irwindale Avenue in the southwestern
portion of the City of Azusa at 301 Aerojet Avenue. The 8.35-acre project site is currently vacant and
undeveloped. The project was approved by the Planning Commission on September 20, 2015. The project
was under construction in 2017/2018.
Future Development GIS Analysis
Figure 4-45 identifies eight future development projects: 1) 803 -813 N. Dalton Avenue, 2) A2, 3) Atlantis
Gardens, 4) Block 36, 5) Block 37, 6) Colorama, 7) Lagunitas, and 8) Smart & Final Extra. Parcel and
acreage information is provided for each of the eight sites in Table 4-39. Six of the eight projects are located
within the Azusa TOD Specific Plan area: 803 -813 N. Dalton Avenue, A2, Atlantis Gardens, Block 36,
Block 37, and Smart & Final Extra.
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➢ 803 – 813 N. Dalton Avenue – This 1.44 acre (62,798 sf) site is located at 803 -809 N. Dalton Avenue.
On May 1, 2017 the City Council approved Final Tract Map No. 74376 for the development of 30
townhome units. The project is estimated to be constructed in 2018/2019.
➢ A2 – This 1.20 acre site (52,355 sf) site was previously owned by the Azusa S uccessor Agency and
through a Request for Proposal and Exclusive Negotiation Agreement process is being sold to Costanza
Investments, who will develop the site with a mixed use project. The property is zoned Gold Line
District within the Azusa TOD Specific Plan. The project will include 12,000 sf of commercial area
and 127 residential units. The project is anticipated to go before the Azusa Planning Commission in
later summer/early fall 2018.
➢ Atlantis Gardens – The site is currently occupied by twelve-fifteen four-unit (Quadruplexes) multi-
family properties, structures, and sub-surface parking areas. The site is owned by the Azusa Successor
Agency. In June 2010, the previous Redevelopment Agency Board (now the Successor Agency)
approved a Notice of Completion for the abatement and demolition of the Atlantis Gardens. Eighteen
parcels have been cleared and are vacant lots. No development projects are proposed as of July 2018,
but future projects are anticipated to include affordable housing units for very -low and low income
households.
➢ Block 36 – This 2.24 acre (97,649 sf) site, located on the northeast corner of Azusa Avenue (Hwy 39)
and Foothill Boulevard (Historic Route 66), was previously owned by the Azusa Successor Agency
and through a Request for Proposal and Exclusive Negotiation Agreement process is being sold to
Serrano Development Group, who will develop the site with a mixed use project. The property is zoned
Downtown District within the Azusa TOD Specific Plan. The project will include 32,530 sf of
commercial area for theater, retail, and restaurant uses and 148,690 sf of residential area. The
commercial area includes a 270-seat movie theater (8,200 sf), 23,366 sf of retail and restaurant space.
The residential area includes 163 apartment units and 3 live/work units. The project is anticipated to go
before the Azusa Planning Commission in later summer 2018.
➢ Block 37 – The 1.29 acre (56,000 sf) site, located at 600-624 N. San Gabriel Avenue is owned by the
Azusa Successor Agency. The site includes an existing 8,000 square foot building, suitable for an
outdoor sporting goods or recreational equipment store, and adjoining parking areas. Alternatively the
building could be demolished and combined with a portion of the existing parking area to create a larger
footprint. On May 7, 2018, the City Council approved a Purchase and Sales Agreement by and between
the Azusa Successor Agency and Summitrose Investments, LP and Hillrose Investments, LP, who
would develop the site. No plans have been submitted to City as of July 2018.
➢ Colorama – The 23.27 (1,013,641 sf) acre site is located at 1025 N. Todd Avenue. There is a proposal
to redevelop the Colorama Wholesale Nursery site with the Azusa Business Center project, which
includes the construction of seven large industrial buildings with a total of 462,491 square feet. As of
July 2018, the Azusa Business Center project is being reviewed by the Economic and Community
Development Department and an Environmental Impact Report is being prepared. Public hearings with
the Planning Commission and/or City Council are anticipated in 2018/2019.
➢ Lagunitas Brewery Company – This 21.63 acre (942,203 sf) site is located at 1001 N. Todd Avenue.
The property is zoned West End Light Industrial (DWL). The Brewery opened in2017 and includes
three buildings totaling 342,629 square feet, 24-hour brewery operations, taproom, outdoor dining, and
on-site and off-site alcohol sales.
➢ Smart & Final Extra – This 1.5 acre (65,340 sf) site is located at 303 E. Foothill Boulevard. The
property is zoned Downtown Expansion District within the Azusa TOD Specific Plan. The project
includes a 29,996 sf commercial building and site improvements. The store opened in November 2017.
Mapping of these areas are included in Figure 4-45 and detailed in Table 4-40.
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Figure 4-45 Azusa – Future Development Areas
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Table 4-40 Azusa – Future Development Areas with Parcels and Acreage
Future Development Areas Parcels Acres
803-813 N Dalton Ave 4 1
A2 6 2
Atlantis Gardens 40 6
Block 36 1 2
Block 37 9 1
Colorama 1 23
Lagunitas 1 22
Smart & Final Extra 6 1
Grand Total 68 58
Source: City of Azusa
4.3.2. Azusa’s Vulnerability to Specific Hazards
The Disaster Mitigation Act regulations require that the HMPC evaluate the risk and vulnerability
associated with priority hazards identified in the planning process. This section summarizes the possible
impacts and quantifies, where data permits, the City’s vulnerability to each of the hazards identified as a
priority hazard in Section 4.2.15 Natural Hazards Summary. The priority hazards evaluated further as part
of this vulnerability assessment include:
➢ Dam Failure
➢ Drought and Water Shortage
➢ Earthquake
➢ Earthquake: Liquefaction
➢ Flood: 100/500 year
➢ Flood: Localized Stormwater Flooding
➢ Landslide and Mudslides
➢ Levee Failure
➢ Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms
➢ Severe Weather: High Winds
➢ Wildfire
It should be noted that, due to the limited likelihood of occurrence, tornadoes were dropped from the high
winds hazard for the vulnerability assessment.
An estimate of the vulnerability of the City to each identified hazard, in addition to the estimate of likelihood
of future occurrence, is provided in each of the hazard-specific sections that follow. Vulnerability is
measured in general, qualitative terms and is a summary of the potential impact based on past occurrences,
spatial extent, and damage and casualty potential. It is categorized into the following classifications:
➢ Extremely Low—The occurrence and potential cost of damage to life and property is very minimal to
nonexistent.
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➢ Low—Minimal potential impact. The occurrence and potential cost of damage to life and property is
minimal.
➢ Medium—Moderate potential impact. This ranking carries a moderate threat level to the general
population and/or built environment. Here the potential damage is more isolated and less costly than a
more widespread disaster.
➢ High—Widespread potential impact. This ranking carries a high threat to the general population and/or
built environment. The potential for damage is widespread. Hazards in this category may have
occurred in the past.
➢ Extremely High—Very widespread with catastrophic impact.
Vulnerability can be quantified in those instances where there is a known, identified hazard area, such as a
mapped floodplain. In these instances, the numbers and types of buildings subject to the identified hazard
can be counted and their values tabulated. Other information can be collected in regard to the hazard area,
such as the location of City critical facilities, historic structures, and valued natural resources (e.g., an
identified wetland or endangered species habitat). Together, this information conveys the impact, or
vulnerability, of an area to that hazard.
The HMPC identified six hazards in the City for which specific geographical hazard areas have been defined
and for which sufficient data exists to support a quantifiable vulnerability analysis. These seven hazards
are dam failure, earthquake, flood, landslide, liquefaction, and wildfire. Because these hazards have
discrete hazard risk areas, their risk varies throughout the City. For dam failure, flood, landslide,
liquefaction, and wildfire, the HMPC inventoried the following, to the extent possible, to quantify
vulnerability in identified hazard areas:
➢ General hazard-related impacts, including impacts to life, safety, and health
➢ Values at risk (i.e., types, numbers, and value of land and improvements)
➢ Population at risk
➢ Critical facilities at risk
➢ Overall community impact
➢ Future development/redevelopment trends within the identified hazard area
HMPC used FEMA’s loss estimation software, HAZUS-MH, to analyze the City’s vulnerability to
earthquakes.
The vulnerability and potential impacts from priority hazards that do not have specific mapped areas nor
the data to support additional vulnerability analysis are discussed here in more general terms.
4.3.3. Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment
Likelihood of Future Occurrence—Likely
Vulnerability—Low
Although deemed a low significance hazard, due it is importance to the State of California, climate change
impacts to the City of Azusa are detailed here.
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Hazard/Problem Description
The California Adaptation Planning Guide (APG) prepared by California OES and CNRA was developed
to provide guidance and support for local governments and regional collaboratives to address the
unavoidable consequences of climate change.
The APG: Defining Local and Regional Impacts focuses on understanding the ways in which climate
change can affect a community. According to this APG, climate change impacts (temperature,
precipitation, sea level rise, ocean acidification, and wind) affect a wide range of community structures,
functions and populations. These impacts further defined by regional and local characteristics are discussed
by secondary impacts and seven sectors found in local communities: Public Health, Socioeconomic, and
equity impacts; Ocean and Coastal Resources; Water Management; Forest and Rangeland; Biodiversity and
Habitat; Agriculture; and Infrastructure.
Azusa Climate Change Impacts
The APG: Understanding Regional Characteristics identified the following impacts specific to the South
Coast Region of which Azusa is part of. This can be found in Table 4-41.
Table 4-41 Summary of Cal-Adapt Climate Projections for the South Coast Region5
RANGES
Temperature
Change, 1990-
2100
January increase in average temperatures: 1°F to 2.5°F by 2050 and 5°F to 6°F by 2100 July
increase in average temperatures: 3°F to 4°F by 2050 and 5°F to 10°F by 2100 with larger increases
projected inland. (Modeled high temperatures; high carbon emissions scenario)
Precipitation Annual precipitation will vary by area but will decline overall throughout the century. Low-lying
coastal areas will lose up to 2 inches by 2050 and 3 to 5 inches by 2090, while high elevations will
see a drop of 4 to 5 inches by 2050 and 8 to 10 inches by 2090. (CCSM3 climate model; high
emissions scenario)
Sea Level Rise By 2100, sea levels may rise up to 66 inches, posing considerable threats to coastal areas in the
region including Venice Beach, the Port of Long Beach, the S outh Coast naval stations, and San
Diego Harbor. As a result of sea level rise, 45 percent more land in Los Angeles County, 40
percent more land in San Diego County, 35 percent more land in Ventura County, and 28 percent
more land in Orange County will be vulnerable to 100-year floods.
Heat Wave Along the coast, a heat wave is five days over temperature in the 80s. Inland, the temperature must
hit the 90s and 100s for five days. All areas can expect 3 to 5 more heat waves by 2050 and 12 to
14 by 2100 in most areas of the region.
Snowpack March snowpack in the San Gabriel Mountains will decrease from the 0.7 -inch level in 2010 to
zero by the end of the century. (CCSM3 climate model; high emissions scenario)
Wildfire Risk Little change is projected in the already high-fire risk in this region, save for slight increases
expected in a few coastal mountainous areas such as near Ojai and in Castaic, Fallbrook, and
Mission Viejo.
Source: Public Interest Energy Research, 2011. Cal-Adapt6; OPC 2013. State of California Sea-level Rise Guidance Document7
Future Development
Azusa and Los Angeles County in general could see population fluctuations as a result of climate impacts
relative to those experienced in other regions, and these fluctuations are expected to impact demand for
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housing and other development. For example, sea level rise may disrupt economic activity and housing in
coastal communities, resulting in migration to inland urban areas like the City of Azusa. Other interior
western states may experience an exodus of population due to challenges in adapting to heat even more
extreme than that which is projected to occur here. While there are currently no formal studies of specific
migration patterns expected to impact the South Coast region, climate-induced migration was recognized
within the UNFCCC Conference of Parties Paris Agreement of 2015 and is expected to be the focus of
future studies.
Climate change, coupled with shifting demographics and market conditions, could impact both the
location of desired developments and the nature of development. Demand may increase for smaller
dwellings that are less resource intensive, more energy efficient, easier to maintain and can be more readily
adapted or even moved in response to changing conditions. Compact, mixed-use and infill developments
that can help residents avoid long commutes and vulnerabilities associated with the transportation system
will likely continue to grow in popularity. The value of open space and pressure to preserve it will likely
increase, due in part to its restorative, recreational, environmental and habitat benefits but also for its ability
to sequester carbon, help mitigate the accumulation of greenhouse gas in the atmosphere and slow down
the global warming trend. Higher flood risks, especially if coupled with increased federal flood insurance
rates, may decrease market demand for housing and other types of development in floodplains, while
increased risk of wildfires may do the same for new developments in the urban-wildland interface. Flood
risks may also inspire new development and building codes that elevate structures while maintaining
streetscapes and neighborhood characteristics.
Climate change will stress water resources. Water is an issue in every region, but the nature of the
potential impacts varies. Drought, related to reduced precipitation, increased evaporation, and increased
water loss from plants, is an important issue in many U.S. regions, especially in the West. Floods, water
quality problems, and impacts on aquatic ecosystems and species are likely to be amplified by climate
change. Declines in mountain snowpack are important in Los Angeles County, the Sierra Nevada
Mountains and across the state, where snowpack provides vital natural water storage and supply. The ability
to secure and provide water for new development requires on-going monitoring and assurances. It is
recommended that the ability to provide a reliable water supply from the appropriate water purveyor,
continue to be in the conditions for project approval, and such assurances shall be verified and in place prior
to issuing building permits.
Climate change will affect transportation. The transportation network is vital to the county and the
region’s economy, safety, and quality of life. While it is widely recognized that emissions from
transportation have impacts on climate change, climate will also likely have significant impacts on
transportation infrastructure and operations. Examples of specific types of impacts include softening of
asphalt roads and warping of railroad rails; damage to roads; flooding of roadways, rail routes, and airports
from extreme events; and interruptions to flight plans due to severe weather.
Climate change will affect land uses and planning. Climate change coupled with shifting demographics
and market conditions, could impact both the location of desired developments and the nature of
development. Demand may increase for smaller dwellings that are less resource intensive, more energy
efficient, easier to maintain and can be more readily adapted or even moved in response to changing
conditions. Compact, mixed-use and infill developments that can help residents avoid long commutes and
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vulnerabilities associated with the transportation system will likely continue to grow in popularity. The
value of open space, urban greening, green infrastructure, tre e canopy expansion and pressure to preserve
it will likely increase, due in part to its restorative, recreational, environmental, and habitat, and physical
and mental health benefits but also for its ability to sequester carbon and cool the surrounding environment.
Climate change will affect utilities. California is already experiencing impacts from climate change such
as an increased number of wildfires, sea level rise and severe drought. Utility efforts to deal with these
impacts range from emergency and risk management protocols to new standards for infrastructure design
and new resource management techniques. Utilities are just beginning to build additional resilience and
redundancy into their infrastructure investments from a climate adaptation perspective, but have been doing
so from an overall safety and reliability perspective for decades. Significant efforts are also being made in
those areas that overlap with climate change mitigation such as diversification of resources, specifically the
addition of more renewables to the portfolio mix, as well as implementation of demand response efforts to
curb peak demand. Efforts are also under way to upgrade the distribution grid infrastructure, which should
add significant resilience to the grid as well. New development will have to adapt and incorporate these
new approaches as they evolve. Existing and new development will be affected from impacts that includes
not only diminished capacity from all of the utility assets from generation to transmission and distribution,
but also the cost consequences resulting from prevention, replacement, outage, and energy loss. These have
the potential for greatly impacting not just residential development but commercial and industrial and all
utility users.
Addressing Urban Heat Islands and Heat Events. New development will contribute to urban heat island
(UHI) impacts and will need to incorporate urban greening methods into all aspects of development; interior
and exterior of buildings, surrounding environment and beyond. New development will need to reduce its
impacts to the overall UHI impacts affecting the county and surrounding region. On -going and expanding
heat wave awareness and assistance will also affect new development. Continued funding will be a priority
for weatherization, reduced utility rates and similar programs that offers assistance to elderly, low-income
residents to install roof insulation, solar, trees and cool surfaces to save energy and lower indoor
temperatures.
4.3.4. Dam Failure Vulnerability Assessment
Likelihood of Future Occurrence—Unlikely
Vulnerability—Extremely High
Hazard/Problem Description
Dam failure flooding can occur as the result of partial or complete collapse of an impoundment. Dam
failures often result from prolonged rainfall and flooding. The primary danger associated with dam failure
is the high velocity flooding of those properties downstream of the dam. A dam failure can range from a
small, uncontrolled release to a catastrophic failure. Vulnerability to dam failures is confined to the areas
subject to inundation downstream of the facility. Secondary losses would include loss of the multi-use
functions of the facility and associated revenues that accompany those functions.
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Dam failure flooding would vary by community depending on which dam fails and the nature and extent
of the dam failure and associated flooding. Based on the risk assessment, it is apparent that a major dam
failure could have a devastating impact on the City. Dam failure flooding presents a threat to life and
property, including buildings, their contents, and their use. Large flood events can affect lifeline utilities
(e.g., water, sewerage, and power), transportation, jobs, tourism, the environment, and the local and regional
economies.
Flooding as a result of dam failure can occur as a result of manmade or natural causes. Such causes include
improper sitting, structural design flaws, erosion of the face or foundation, earthquakes, massive landslides,
and rapidly rising flood waters. Inundation as a result of dam failure would most likely be the result of a
major flood or large earthquake.
Values at Risk
According to the General Plan EIR, 95 percent of the City is located within the inundation area of o ne of
these dams. The General Plan Environmental Impact Report noted that the lowest areas of the City, and
the areas immediately along the San Gabriel River channel, would be the most susceptible to damages from
rapidly flowing water and associated floating debris. Areas farthest from the channel would suffer more
from sheet flow and rising water.
The City Planning Team noted that that potential vulnerability from dam failure will depend on how full
the reservoirs are as well as other factors such as rai n, snowmelt etc. They noted that the Morris and San
Gabriel reservoirs aren’t usually maintained at levels that are close to capacity, thus reducing potential
impacts from a dam failure.
Methodology
The City of Azusa parcel layer and Los Angeles County’s 2017 Assessor’s data were used as the basis for
the City inventory of parcels and values for Azusa’s dam inundation analysis. Azusa has mapped dam
inundation zones for the Big Dalton, Cogswell, Morris, and San Gabriel dams. Inundation maps for these
dams were provided by Cal OES. GIS was used to determine the possible impacts of dam failure within
the City. The following methodology was followed in determining improved parcel counts and values in
combined dam inundation areas. The dam inundation zones for the City for the Big Dalton, Cogswell,
Morris, and San Gabriel dams are shown on Figure 4-46. Analysis results for the entire City of Azusa
Planning Area are summarized in Table 4-42, which summarizes total parcel counts, improved parcel
counts, and their land values, structure values, contents value, and total values by property use for all
inundation zones in the City. Contents values were derived from the improved structure values using the
same methodology as described in the Section 4.3.1.
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Figure 4-46 Azusa – Dam Inundation Areas for Dams of Concern
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Table 4-42 Azusa – Dam Inundation Areas: Count and Values of Parcels by Property Use
Property Use Total Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents
Value
Total Value*
Commercial 390 277 $202,593,063 $136,658,492 $136,658,492 $273,316,984
Government 128 4 $7,249,516 $309,405 $309,405 $618,810
Industrial 407 340 $256,185,098 $289,020,763 $433,531,145 $722,551,908
Institutional 35 34 $23,433,085 $85,861,860 $85,861,860 $171,723,720
Miscellaneous 92 22 $13,079,702 $3,114,893 $3,114,893 $6,229,786
Residential 7,145 6,946 $1,117,757,734 $1,020,597,195 $510,298,598 $1,530,895,793
Open - No
Use Code
59 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Total 8,256 7,623 $1,620,298,198 $1,535,562,608 $1,169,774,392 $2,705,337,000
Source: Cal OES, City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
Figure 4-46 and Table 4-42 show results of dam inundation analysis for all of the inundation areas in the
City. The value of these tables is that they show the total area at risk to dam failure. It is unlikely that all
dams would fail simultaneously. As such, analysis was performed for the Big Dalton, Morris, and San
Gabriel dam inundation areas separately. The inundation area for the Big Dalton Dam can be seen on
Figure 4-47, and analysis of parcels and values at risk is shown in Table 4-43. The inundation area for the
Morris Dam can be seen on Figure 4-48 , and analysis of parcels and values at risk is shown in Table 4-44.
The inundation area for the San Gabriel Dam can be seen on Figure 4-49, and analysis of parcels and values
at risk is shown in Table 4-45.
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Figure 4-47 Azusa – Dam Inundation Area for Big Dalton Dam
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Table 4-43 Azusa – Big Dalton Dam Inundation Area Count and Values of Parcels by Property
Use
Property Use Total Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents
Value
Total Value*
Commercial 86 68 $94,663,273 $72,677,553 $72,677,553 $145,355,106
Government 30 1 $3,130,436 $40,757 $40,757 $81,514
Industrial 2 1 $4,507,271 $11,538,816 $17,308,224 $28,847,040
Institutional 9 9 $3,813,511 $36,749,885 $36,749,885 $73,499,770
Miscellaneous 4 0 $268,825 $0 $0 $0
Residential 1,854 1,841 $327,148,134 $300,018,011 $150,009,006 $450,027,017
Open - No
Use Code
12 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Total 1,997 1,920 $433,531,450 $421,025,022 $276,785,425 $697,810,447
Source: Cal OES, City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
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Figure 4-48 Azusa – Dam Inundation Area for Morris Dam
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Table 4-44 Azusa – Morris Dam Inundation Area Count and Values of Parcels by Property
Use
Property Use Total Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents
Value
Total Value*
Commercial 278 192 $93,952,439 $55,341,288 $55,341,288 $110,682,576
Government 90 3 $3,860,130 $268,648 $268,648 $537,296
Industrial 405 339 $251,677,827 $277,481,947 $416,222,921 $693,704,868
Institutional 22 21 $11,835,790 $19,699,320 $19,699,320 $39,398,640
Miscellaneous 86 20 $12,521,537 $1,821,087 $1,821,087 $3,642,174
Residential 4,799 4,675 $714,287,181 $632,303,138 $316,151,569 $948,454,707
Open - No
Use Code
30 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Total 5,710 5,250 $1,088,134,904 $986,915,428 $809,504,833 $1,796,420,261
Source: Cal OES, City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
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Figure 4-49 Azusa – Dam Inundation Area for San Gabriel Dam
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Table 4-45 Azusa – San Gabriel Dam Inundation Area Count and Values of Parcels by
Property Use
Property Use Total Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents
Value
Total Value*
Commercial 330 226 $142,702,430 $83,147,087 $83,147,087 $166,294,174
Government 113 4 $5,723,378 $309,405 $309,405 $618,810
Industrial 404 340 $254,847,238 $289,020,763 $433,531,145 $722,551,908
Institutional 32 31 $21,931,545 $54,581,420 $54,581,420 $109,162,840
Miscellaneous 88 21 $12,850,213 $3,111,194 $3,111,194 $6,222,388
Residential 5,933 5,743 $928,421,827 $833,421,526 $416,710,763 $1,250,132,289
Open - No
Use Code
51 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Total 6,951 6,365 $1,366,476,631 $1,263,591,395 $991,391,014 $2,254,982,409
Source: Cal OES, City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
Population at Risk
The Big Dalton, Morris, San Gabriel inundation area was overlayed on the parcel layer. Those residential
parcel centroids that intersect the inundation zones were counted and multiplied by the 2010 Census Bureau
average household factors for Azusa (3.43). Population in the total dam inundation zones is shown in Table
4-46. Population by dam inundation area are shown in Table 4-47.
Table 4-46 Azusa – Count of Improved Residential Parcels and Population in Total Dam
Inundation Areas
Dam Inundation Zone Improved Residential Parcels Population
Inside Inundation Area 6,946 23,825
Total 6,946 23,825
Source: CAL FIRE, City of Azusa Parcel Layer, US Census Bureau
Table 4-47 Azusa – Count of Improved Residential Parcels and Population by Dam
Inundation Areas
Dam Inundation Zone Improved Residential Parcels Population
Big Dalton Dam 1,841 6,315
Morris Dam 4,675 16,035
San Gabriel Dam 5,743 19,699
Source: CAL FIRE, City of Azusa Parcel Layer, US Census Bureau
Critical Facilities at Risk
An analysis was performed on the critical facility inventory in Azusa in identified dam inundation zones.
GIS was used to determine whether the facility locations intersects either the Morris or San Gabriel Dam
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inundation zone. Details of critical facilities in dam inundation areas for the City of Azusa are shown on
Figure 4-52. 26 critical facilities fall within the dam inundation zones for the City, as shown in Table 4-48.
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Figure 4-50 Azusa – Critical Facilities in All Dam Inundation Areas
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Table 4-48 Azusa – Critical Facilities in Dam All Inundation Areas
Facility Name Facility Count
Essential Services
210 Fwy Overpass 1
Azusa Public Works 1
City Hall 1
Fire Station 32 1
Police 1
Railroad Overpass 1
Total 6
At Risk Populations
Azusa High School 1
Azusa Montessori Academy 1
Christbridge Academy 1
Dalton Elementary 1
Edgewood Center 1
Foothill Middle School 1
Hodge Elementary 1
Lee Elementary 1
Light & Life Christian School 1
Little Gems Learing & Daycare 1
Mountain View Elementary 1
Paramount Elementary 1
Saint Frances of Rome School 1
Silverado Sierra Vista Car Community 1
Slauson Middle School 1
Soldano Senior Village 1
Valleydale Elementary 1
Total 17
Hazardous Material Facilities
Azusa Land Reclamation 1
IDR Environmental Services 1
Waste Management 1
Total 3
Grand Total 26
Source: Cal OES, City of Azusa GIS
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Table 4-48 shows the total number of critical facilities in all dam inundation areas. Critical facilities in the
Big Dalton (Table 4-49), Morris (Table 4-50), and San Gabriel (Table 4-51) dam inundation areas are
shown below.
Table 4-49 Azusa – Critical Facilities in the Big Dalton Dam Inundation Area
Facility Name Facility Count
At Risk Populations
Azusa High School 1
Foothill Middle School 1
Gladstone Street Elementary 1
Light & Life Christian School 1
Magnolia Elementary 1
Murray Elementary 1
Valleydale Elementary 1
WR Powell Elementary 1
Total 8
Source: Cal OES, City of Azusa GIS
Table 4-50 Azusa – Critical Facilities in the Morris Dam Inundation Area
Facility Name Facility Count
Essential Services
210 Fwy Overpass 1
Azusa Public Works 1
City Hall 1
Fire Station 32 1
Police 1
Railroad Overpass 1
Total 6
At Risk Populations
Azusa Montessori Academy 1
Dalton Elementary 1
Edgewood Center 1
Hodge Elementary 1
Little Gems Learing & Daycare 1
Mountain View Elementary 1
Paramount Elementary 1
Saint Frances of Rome School 1
Silverado Sierra Vista Car Community 1
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Facility Name Facility Count
Slauson Middle School 1
Soldano Senior Village 1
Total 11
Hazardous Material Facilities
Azusa Land Reclamation 1
IDR Environmental Services 1
Waste Management 1
Total 3
Grand Total 20
Source: Cal OES, City of Azusa GIS
Table 4-51 Azusa – Critical Facilities in the San Gabriel Dam Inundation Area
Facility Name Facility Count
Essential Services
210 Fwy Overpass 1
Azusa Public Works 1
City Hall 1
Fire Station 32 1
Police 1
Railroad Overpass 1
Total 6
At Risk Populations
Azusa High School 1
Azusa Montessori Academy 1
Christbridge Academy 1
Dalton Elementary 1
Edgewood Center 1
Foothill Middle School 1
Hodge Elementary 1
Lee Elementary 1
Light & Life Christian School 1
Little Gems Learing & Daycare 1
Mountain View Elementary 1
Paramount Elementary 1
Saint Frances of Rome School 1
Silverado Sierra Vista Car Community 1
Slauson Middle School 1
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Facility Name Facility Count
Soldano Senior Village 1
Valleydale Elementary 1
Total 17
Hazardous Material Facilities
Azusa Land Reclamation 1
IDR Environmental Services 1
Waste Management 1
Total 3
Grand Total 20
Source: Cal OES, City of Azusa GIS
Overall Community Impact
Dam failures and the floods that follow have impacts that vary by location and severity of any given event
and will likely only affect certain areas of the City during specific times. Based on the risk assessment, it is
evident that a dam failure would have potentially devastating economic impacts to areas of the Azusa.
Impacts that can be anticipated in large future events, include:
➢ Commercial and residential structural and property damage;
➢ Costs incurred due to post-flood clean up and repair of buildings and infrastructure;
➢ Damage to roads/bridges resulting in loss of mobility;
➢ Decreased revenue due to loss of income, sales, tourism, and property taxes;
➢ Deterioration of homes and neighborhoods as floods recur;
➢ Disruption of and damage to public infrastructure and services;
➢ Health hazards associated with mold and mildew, contamination of drinking water, etc.;
➢ Impact on the overall mental health of the community;
➢ Injury and loss of life, including first responders rescuing those who did not evacuat e or are stranded;
➢ Loss of historical or unique artifacts;
➢ Loss of jobs due to businesses closing or cutting back on operating hours;
➢ Loss of programs or services that are cut to pay for flood recovery;
➢ Mental health and family impacts, including increased occurrence of suicides and divorce
➢ Negative impact on commercial and residential property values;
➢ Significant disruption to students and teachers as temporary facilities and relocations would likely be
needed; and
➢ Significant economic impact (jobs, sales, tax revenue) to the community.
Future Development
Future development areas for the City are broken out into eight areas. GIS data is maintained by the City
of Azusa, and was made available for this plan. An analysis was performed to quantify parcels wi thin these
areas that are also in Cal OES dam inundation areas for Cogswell, Morrison, San Gabriel, and Big Dalton
dams. Results can provide information on how and where to grow in the future. GIS was used to create a
centroid, or point representing the center of the parcel polygon. Those parcels centroids that fall inside the
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future development areas and that were within the dam inundation zones are shown on Figure 4-51 and
detailed in Table 4-52.
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Figure 4-51 Azusa – Future Development in Dam Inundation Areas
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Table 4-52 Azusa – Future Development and Dam Inundation Areas
Future Development Areas Parcels Acres San Gabriel
Inundation
Morris
Inundation
Big Dalton
Inundation
Cogswell
Inundation
803-813 N Dalton Ave 4 1 Y Y N N
A2 6 2 Y Y N N
Atlantis Gardens 40 6 Y Y N N
Block 36 1 2 Y Y N N
Block 37 9 1 Y Y N N
Colorama 1 23 Y Y N N
Lagunitas 1 22 Y Y N N
Smart & Final Extra 6 1 Y Y N N
68 58
Source: Cal OES, City of Azusa GIS
4.3.5. Drought and Water Shortage Vulnerability Assessment
Likelihood of Future Occurrence—Likely
Vulnerability—Medium
Hazard/Problem Description
Drought is different than many of the other natural hazards in that it is not a distinct event and usually has
a slow onset. Drought can severely impact a region both physically and economically. Drought affects
different sectors in different ways and with varying intensities. Adequate water is the most critical issue
for agricultural, manufacturing, tourism, recreation, and commercial and domestic use. As the population
in the area continues to grow, so too will the demand for water.
Based on historical information, the occurrence of drought in California, including in Azusa, is cyclical,
driven by weather patterns. Drought has occurred in the past and will occur in the future. Periods of actual
drought with adverse impacts can vary in duration, and the period between droughts is often extended.
Although an area may be under an extended dry period, determining when it becomes a drought is based
on impacts to individual water users. The vulnerability of the City to drought is citywide, but impacts may
vary by area and include reduction in water supply and an increase in dry fuels.
Drought impacts are wide-reaching and may be economic, environmental, and/or societal. Tracking
drought impacts can be difficult. The Drought Impact Reporter from the NDMC is a useful reference tool
that compiles reported drought impacts nationwide by County. Table 4-53 show drought impacts for Los
Angeles County from 1850 to May 1, 2017. The data represented is skewed, with the majority of these
impacts from records within the past ten years.
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Table 4-53 Los Angeles County – Drought Impacts (1850 to 2015)
Category Number
Agriculture 31
Business and Industry 10
Energy 3
Fire 29
Plants & Wildlife 36
Relief, Response, and Restrictions 83
Society and Public Health 60
Tourism and recreation 8
Water Supply and Quality 126
Total 386
Source: National Drought Mitigation Center
The most significant qualitative impacts associated with drought in the City are those related to water
intensive activities such as wildfire protection, municipal usage, commerce, and wildlife preservation.
Mandatory conservation measures are typically implemented during extended droughts. A reduction of
electric power generation and water quality deterioration are also potential problems. Drought conditions
can also cause soil to compact and not absorb water well, potentially making an area more susceptible to
flooding.
It is difficult to quantitatively assess drought impacts to Azusa and Los Angeles County because not many
county- or City-specific studies have been conducted. Additional factors to consider include: habitat loss
and associated effects on wildlife, and the drawdown of the groundwater table. The City Planning Team
stated the biggest drought issue to natural resources was all the turf that died in medians and other public
areas. As a result, the City replanted these turf areas with water resistant landscaping.
Drought can exacerbate tree mortality in the City, creating a greater wildfire risk. This is discussed in
Section 4.3.12.
Future Development
Population growth in the City will add additional pressure to water companies during periods of drought
and water shortage. Water companies will need to continue to plan for and add infrastructure capacity for
population growth. Potable water in Azusa is provided by the Azusa Light and Water Department via local
groundwater primarily and via the San Gabriel River when groundwater is not sufficient and from the
Metropolitan Water District in extreme conditions. Azusa Light and Water has plans in place to handle
future water demand for the City.
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4.3.6. Earthquake Vulnerability Assessment
Likelihood of Future Occurrence—Likely
Vulnerability—Extremely High
Hazard/Problem Description
Earthquake vulnerability is primarily based on population and the built environment. Urban areas in high
seismic hazard zones are the most vulnerable, while uninhabited areas are less vulnerable. Earthquake
losses will vary across the City depending on the source and magnitude of the event. A map showing peak
ground accelerations in Azusa was shown in Figure 4-27. Based on this map, the City is located in a high
seismic risk area. Impacts from earthquake in Azusa include damages to residential and commercial
property, damage to critical facilities, damage to infrastructure, and possible injuries or deaths of citizens.
The earthquake scenario run for this LHMP provides a good estimate of loss to the City based on a realistic
earthquake scenario. The methodology and results of this scenario are described below.
2017 Earthquake Scenarios
HAZUS-MH 2.2 was utilized to model earthquake losses for the City. Specifically, the probable magnitude
used for Azusa utilized a 8.3 magnitude earthquake, based on data from the City of Azusa General Plan.
Level 1 analyses were run, meaning that only the default data was used and not supplemented with local
building inventory or hazard data. There are certain data limitations when using the default data, so the
results should be interpreted accordingly; this is a planning level analysis.
The methodology for running the probabilistic earthquake scenario used probabilistic seismic hazard
contour maps developed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) for the 2002 update of the National Seismic
Hazard Maps that are included with HAZUS-MH. The USGS maps provide estimates of potential ground
acceleration and spectral acceleration at periods of 0.3 second and 1.0 second, respectively. The 2,500 year
return period analyzes ground shaking estimates with a 2 percent probability of being exceeded in 50 years,
from the various seismic sources in the area. The International Building Code uses this level of ground
shaking for building design in seismic areas and is more of a worst case scenario.
The results of the probabilistic scenario are captured in Table 4-54. Key losses included the following:
➢ Total economic loss estimated for the earthquake was almost $1.476 billion, which includes building
losses and lifeline losses based on the HAZUS-MH inventory.
➢ Building-related losses, including direct building losses and business interruption losses, totaled almost
$1.44 billion.
➢ Over 45 percent of the buildings in the County were at least moderately damaged. 803 buildings were
completely destroyed.
➢ Over 52 percent of the building- and income-related losses were residential structures. 13 percent of
the estimated losses were related to business interruptions.
➢ There are an estimated 13 thousand buildings in the region with a total building replacement value
(excluding contents) of 4,761 (millions of dollars). Approximately 93.00 % of the buildings (and
77.00% of the building value) are associated with residential housing.
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➢ The replacement value of the transportation and utility lifeline systems is estimated to be $909 and $0
million, respectively.
➢ The mid-day earthquake caused the most casualties: 104
➢ 84.4 percent of the households experienced a loss of potable water the first day after the earthquake.
➢ 87.3 percent of the households experienced a loss of potable water the first day after the earthquake.
Table 4-54 Azusa – HAZUS-MH 2,500-year Earthquake Scenario Results
Impacts/Earthquake 8.3 Magnitude Earthquake
Residential Buildings Damaged
(Based upon 13,000 buildings)
Slight: 5,235
Moderate: 4,283
Extensive: 1,078
Complete: 803
Building Related Loss 1,444,250,000
Total Economic Loss $1,476,230,000
Injuries
(Based upon 2am time of
occurrence)
Without requiring hospitalization: 320
Requiring hospitalization: 78
Life Threatening: 10
Fatalities: 18
Injuries
(Based upon 2pm time of
occurrence)
Without requiring hospitalization: 1,046
Requiring hospitalization: 320
Life Threatening: 54
Fatalities: 104
Injuries
(Based upon 5pm time of
occurrence)
Without requiring hospitalization: 677
Requiring hospitalization: 217
Life Threatening: 54
Fatalities: 67
Essential Facility Damage
(Based upon 19 buildings)
None with significant damage.
Transportation and Utility Lifeline
Damage
18 bridges with at least moderate damage. 619 water line breaks. 444 waste
water line breaks. 127 natural gas line breaks.
Households w/out Power & Water
Service (Based upon 16,531
households)
Water loss @ Day 1: 13,954
Water loss @ Day 3: 13,524
Water loss @ Day 7: 12,372
Water loss @ Day 30: 0
Water loss @ Day 90: 0
Power loss @ Day 1: 14,425
Power loss @ Day 3: 11,049
Power loss @ Day 7: 6,250
Power loss @ Day 30: 1,678
Power loss @ Day 90: 17
Displaced Households 1,351
Shelter Requirements 1,336
Debris Generation 350,000 tons
Source: HAZUS-MH 2.2
Fires often occur after an earthquake. Because of the number of fires and the lack of water to fight the fires,
they can often burn out of control. HAZUS uses a Monte Carlo simulation model to estimate the number
of ignitions and the amount of burnt area. For this scenario, the model estimates that there will be no
ignitions.
The HMPC noted that all of Azusa's known URM's have either been demolished or retrofitted.
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Community Impact
The overall impact to the community from earthquake includes:
➢ Commercial and residential structural and property damage;
➢ Damage to natural resource habitats and other natural resources;
➢ Disruption of and damage to public infrastructure and services;
➢ Loss of water, power, roads, phones, and transportation, which could impact, strand, and/or impair
mobility for emergency responders and/or area residents;
➢ Economic losses (jobs, sales, tax revenue) associated with loss of commercial structures;
➢ Loss of churches, which could severely impact the social fabric of the community;
➢ Loss of schools, which could severely impact the entire school system and disrupt families and teachers,
as temporary facilities and relocations would likely be needed;
➢ Impact on the overall mental health of the community;
➢ Injury and loss of life; and
➢ Negative impact on commercial and residential property values.
Future Development
Any time construction is proposed in the City, plans are required to be submitted. The plans are reviewed
to ensure future development addresses earthquake and other seismically-induced impacts. As part of the
City’s Plan Check process, plans are reviewed by the Public Works Department, Building Division,
Planning Division, and Light and Water to ensure development projects comply with the current adopted
version of the California Building Code (CBC), and the City’s Municipal Code and Development Code.
Structural and infrastructure integrity relative to earthquake and other seismically-induced impacts are fully
reviewed and conditions of approval applied to each development through the Plan Check process.
4.3.7. Earthquake: Liquefaction Vulnerability Assessment
Likelihood of Future Occurrence—Occasional
Vulnerability—High
Hazard/Problem Description
Earthquake is discussed in the Section 4.3.6, but is primarily focused on the vulnerability of buildings and
people from earthquake shaking. This section deals with a secondary hazard associated with earthquake –
the possible collapse of structural integrity of the ground in liquefaction prone areas. Impacts from
liquefaction include property damage, critical facility damage, and life safety issues.
Values at Risk
The City of Azusa’s parcel layer and the Los Angeles County’s 2017 Assessor’s data was used as the basis
for the City inventory of parcels and their associated values. GIS was used to create a centroid, or point
representing the center of the parcel polygon. A liquefaction layer was obtained from the California
Department of Conservation – California Division of Mines and Geology. The liquefaction layer was then
overlaid on the parcel layer that was then joined to the County Assessor’s data. For the purposes of this
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analysis, the liquefaction zone that intersected a parcel centroid was assigned the liquefaction risk zone for
the entire parcel. The parcels were segregated and analyzed in this fashion for the City of Azusa. Once
completed, the parcel boundary layer was joined to the centroid layer and values were transferred based on
the identification number in the Assessors database and the GIS parcel layer. The liquefaction zone for the
City are shown in Figure 4-52. Details on risk to the City from liquefaction, by property use is shown on
Table 4-55.
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Figure 4-52 Azusa – Liquefaction Risk Zones
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Table 4-55 Azusa – Parcel Count and Values within Liquefaction Risk Zone by Property Use
Liquefaction
Zone /
Property Use
Total Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents
Value
Total Value
Within Liquefaction Zone
Commercial 227 148 $66,607,883 $40,085,640 $40,085,640 $146,779,163
Government 66 3 $2,437,707 $268,648 $268,648 $2,975,003
Industrial 201 160 $130,658,300 $139,214,090 $208,821,135 $478,693,525
Institutional 22 21 $28,681,057 $82,942,046 $82,942,046 $194,565,149
Miscellaneous 62 16 $7,394,614 $1,383,445 $1,383,445 $10,161,504
Residential 3,960 3,808 $591,797,003 $596,782,125 $298,391,063 $1,486,970,191
Open - No
Use Code
189 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Within
Liquefaction
Zone Total
4,727 4,156 $827,576,564 $860,675,994 $631,891,977 $2,320,144,535
Source: California Division of Mines and Geology, City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
Population at Risk
The liquefaction zones were overlayed on the parcel layer. Those residential parcel centroids that fell within
the liquefaction zone were counted and multiplied by the 2010 Census Bureau average household factors
for the City of Azusa (3.43). This is shown in Table 4-59.
Table 4-56 Azusa– Count of Improved Residential Parcels and Population within
Liquefaction Zone
Liquefaction Zone Improved Residential Parcels Population
Within Liquefaction Zone 3,808 13,061
Total 3,808 13,061
Source: California Division of Mines and Geology, City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
Critical Facilities at Risk
An analysis was performed on the critical facility inventory in Azusa in the City’s identified liquefaction
zone. GIS was used to determine whether the facility locations fell within the liquefaction zone. Details
of critical facilities within the liquefaction zone for the City are shown in Figure 4-53 and Table 4-57.
Details of critical facility definition, type, name and address and jurisdiction within the liquefaction zone
are listed in Appendix E.
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Figure 4-53 Azusa – Critical Facilities in Liquefaction Risk Zone
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Table 4-57 Azusa – Critical Facilities in Liquefaction Risk Zone
Facility Name Facility Count
Essential Services
Azusa Public Works 1
City Hall 1
Fire Station 32 1
Police 1
Railroad Overpass 1
Essential Services Total 5
At Risk Populations
Azusa Montessori Academy 1
Dalton Elementary 1
Hodge Elementary 1
Little Gems Learning & Daycare 1
Saint Frances of Rome School 1
Silverado Sierra Vista Car Community 1
Slauson Middle School 1
Soldano Senior Village 1
At Risk Populations Total 8
Within Liquefaction Zone Total 13
Source: California Division of Mines and Geology, City of Azusa GIS
Community Impact
The overall impact to the community from earthquake induced liquefaction includes:
➢ Commercial and residential structural and property damage;
➢ Damage to natural resource habitats and other resources, such as timber and rangeland;
➢ Disruption of and damage to public infrastructure and services;
➢ Loss of water, power, roads, phones, and transportation, which could impact, strand, and/or impair
mobility for emergency responders and/or area residents;
➢ Economic losses (jobs, sales, tax revenue) associated with loss of commercial structures;
➢ Loss of churches, which could severely impact the social fabric of the community;
➢ Loss of schools, which could severely impact the entire school system and disrupt families and teachers,
as temporary facilities and relocations would likely be needed;
➢ Impact on the overall mental health of the community;
➢ Injury and loss of life; and
➢ Negative impact on commercial and residential property values.
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Future Development
Future development areas for the City are broken out into eight areas. GIS data is maintained by the City
of Azusa, and was made available for this plan. An analysis was performed to quantify parcels within these
areas that are also in liquefaction hazard areas. Results can provide information on how and where to grow
in the future. GIS was used to create a centroid, or point representing the center of the parcel polygon.
Those parcels centroids that fall inside the future development areas and that were within the liquefaction
area were selected and tabulated in Figure 4-54 and shown in Table 4-58.
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Figure 4-54 Azusa – Future Development Areas in Liquefaction Risk Zone
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Table 4-58 Azusa – Future Development Areas in Liquefaction Risk Zone
Future Development Areas Parcels Acres Liquefaction Potential
803-813 N Dalton Ave 4 1 Within the Liquefaction Zone
A2 6 2 Within the Liquefaction Zone
Atlantis Gardens 40 6 Within and Not Within the Liquefaction Zone
Block 36 1 2 Within the Liquefaction Zone
Block 37 9 1 Within the Liquefaction Zone
Colorama 1 23 Within the Liquefaction Zone
Lagunitas 1 22 Within the Liquefaction Zone
Smart & Final Extra 6 1 Within the Liquefaction Zone
Grand Total 68 58
Source: California Division of Mines and Geology, City of Azusa GIS
4.3.8. Flood: 1%/0.2% Annual Chance Vulnerability Assessment
Likelihood of Future Occurrence—Occasional/Unlikely
Vulnerability—Medium to High
Hazard/Problem Description
Flooding in the City can occur any time from fall to spring as a result of the occurrence of general
rainstorms. General rain floods result from prolonged, heavy rainfall over tributary areas and are
characterized by high peak flows and moderate duration and a large volume of runoff. Flooding is more
severe when antecedent rainfall has resulted in saturated ground condition.
Flooding has historically occurred in the City, and the vulnerability to flood damages is high. Flood impacts
in the City can include property damage, critical facility damage, health risks, and life safety issues. This
section quantifies the vulnerability of Azusa to the 1% and 0.2% annual chance floods.
Values at Risk
The City of Azusa has mapped FEMA flood hazard areas. The City of Azusa parcel layer and Los Angeles
County’s 2017 Assessor’s data were used as the basis for the City inventory of parcels, values, and acres.
GIS was used to determine the possible impacts of flooding within the City and how the risk varies across
the City. Maps and analysis tables detailing the FEMA flood hazard in the City are provided below. The
following methodology was followed in determining parcels and values at risk to the 1% annual chance
(i.e., 100-year) flood and 0.2% annual chance (i.e., 500-year) flood.
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Methodology
Flood Parcel Inventory and Assessed Values
Azusa’s 2017 parcel layer and Assessor’s data were used as the basis for the City inventory of parcels,
values, and acres. The City of Azusa has a FEMA DFIRM dated January 6, 2016 which was utilized to
perform the flood analysis.
In some cases there are parcels in multiple flood zones, such as Zone A, Zone X, or Shaded X. GIS was
used to create a centroid, or point representing the center of the parcel polygon. DFIRM flood data was
then overlaid on the parcel layer. For the purposes of this analysis, the flood zone that intersected a parcel
centroid was assigned the flood zone for the entire parcel. The parcels were segregated and analyzed in
this fashion for the City of Azusa Planning Area. Once completed, the parcel boundary layer was joined to
the centroid layer and values were transferred based on the identification number in the Assessors database
and the GIS parcel layer.
Flood Loss Estimate
Using the data generated during the values at risk analysis, a flood loss estimate provides additional
information as to what is potentially at risk to a 1% and 0.2% annual chance flood events. Unlike the values
at risk which provide actual assessed values for parcels located within each FEMA flood zone, the flood
loss estimate applies estimates of what may actually be at loss to a given flood event. The loss estimate for
flood is based on the total of improved values obtained from the values at risk analysis and adds estimated
contents values and a damage factor.
Improved parcels include those with improved structure values identified in the Assessor’s database. Only
improved parcels and the value of their structure improvements were included in the flood loss analysis.
The value of land is not included in the loss estimates as generally the land is not at loss to floods, just the
value of improvements and structure contents. The land value is represented in the detailed flood tables as
shown above, but are only present to show the value of the land associated with each flood zone.
The property use categories for the City (derived from the Los Angeles County Assessor Use Code
categories and Use Code Descriptions) were used to develop estimated content replacement values (CRV)
that are potentially at loss from hazards, using FEMA Hazus methodologies as pr eviously described in
Section 4.3.1. The CRVs were added to the improved parcel values.
Once the potential value of affected parcels was calculated, a damage factor was applied to obtain loss
estimates by flood zone. When a flood occurs, seldom does the event cause total loss of an area or building.
Potential losses from flooding are related to a variety of factors including flood depth, flood velocity,
building type, and construction. The percent of damage is primarily related to the flood depth. FEMA’s
flood benefit/cost module uses a simplified approach to model flood damage based on building type and
flood depth. The values at risk in the flood analysis tables were refined by applying an average damage
estimation of 20% of the total building value. The 20% damage estimate utilized FEMA’s Flood Building
Loss Table based on an assumed average flood depth of 2 feet.
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Each of the City of Azusa DFIRM flood zones that begins with the letter ‘A’ depict the Special Flood
Hazard Area, or the 1% annual chance flood event (commonly referred to as the 100-year flood). Table
4-59 details the DFIRM mapped flood zones within the 1% annual chance flood zone as well as other flood
zones located within the City, and also includes flood zone information for Los Angeles County which is
also depicted in the City flood maps. The effective DFIRM maps for the City of Azusa are shown on Figure
4-55.
Table 4-59 Azusa– DFIRM Flood Hazard Zones
Flood
Zone
Description Flood Zone Present
in Azusa
Flood Zone Present
in Los Angeles
County
A 1% Annual Chance or 100-year Flood: No base flood
elevations provided
X X
Shaded X 500-year flood the areas between the limits of the 1%
annual chance flood and the 0.2-percent-annual-chance (or
500-year) flood
X X
X No flood hazard X X
D Unmapped Areas X X
Source: FEMA
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Figure 4-55 Azusa – DFIRM Flood Zones
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The end result of the flood hazard analysis is an inventory of the numbers, types, and values of parcels
subject to the flood hazard. Results are presented for the City of Azusa, by property use.
Limitations
It also should be noted that the resulting flood loss estimates may actually be more or less than that presented
in the below tables as the City may include structures located on parcels within the 1% annual chance
floodplain that are actually outside the floodplain boundaries or otherwise elevated at or above the level of
the base flood elevation, according to local floodplain development requirements. Also, it is important to
keep in mind that these assessed values may be well b elow the actual market value of improved parcels
located within the various flood zones due to proposition 13.
City of Azusa Values at Risk: Flood Analysis Results
Table 4-60 and Table 4-61 contain flood analysis results for the City of Azusa. Table 4-60 identifies parcels
and associated values at risk by property use and detailed flood zone. This table shows the number of total
parcels, improved parcels, and land and improved values at risk to each of the FEMA flood zones and also
shows these potential losses summarized by 1% and 0.2% annual chance events.
Table 4-60 Azusa – Parcel Counts and Values in Flood Zones by Property Use
Flood Zone /
Property Use
Total
Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel
Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents
Value
Total Value
1% Annual Chance Flood Hazard
Zone A
Commercial 1 0 $48,991 $0 $0 $48,991
Government 4 0 $44,923 $0 $0 $44,923
Industrial 0 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Institutional 0 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Miscellaneous 2 0 $1,146 $0 $0 $1,146
Residential 8 1 $18,427 $1,365 $683 $20,475
Open - No
Use Code
3 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Zone A Total 18 1 $113,487 $1,365 $683 $115,535
1% Annual
Chance
Flood Total
18 1 $113,487 $1,365 $683 $115,535
0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard (Zone X – shaded)
Commercial 0 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Government 0 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Industrial 0 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Institutional 0 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
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Flood Zone /
Property Use
Total
Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel
Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents
Value
Total Value
Miscellaneous 0 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Residential 27 12 $5,215,277 $4,543,612 $2,271,806 $12,030,695
Open - No
Use Code
2 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
0.2% Annual
Chance
Flood
Hazard Total
29 12 $5,215,277 $4,543,612 $2,271,806 $12,030,695
Zone X (unshaded) – Outside Flood Hazard Zones
Commercial 395 279 $204,220,095 $138,227,311 $138,227,311 $480,674,717
Government 111 4 $7,143,940 $309,405 $309,405 $7,762,750
Industrial 391 340 $256,016,779 $289,020,763 $433,531,145 $978,568,687
Institutional 37 36 $33,901,377 $125,509,459 $125,509,459 $284,920,295
Miscellaneous 73 14 $8,355,479 $2,808,674 $2,808,674 $13,972,827
Residential 7,481 7,152 $1,193,284,115 $1,140,332,466 $570,166,233 $2,903,782,814
Open - No
Use Code
266 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Zone X
(unshaded)
Total
8,754 7,825 $1,702,921,785 $1,696,208,078 $1,270,552,227 $4,669,682,090
Zone D (unmapped)
Commercial 2 0 $140,892 $0 $0 $140,892
Government 26 0 $430,000 $0 $0 $430,000
Industrial 19 0 $946,632 $0 $0 $946,632
Institutional 1 1 $1,103,334 $1,613,654 $1,613,654 $4,330,642
Miscellaneous 19 9 $4,796,703 $438,862 $438,862 $5,674,427
Residential 1,019 917 $213,075,665 $231,851,573 $115,925,787 $560,853,025
Open - No
Use Code
23 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Zone D
(unmapped)
Total
1,109 927 $220,493,226 $233,904,089 $117,978,303 $572,375,618
Grand Total 9,910 8,765 $1,928,743,775 $1,934,657,144 $1,390,803,018 $5,254,203,937
Source: FEMA DFIRM 1/6/2016, City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
Table 4-61 gives details on flood loss estimates by flood zone and property use. The loss estimate for flood
is based on the total of improved and CRVs and includes a 20% damage factor as previously described.
The loss ratio is the loss estimate divided by the total potential exposure (i.e., total of improved and contents
value for all parcels located in the City of Azusa) and displayed as a percentage of loss. FEMA considers
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loss ratios greater than 10% to be significant and an indicator that a community may have more difficulties
recovering from a flood. The City should keep in mind that the loss ratio could increase with additional
development in the 1% and 0.2% annual chance floodplain, unless development is elevated in accordance
with the local floodplain management ordinance.
Table 4-61 Azusa– Flood Loss Estimates Summary
Property Use Improved
Parcel
Count
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents Value
Total Value Loss
Estimate
Loss
Ratio
1% Annual Chance
Flood
1 $1,365 $683 $2,048 $410 0.00%
0.2% Annual Chance
Flood
12 $4,543,612 $2,271,806 $6,815,418 $1,363,084 0.02%
Total 13 $4,544,977 $2,272,489 $6,817,466 $1,363,494 0.02%
Source: FEMA DFIRM 1/6/2016, City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
According to the information in Table 4-60 through Table 4-61, the City of Azusa has 1 improved parcel
and roughly $2,048 of structure and contents value in the 1% annual chance floodplain. The City has 12
parcels and roughly $6.8 million in structure and contents values in the 0.2% annual chance floodplain.
The loss estimate refines these values a step further. Applying the 20 percent damage factor as previously
described, there is a 1% chance in any given year of a flood event causing roughly $410 in damage in the
City of Azusa. Applying the same factor, there is a 0.2% chance of a flood event causing $1.36 million in
damage to the City (since the 0.2% annual chance floodplain also encompasses the 1% annual chance
floodplain). A loss ratio of 0.02% indicates that while the City has minimal values at risk in the floodplain,
flood losses would be very limited compared to the total built environment and the community would likely
be able to recover adequately.
Flooded Acres
Also of interest is the land area affected by the various flood zones. The following is an analysis of flooded
acres in Azusa.
Methodology
GIS was used to calculate acres flooded by FEMA flood zones and property use categories. The Los
Angeles County parcel layer for the City and FEMA DFIRM were intersected, and each segment divided
by the intersection of flood zone and parcels was calculated for acres. This process was conducted for 1%
and 0.2% annual chance flood areas, with each segment being defined by zone type and acres. The resulting
data tables with flooded acreages were then imported into a database and linked back to the original parcels,
including total acres by parcel number. Once this was completed, each parcel contained acreage values for
flooded acre by zone type within the parcel. In the tables below, the 1% a nd 0.2% annual chance flood
zones are summarized and then split out by property use, their total flooded acres, total improved acres, and
percent of improved acres that are flooded.
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It is important to keep in mind that this methodology assumes that improvements are uniformly found
throughout the parcel, while in reality only portions of the parcel are improved, and improvements may or
may not fall within the flood zone portion of a parcel. Thus, areas of flooded improvements calculated
through this method may be higher or lower than those presented.
Table 4-62 provides detailed flooded acres information by property use and detailed flood zone for the City.
Table 4-64 provides summary flooded acres by zone for the City.
Table 4-62 Azusa – Flooded Acres by Flood Zone by Property Use
Flood Zone Total Flooded Acres Improved Flooded Acres
Commercial
1% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 4 0
0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 0 0
Commercial Total 4 0
Government
1% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 82 0
0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 0 0
Government Total 82 0
Industrial
1% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 0 0
0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 0 0
Industrial Total 0 0
Institutional
1% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 0 0
0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 0 0
Institutional Total 0 0
Miscellaneous
1% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 6 3
0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 0 0
Miscellaneous Total 6 3
Residential
1% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 24 4
0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 8 2
Residential Total 32 6
Open - No Use Code
1% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 24 0
0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 1 0
Open - No Use Code Total 25 0
Source: FEMA DFIRM 1/6/2016, City of Azusa Parcel Layer
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Table 4-63 Azusa – Flooded Acres Summary
Flood Zone Total Flooded
Acres
Improved Flooded
Acres
% of Improved Flooded Acres
1% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 141 7 0.3%
0.2% Annual Chance Flood Hazard 8 2 0.1%
Other Areas 5,223 2,395 99.6%
Total 5,372 2,404 100.0%
Source: FEMA DFIRM 1/6/2016, City of Azusa Parcel Layer
Population at Risk
The DFIRM flood zones were overlayed on the parcel layer. Those residential parcel centroids that intersect
the flood zones were counted and multiplied by the 2010 Census Bureau average household factors for the
City of Azusa (3.43). This is shown in Table 4-64.
Table 4-64 Azusa – Count of Improved Residential Parcels and Population by Flood Zone
Flood Zone Improved Residential Parcels Population
A 1 3
Total 1% Annual Chance 1 3
0.2% Annual Chance (Shaded X) 12 41
Grand Total 13 44
Source: City of Azusa Parcel Layer; FEMA DFIRM 1/6/2016, US Census Bureau
NFIP Insurance Coverage Details
The City of Azusa joined the NFIP on September 7, 1984. The City does not currently participate in the
Community Rating System. NFIP insurance data provided by DWR indicates that as of February 19, 2016,
there were 41 policies in force in the City, resulting in $10,798,700 of insurance in force. Total premiums
paid total $28,682. Of these 41 policies, 34 are for single family homes, 1 is for a multiple family home, 5
are for other residential properties, and 1 is for a non-residential property. Of the 41 policies, 0 are in
FEMA 1% annual chance flood zones, 17 are in D Zones, and 27 are in B, C, or X zones (all are preferred
policies). There has been 1 closed paid loss totaling $750. It was for a single-family home in a D Zone,
and was a pre-FIRM loss. There have been no substantial damage claims, nor are there any repetitive loss
or severe repetitive loss properties in the City.
Cultural and Natural Resources at Risk
The City has significant historical, cultural, and natural resources located throughout the City as previously
described. Risk analysis of these resources was not possible due to data limitations. However, any facility
or resource located in a flood zone is potentially at risk from flooding.
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Critical Facilities at Risk
An analysis was performed on the critical facility inventory in Azusa in identified DFIRM flood zones.
GIS was used to determine whether the facility locations intersects a flood zone, and if so, which zone it
intersects. Details of critical facilities and flood zones for the City are shown in Figure 4-56. As seen on
the figure, there are no critical facilities in the DFIRM 1% and 0.2% annual chance flood zones in the City
of Azusa.
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Figure 4-56 Azusa – Critical Facilities in FEMA DFIRM Flood Zones
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Overall Community Impact
Floods and their impacts vary by location and severity of any given event and will likely only affect certain
areas of the City during specific times. Based on the risk assessment, it is evident that floods will continue
to have potential economic impacts to certain areas of the Azusa. However, many floods in the City are
minor, localized events that cause nominal damage rather than a disaster. Impacts that are not quantified,
but can be anticipated in large future events, include:
➢ Commercial and residential structural and property damage;
➢ Costs incurred due to post-flood clean up and repair of buildings and infrastructure;
➢ Damage to roads/bridges resulting in loss of mobility;
➢ Decreased revenue due to loss of income, sales, tourism, and property taxes;
➢ Deterioration of homes and neighborhoods as floods recur;
➢ Disruption of and damage to public infrastructure and services;
➢ Health hazards associated with mold and mildew, contamination of drinking water, etc.;
➢ Impact on the overall mental health of the community;
➢ Injury and loss of life, including first responders rescuing those who did not evacuate or are stranded;
➢ Loss of historical or unique artifacts;
➢ Loss of jobs due to businesses closing or cutting back on operating hours;
➢ Loss of programs or services that are cut to pay for flood recovery;
➢ Mental health and family impacts, including increased occurrence of suicides and divorce
➢ Negative impact on commercial and residential property values;
➢ Significant disruption to students and teachers as temporary facilities and relocations would likely be
needed; and
➢ Significant economic impact (jobs, sales, tax revenue) to the community.
Future Development
Future development areas for the City are broken out into eight areas. GIS data is maintained by the City
of Azusa, and was made available for this plan. An analysis was performed to quantify parcels within these
areas that are also in FEMA DFIRM flood hazard areas. Results can provide information on how and where
to grow in the future. GIS was used to create a centroid, or point representing the center of the parcel
polygon. Those parcels centroids that fall inside the future development areas and that were within the
DFIRM flood zones are shown on Figure 4-57 and detailed in Table 4-65.
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Figure 4-57 Azusa – Future Development Areas in FEMA DFIRM Flood Zones
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Table 4-65 Azusa – Future Development Areas by DFIRM Flood Zone
Future Development Areas Parcels Acres Flood Zones
803-813 N Dalton Ave 4 1 Other Areas - Zone X (unshaded)
A2 6 2 Other Areas - Zone X (unshaded)
Atlantis Gardens 40 6 Other Areas - Zone X (unshaded)
Block 36 1 2 Other Areas - Zone X (unshaded)
Block 37 9 1 Other Areas - Zone X (unshaded)
Colorama 1 23 Other Areas - Zone X (unshaded)
Lagunitas 1 22 Other Areas - Zone X (unshaded)
Smart & Final Extra 6 1 Other Areas - Zone X (unshaded)
Grand Total 68 58
Source: FEMA DFIRM 1/6/2016, City of Azusa GIS
ARkStorm Scenario
Although much attention in California’s focuses on the “Big One” as a high magnitude earthquake, there is
the risk of another significant event in California – a massive, statewide winter storm. The last such storms
occurred in the 19th century, outside the memory of current emergency managers, officials, and
communities. However, massive storms are a recurring feature of the state, the source of rare but inevitable
disasters. The USGS Multi Hazards Demonstration Project’s (MHDP) developed a product called
ARkStorm, which addressed massive U.S. West Coast storms analogous to those that devastated California
in 1861‐1862. Over the last decade, scientists have determined that the largest storms in California are the
product of phenomena called Atmospheric Rivers, and so the MHDP storm scenario is called the
ARkStorm, for Atmospheric River 1000 (a measure of the storm’s size).
Scientific studies of offshore deposits in northern and southern California indicate that storms of this
magnitude and larger have occurred about as often as large earthquakes on the southern San Andreas Fault.
Such storms are projected to become more frequent and intense as a result of climate change. This scientific
effort resulted in a plausible flood hazard scenario to be used as a planning and preparation tool by hazard
mitigation and emergency response agencies.
For the ARkStorm Scenario, experts designed a large, scientifically realistic meteorological event followed
by an examination of the secondary hazards (e.g., landslides and flooding), physical damages to the intense
winter storms of 1861‐62 that left California’s Central Valley impassible. Storms far larger than the
ARkStorm, dubbed megastorms, have also hit California at least six times in the last two millennia.
The ARkStorm produces precipitation in many places exceeding levels experienced on average every 500
to 1,000 years. Extensive flooding in many cases overwhelms the state’s flood protection system, which is
at best designed to resist 100‐ to 200‐year runoffs (many flood protection systems in the state were designed
for much smaller runoff events). The Central Valley experiences widespread flooding. Serious flooding
also occurs in Orange County, Los Angeles County, San Diego, the San Francisco Bay Area, and other
coastal communities. In some places, winds reach hurricane speeds, as high as 125 miles per hour.
Hundreds of landslides occur, damaging roads, highways, and homes. Property damage exceeds $300
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billion, most of it from flooding. Agricultural losses and other costs to repair lifelines, dewater flooded
islands, and repair damage from landslides brings the total direct property loss to nearly $400 billion, of
which only $20 to $30 billion would be recoverable through public and commercial insurance. Power,
water, sewer, and other lifelines experience damage that takes weeks or months to restore. Flooding
evacuation could involve over one million residents in the inland region and Delta counties.
A storm of ARkStorm’s magnitude has important implications: 1) it raises serious questions about the
ability of existing national, state, and local disaster policy to handle an event of this magnitude; 2) it
emphasizes the choice between paying now to mitigate, or paying a lot more later to recover; 3) innovative
financing solutions are likely to be needed to avoid fiscal crisis and adequately fund response and recovery
costs; 4) responders and government managers at all levels should be encouraged to conduct self‐
assessments and devise table‐top exercises to exercise their ability to address a similar event; 5) the scenario
can be a reference point for application of FEMA and Cal OES guidance connecting federal, state, and local
natural hazards mapping and mitigation planning under the NFIP and Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000; and
6) common messages to educate the public about the risk of such an extreme event could be developed and
consistently communicated to facilitate policy formulation and transformation.
Figure 4-58 depicts an ARkStorm modeled scenario showing the potential for flooding in the Los Angeles
Valley as the result of a large storm. The modeled scenario suggests that Azusa could face inundation.
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Figure 4-58 Projected ARkStorm Flooding in California
Source: USGS ArkStorm
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4.3.9. Flood: Localized Stormwater Flooding Vulnerability Assessment
Likelihood of Future Occurrence—Highly Likely
Vulnerability—Medium
Hazard/Problem Description
Historically, the City has been at risk to flooding primarily during the spring months when river systems in
the City swell with heavy rainfall. Localized flooding also occurs throughout the City at various times
throughout the year.
Stormwater has the potential to damage public infrastructure and private property in all areas of the City.
The most severe damage typically occurs when warm heavy rain falls on previously saturated ground.
These storm events bring a higher than normal flow of water that can exceed the capacity of ditches and
channels. The flooding can be more intense and problematic in areas with steep slopes where the water is
more likely to carry heavy silt and rocks, filling rains and plugging culverts.
Table 4-66 lists the road that has experienced localized flooding and related events. The flooding events
on this road triggered debris removal (at a minimum) with most requiring more extensive maintenance.
Typically, debris removal and associated issues routinely included downed trees, heavy mud, pavement
deterioration and washouts.
Table 4-66 City of Azusa – Localized Flooding Areas
Road Name Flooding
Pavement
Deterioration Washouts
High
Water/
Creek
Crossing
Landslides/
Mudslides Debris
Downed
Trees
Encananto
Parkway
X X X X X X –
Source: City of Azusa
The Housing Element Initial Study noted wind and water both cause erosion that could be deposited in local
or regional washes and other water bodies. Impacts related to erosion and siltation will be less than
significant.
Future Development
The risk of stormwater/localized flooding to future development can be minimized by accurate
recordkeeping of repetitive localized storm activity. Mitigating the root causes of the localized stormwater
or choosing not to develop in areas that often are subject to localized flooding will reduce future risks of
losses due to stormwater/localized flooding.
Due to the urbanized nature of the City and the protection of existing open spaces, future housing
development will not substantially alter the drainage pattern of the area, and will not result in substantial
erosion or siltation on or off site. Future housing development on the Opportunity Areas and other projects
constructed pursuant to General Plan policies will be required to implement standard on-site drainage
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controls and storm water conveyance devices to direct any drainage appropriately, both during construction
and on a long-term basis
The potential for flooding may increase as storm water is channelized due to land development. Such
changes can create localized flooding problems in and outside of natural floodplains by altering or confining
natural drainage channels. Floodplain modeling and master planning should be based on the ultimate built-
out land use in order to assure that all new development remains safe from future hydrologic conditions.
While local floodplain management, stormwater management, and water quality regulations and policies
address these changes on a site-by-site basis, their cumulative effects can result in floodplain impac ts
regardless. Without effective mitigation, additional growth and redevelopment in the City could contribute
to increased localized flooding.
4.3.10. Levee Failure Vulnerability Assessment
Likelihood of Future Occurrence—Unlikely
Vulnerability—Medium
Hazard/Problem Description
Levee failure flooding can occur as the result of partial or complete collapse of an impoundment, and often
results from prolonged rainfall and flooding. The primary danger associated with dam or levee failure is
the high velocity flooding of those properties downstream of the breach.
A levee failure can range from a small, uncontrolled release to a catastrophic failure. Vulnerability to levee
failures is generally confined to the areas subject to inundation downstream of the facility. Secondary losses
would include loss of the multi-use functions of the facility and associated revenues that accompany those
functions.
Levee failure flooding would vary in the Planning Area depending on which structure fails and the nature
and extent of the failure and associated flooding. This flooding presents a threat to life and property,
including buildings, their contents, and their use. Large flood events can affect lifeline utilities (e.g., water,
sewerage, and power), transportation, jobs, tourism, the environment, agricultural industry, and the local
and regional economies.
Based on input from the City Planning Team, the following concerns were identified with respect to a
potential failure of a levee within the City:
➢ Industrial, commercial, and residential buildings, roads, and natural and man-made open space within
the levee protected areas, as well as other areas of the City, could be subjected to:
✓ Rapid inundation
✓ Concentration of high-energy flood waters in the area of the failure
✓ Larger area extent of inundation
➢ Residential and business property owners and tenants could lose everything and could not recover
financially.
➢ Massive damage to the levee could leave property owners and tenants without protection until levee is
repaired.
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Assets at Risk
There are levee systems in the City, most notably the SGR7 levee. This levee is not accredited by FEMA
as providing protection against the 100-year flood. Due to this, no GIS analysis could be performed on
leveed zones in the City. However, buildings and people living and working in areas protected by levees
are vulnerable to the effects of failures.
A search of the National Levee database does show leveed areas in the western portion of the City along
the banks of the San Gabriel River. This can be seen in Figure 4-59.
Figure 4-59 City of Azusa – Levee Protected Areas
Source: National Levee Database
Purple – approximate areas protected by levees.
Future Development
Any time construction is proposed in the City, plans are required to be submitted. The plans are reviewed
to ensure future development addresses earthquake and other seismically-induced impacts. As part of the
City’s Plan Check process, plans are reviewed by the Public Works Department, Building Division,
Planning Division, and Light and Water to ensure development projects comply with the current adopted
version of the California Building Code (CBC), and the City’s Municipal Code and Development Code.
Structural and infrastructure integrity relative to earthquake and other seismically-induced impacts are fully
reviewed and conditions of approval applied to each development through the Plan Check process.
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4.3.11. Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms Vulnerability Assessment
Likelihood of Future Occurrence—Highly Likely
Vulnerability—Medium
Hazard/Problem Description
According to historical hazard data, severe weather is an annual occurrence in Azusa. Damage and disaster
declarations related to severe weather have occurred and will continue to occur in the future. Heavy rain
and storms are the most frequent type of severe weather occurrences in the City. High winds often
accompany these storms and have caused damage in the past. Damages in the past have included downed
trees, utility outages, infrastructure damages, and transportation issues. However, actual damage associated
with the primary effects of severe weather has been limited in the City. It is the secondary hazards caused
by weather, such as floods and mudslides that have had the greatest impact. The risk and vulnerability
associated with these secondary hazards are discussed in other sections of this plan.
Future Development
New critical facilities should be built to withstand heavy rains and storms including, thunderstorm winds.
While no damages have occurred to critical facilities in the past due to heavy rains and storms, there still
remains future risk. With development occurring in the region, future losses to new development may
occur.
4.3.12. Wildfire Vulnerability Assessment
Likelihood of Future Occurrence—Likely
Vulnerability—High
During the April to October primary fire season, the dry vegetation and hot and sometimes windy weather,
can result in an increase in the number of ignitions. Any fire, once ignited, has the potential to quickly
become a large, out-of-control fire. Wildfires can cause short-term and long-term disruption to the City.
High intensity wildfires can have devastating effects on watersheds through loss of vegetation and soil
erosion, which may impact the City by changing runoff patterns, increasing sedimentation, reducing natural
and reservoir water storage capacity, and degrading water quality. This may lead to landslides in the City.
Fires may result in casualties and can destroy buildings and infrastructure.
Although the physical damages and casualties arising from wildland-urban interface fires may be severe, it
is important to recognize that they also cause significant economic impacts by resulting in a loss of function
of buildings and infrastructure. In some cases, the economic impact of this loss of services may be
comparable to the economic impact of physical damages or, in some cases, even greater. Economic impacts
of loss of transportation and utility services may include traffic delays/detours from road and bridge closures
and loss of electric power, potable water, and wastewater services. Fires can also cause major damage to
power plants and power lines needed to distribute electricity to operate facilities.
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Communities at Risk
The National Fire Plan is a cooperative, long-term effort between various government agency partners with
the intent of actively responding to severe wildland fires and their impacts to communities while ensuring
sufficient firefighting capacity for the future. For purposes of the National Fire Plan, CAL FIRE generated
a list of California communities at risk for wildfire. Three main factors were used to determine the wildfire
threat in the wildland-urban interface areas of California: fuel hazards, probability of fire, and areas of
suitable housing density that could create wildland urban interface fire protection strategy situations. The
preliminary criteria and methodology for evaluating wildfire risk to communities is published in the Federal
Register, January 4, 2001. It should be noted that the City of Azusa is considered a Community at Risk.
Fire Responsibility Areas
Fire protection in California is the responsibility of either the federal, state, or local government. On
federally owned land, or federal responsibility areas (FRA), fire protection is provided by the federal
government and in some cases in cooperation with state and local government agreements or contracts. In
state responsibility areas (SRA), CAL FIRE typically provides fire protection. Local responsibility areas
(LRA) include incorporated cities and cultivated agriculture lands, and fire protection is typically provided
by city fire departments, fire protection districts, counties, and by CAL FIRE under contract to local
government. Figure 4-60 shows the FRA, SRA, and LRA for the City of Azusa.
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Figure 4-60 Azusa – FRA, SRA, LRA Wildfire Areas
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Fire Responsibility Areas and Values at Risk
The FRA in the City is relatively small. There are no SRA areas in the City. The LRA covers the majority
of the City. The FRA contains no improved parcels. As such, the LRA contains all of the improved parcels
in the City. It should be noted that fire does not just affect structural values, fire can also affect land values.
As such the Assessor’s land values and all parcels were accounted for in this analysis to represent total
county assets at risk. However, it is highly unlikely the whole City will ever be on fire at once. The City
parcel inventory and associated values by responsibility area are provided in Table 4-67.
Table 4-67 Azusa – Count and Values at Risk in Local, State, and Federal Responsibility Areas
by Property Use with Contents Replacement Values
Fire
Responsibility
Areas /
Property Use
Total Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents
Value
Total Value
Commercial
FRA 0 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
LRA 398 279 $204,409,978 $138,227,311 $138,227,311 $480,864,600
Commercial
Total
398 279 $204,409,978 $138,227,311 $138,227,311 $480,864,600
Government
FRA 13 0 $1,051,973 $0 $0 $1,051,973
LRA 128 4 $6,566,890 $309,405 $309,405 $7,185,700
Government
Total
141 4 $7,618,863 $309,405 $309,405 $8,237,673
Industrial
FRA 0 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
LRA 410 340 $256,963,411 $289,020,763 $433,531,145 $979,515,319
Industrial
Total
410 340 $256,963,411 $289,020,763 $433,531,145 $979,515,319
Institutional
FRA - - $0 $0 $0 $0
LRA 38 37 $35,004,711 $127,123,113 $127,123,113 $289,250,937
Institutional
Total
38 37 $35,004,711 $127,123,113 $127,123,113 $289,250,937
Miscellaneous
FRA 1 - $9,729 $0 $0 $9,729
LRA 93 23 $13,143,599 $3,247,536 $3,247,536 $19,638,671
Miscellaneous
Total
94 23 $13,153,328 $3,247,536 $3,247,536 $19,648,400
Residential
FRA - - $0 $0 $0 $0
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Fire
Responsibility
Areas /
Property Use
Total Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents
Value
Total Value
LRA 8,535 8,082 $1,411,593,484 $1,376,729,016 $688,364,508 $3,476,687,008
Residential
Total
8,535 8,082 $1,411,593,484 $1,376,729,016 $688,364,508 $3,476,687,008
Open - No Use Code
FRA 1 - $0 $0 $0 $0
LRA 293 - $0 $0 $0 $0
Open - No
Use Code
Total
294 - $0 $0 $0 $0
Grand Total 9,910 8,765 $1,928,743,775 $1,934,657,144 $1,390,803,018 $5,254,203,937
Source: CAL FIRE, City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
Tree Mortality and Wildfire
While tree mortality is an issue in the State of California, it is not an issue of concern for the City Planning
Team. They noted that during the recent droughts, which were some of the worst in memory, most of the
impacts were to the turfed areas of the City.
Burn Areas and Flooding/Landslide
After the Colby Fire in 2014, a Burned Area Emergency Response plan was completed. While many
wildfires cause minimal damage to the land and pose few threats to the land or people downstream, some
fires cause damage that requires special efforts to prevent problems afterwards. Loss of vegetation exposes
soil to erosion; water runoff may increase and cause flooding; sediments may also move downstream and
damage houses or fill reservoirs putting endangered species and community water supplies at risk. It should
be noted that future fires could cause similar risks for the City. Areas at risk to post-wildfire landslide
(shown in pink) are shown on Figure 4-61.
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Figure 4-61 City of Azusa – 2014 Colby Fire Landslide Risk Areas
Source: US Forest Service
Values at Risk
The City of Azusa parcel layer and Los Angeles County’s 2017 Assessor’s data were used as the basis for
the city inventory of parcels, values, and acres. Los Angeles County has mapped CAL FIRE fire hazard
severity zones, which include the City of Azusa. GIS was used to determine the possible impacts of wildfire
within the City and how the wildfire risk varies across the Planning Area. The following methodology was
followed in determining improved parcel counts and values by fire severity.
Methodology
CAL FIRE mapped the SRA Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZs), or areas of significant fire hazard, based
on fuels, terrain, weather, and other relevant factors. Zones are designated with Very High, High, Moderate,
Non-Wildland/Non-Urban and Non-Very High hazard classes. The goal of this mapping effort is to create
more accurate fire hazard zone designations such that mitigation strategies are implemented in areas where
hazards warrant these investments. The fire hazard zones will provide specific designation for application
of defensible space and building standards consistent with known mechanisms of fire risk to people,
property, and natural resources.
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CAL FIRE also mapped the LRA Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ). Mapping of these
areas is based on data and models of potential fuels over a 30-50 year time horizon and their associated
expected fire behavior, and expected burn probabilities to quantify the likelihood and nature of vegetation
fire exposure (including firebrands) to buildings. The California Building Commission adopted California
Building Code Chapter 7A requiring new buildings in VHFHSZs to use ignition resistant construction
methods and materials. These new codes include provisions to improve the ignition resistance of buildings,
especially from firebrands. The updated very high fire hazard severity zones will be used by building
officials for new building permits in LRA. The updated zones will also be used to identify property whose
owners must comply with natural hazards disclosure requirements at time of property sale and 100 foot
defensible space clearance. It is likely that the fire hazard severity zones will be also used for updates to the
safety element of general plans.
Analysis was performed using these datasets, ensuring the local, jurisdictional dataset superseded the
statewide datasets. Using GIS, the parcel layer was overlaid on the Adopted and Recommended FHSZ and
VHFHSZ layers. For the purposes of this analysis, if the parcel centroid intersects the zone’s area, it will
be assumed that the entire parcel is in that area. This analysis illustrates the Fire Hazard Severity Zones
specific to the planning area. For the City of Azusa, only two zones are present: the very high fire hazard
severity zone and the non very high fire hazard zone.
Los Angeles County’s 2017 parcel layer and assessor’s data e were used as the basis for the City inventory
of parcels and associated values for Azusa’s wildfire analysis. Results are presented by total City planning
area, and the detailed tables show improved parcel counts and their structure values by property use
(residential, industrial, etc.) within each severity zone. The two fire hazard severity zones for the City are
shown on Figure 4-62.
Analysis results for the entire City of Azusa planning area are summarized in Table 4-68, which summarizes
total parcel counts, improved parcel counts, and their land values, structure values, contents value, and total
values by property use. Contents values were derived from the improved structure values using the same
methodology as described in the Section 4.3.1. According to the information in Table 4-68, most of the
assets of the City fall in the non-very high fire severity category, except those located in the WUI areas up
against the foothills.
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Figure 4-62 Azusa – Fire Hazard Severity Zones
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Table 4-68 Azusa – Fire Hazard Severity Zones: Count and Values of Parcels by Property Use
Fire Hazard
Severity Zone
/ Property
Use
Total Parcel
Count
Improved
Parcel Count
Total Land
Value
Improved
Structure
Value
Estimated
Contents
Value
Total Value*
Very High
Commercial 6 0 $4,712,816 $0 $0 $4,712,816
Government 21 0 $565,601 $0 $0 $565,601
Industrial 33 14 $14,578,411 $14,200,963 $21,301,445 $50,080,819
Institutional 2 1 $2,034,693 $4,910,850 $4,910,850 $11,856,393
Miscellaneous 15 6 $4,447,160 $437,150 $437,150 $5,321,460
Residential 865 701 $183,756,144 $186,461,408 $93,230,704 $463,448,256
Open - No
Use Code
26 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Very High
Total
968 722 $210,094,825 $206,010,371 $119,880,149 $535,985,345
Non-Very High
Commercial 392 279 $199,697,162 $138,227,311 $138,227,311 $476,151,784
Government 120 4 $7,053,262 $309,405 $309,405 $7,672,072
Industrial 377 326 $242,385,000 $274,819,800 $412,229,700 $929,434,500
Institutional 36 36 $32,970,018 $122,212,263 $122,212,263 $277,394,544
Miscellaneous 79 17 $8,706,168 $2,810,386 $2,810,386 $14,326,940
Residential 7,670 7,381 $1,227,837,340 $1,190,267,608 $595,133,804 $3,013,238,752
Open - No
Use Code
268 0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Non-Very
High Total
8,942 8,043 $1,718,648,950 $1,728,646,773 $1,270,922,869 $4,718,218,592
Grand Total 9,910 8,765 $1,928,743,775 $1,934,657,144 $1,390,803,018 $5,254,203,937
Source: CAL FIRE, City of Azusa Parcel Layer/Los Angeles County 2017 Assessor Data
Population at Risk
The Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone dataset was overlayed on the parcel layer. Those residential
parcel centroids that intersect the areas of concern were counted and multiplied by the 2010 Census Bureau
average household factors for Azusa (3.43). Population in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone is
shown in Table 4-69.
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Table 4-69 Azusa – Count of Improved Residential Parcels and Population in Fire Severity
Zones
Fire Hazard Severity Zone Improved Residential Parcels Population
Very High 701 2,404
Total 701 2,404
Source: CAL FIRE, City of Azusa Parcel Layer, US Census Bureau
Critical Facilities at Risk
An analysis was performed on the critical facility inventory in Azusa in identified Fire Hazard Severity
Zones. GIS was used to determine whether the facility locations intersects a fire zone, and if so, which area
it intersects. Details of critical facilities by Fire Hazard Severity Zone for the City of Azusa are shown on
Figure 4-63. Only one critical facility falls within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Aone for the City,
as shown in Table 4-70.
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Figure 4-63 Azusa – Critical Facilities in Fire Hazard Severity Zones
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Table 4-70 Azusa – Critical Facilities in Fire Hazard Severity Zones
Fire Hazard Severity Zone/ Facility
Category/Facility Name
Facility Count
Very High
Essential Services
Fire Station 97 1
Essential Services Total 1
Very High Total 1
Source: CAL FIRE, City of Azusa GIS
Overall Community Impact
The overall impact to the community from a severe wildfire includes:
➢ Injury and loss of life;
➢ Commercial and residential structural and property damage;
➢ Decreased water quality in area watersheds;
➢ Increase in post-fire hazards such as flooding, sedimentation, and mudslides;
➢ Damage to natural resource habitats and other resources, such as timber and rangeland;
➢ Loss of water, power, roads, phones, and transportation, which could impact, strand, and/or impair
mobility for emergency responders and/or area residents;
➢ Economic losses (jobs, sales, tax revenue) associated with loss of commercial structures;
➢ Negative impact on commercial and residential property values;
➢ Loss of churches, which could severely impact the social fabric of the community;
➢ Loss of schools, which could severely impact the entire school system and disrupt families and teachers,
as temporary facilities and relocations would likely be needed; and
➢ Impact on the overall mental health of the community.
Future Development
Future development areas for the City are broken out into eight areas. GIS data is maintained by the City
of Azusa, and was made available for this Plan. An analysis was performed to quantify parcels within these
areas that are also in wildfire hazard areas. Results can provide information on how and where to grow in
the future. GIS was used to create a centroid, or point representing the center of the parcel polygon. Those
parcels centroids that fall inside the future development areas and that were within the wildfire hazard areas
area shown on Figure 4-64 and detailed in Table 4-71.
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Figure 4-64 Azusa – Future Development in Fire Hazard Severity Zones
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Table 4-71 Azusa – Future Development in Fire Hazard Severity Zones
Future Development Areas Parcels Acres Fire Hazard Severity Zone
803-813 N Dalton Ave 4 1 Non-Very High
A2 6 2 Non-Very High
Atlantis Gardens 40 6 Non-Very High
Block 36 1 2 Non-Very High
Block 37 9 1 Non-Very High
Colorama 1 23 Very High, Non-Very High
Lagunitas 1 22 Non-Very High
Smart & Final Extra 6 1 Non-Very High
Grand Total 68 58
Source: CAL FIRE, City of Azusa GIS
4.4 Capability Assessment
Thus far, the planning process has identified the natural hazards posing a threat to the City and described,
in general, the vulnerability of the City to these risks. The next step is to assess what loss prevention
mechanisms are already in place. This part of the planning process is the mitigation capability assessment.
Combining the risk assessment with the mitigation capability assessment results in the City’s net
vulnerability to disasters, and more accurately focuses the goals, objectives, and propo sed actions of this
plan.
The HMPC used a two-step approach to conduct this assessment for the City. First, an inventory of common
mitigation activities was made through the use of matrices. The purpose of this effort was to identify
policies and programs that were either in place, needed improvement, or could be undertaken if deemed
appropriate. Second, the HMPC conducted an inventory and review of existing policies, regulations, plans,
and programs to determine if they contributed to reducing hazard-related losses or if they inadvertently
contributed to increasing such losses.
Similar to the HMPC’s effort to describe hazards, risks, and vulnerability of the City, this mitigation
capability assessment describes the existing capabilities, programs, and policies currently in use to reduce
hazard impacts or that could be used to implement hazard mitigation activities. This assessment is divided
into four sections: regulatory mitigation capabilities are discussed in Section 4.4.1; administrative and
technical mitigation capabilities are discussed in Section 4.4.2; fiscal mitigation capabilities are discussed
in Section 4.4.3; and mitigation education, outreach, and partnerships are discussed in Section 4.4.4. A
discussion of other mitigation efforts follows in Section 4.4.5.
4.4.1. City of Azusa’s Regulatory Mitigation Capabilities
Table 4-72 lists planning and land management tools typically used by local jurisdictions to implement
hazard mitigation activities, and indicates those that are in place in the City. Excerpts from applicable
policies, regulations, and plans and program descriptions follow to provide more detail on existing
mitigation capabilities.
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Table 4-72 City of Azusa– Regulatory Mitigation Capabilities
Plans
Y/N
Year
Does the plan/program address hazards?
Does the plan identify projects to include in the mitigation
strategy?
Can the plan be used to implement mitigation actions?
General Plan Y
2014
The Azusa General Plan addresses hazards in Chapter 3 – The
Built Environment and Chapter 5 – Natural Hazards. A
strategy for mitigation is included and the plan could be used to
implement mitigation actions. More information can be found
below this table
Capital Improvements Plan Y
2017
This plan does not delineate hazards or address them.
Economic Development Plan Y
2014
This plan does not delineate hazards or address them.
Local Emergency Operations Plan Y
1996
The plan identifies hazards and includes a mitigation strategy.
Due to the age of the plan, it may no be effective to implement
mitigation actions.
Continuity of Operations Plan Y
Transportation Plan Y
2014
The plan identifies hazards and includes a mitigation strategy.
Stormwater Management Plan/Program Y The plan identifies hazards and includes a mitigation strategy. It
could be used to implement mitigation actions.
Engineering Studies for Streams N
Community Wildfire Protection Plan N
Other special plans (e.g., brownfields
redevelopment, disaster recovery, coastal
zone management, climate change
adaptation)
N
Building Code, Permitting, and
Inspections Y/N Are codes adequately enforced?
Building Code Y Version/Year: CBC 2016
Building Code Effectiveness Grading
Schedule (BCEGS) Score
N
Fire department ISO rating: Y Rating: 3. The Los Angeles County Fire Department and the
City of Azusa are responsible for enforcement of the 2017 Los
Angeles County Fire Code.
Site plan review requirements Y Projects are reviewed against the most current adopted version
of the California Building Code, California Mechanical Code,
California Plumbing Code, California Energy Commission
Electrical Code, California Energy Commission Building
Energy Efficiency Program – Title 24 (California Energy Code),
California Green Building Code, and Los Angeles County Fire
Code.
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Land Use Planning and Ordinances Y/N
Is the ordinance an effective measure for reducing hazard
impacts?
Is the ordinance adequately administered and enforced?
Zoning ordinance Yes Yes. Azusa Municipal Code Chapter 88 – Development Code,
Article 3 – Site Development and Operational Standards,
Section 88.30.030. - Hazard Mitigation.
Yes. The requirements of Section 88.30.030 apply to the
location, site planning, and design of critical, sensitive, and high
occupancy facilities, as defined in the general plan, and as
identified in the tables of allowable land uses for each zone in
Chapter 88, Article 2 – Urban Standards.
Subdivision ordinance Yes Yes. Azusa Municipal Code Chapter 66 – Subdivisions.
Yes – ordinance is adequately administered and enforced.
Floodplain ordinance Yes Yes. Azusa Municipal Code Chapter 14 – Buildings and
Building Regulations, Article XVI – Floodplain Management
Regulations.
Yes - ordinance is adequately administered and enforced.
Natural hazard specific ordinance
(stormwater, steep slope, wildfire)
No No. The City has not adopted specific ordinances for
stormwater, steep slopes, or wildfire.
Yes. However, the Azusa Municipal Code addresses these
topics. Stormwater is addressed in Azusa Municipal Code
Chapter 60 – Stormwater and Urban Runoff and Pollution
Prevention. Steep slopes are addressed by Azusa Municipal
Code Chapter 14 – Buildings and Building Regulations. Wildfire
is addressed in Azusa Municipal Code Chapter 88 –
Development Code and Chapter 30 – Fire Prevention and
Protection.
Flood insurance rate maps Yes Yes. Azusa Municipal Code Chapter 14 – Buildings and
Building Regulations, Article XVI – Floodplain Management
Regulations.
Yes - ordinance is adequately administered and enforced.
Elevation Certificates No No.. There are no homes in the City that require additional
elevation above what is required by the California Building
Code for structure elevation. Thus, there are no homes in the
City that require elevation certificates.
N/A
Acquisition of land for open space and
public recreation uses
Yes No
Yes
Erosion or sediment control program Yes Yes. Erosion and sediment control is regulated by Azusa
Municipal Code Chapter 14 – Buildings and Building
Regulations, Chapter 60 – Stormwater and Urban Runoff and
Pollution Prevention, and Chapter 62 – Subdivision.
Yes - ordinance is adequately administered and enforced.
Other
How can these capabilities be expanded and improved to reduce risk?
Increased capacity through staffing and training; plan/program development, monitoring and updating; assessment
and enhancements to education, awareness, and outreach programs; increased funding opportunities and capacity; and
evaluation of mitigation partnering opportunities and implementation of mitigation actions and projects.
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As indicated in the table above, the City of Azusa has several plans and programs that guide the City’s
mitigation of development of hazard-prone areas. Starting with the City of Azusa General Plan, some of
these are described in more detail below.
City of Azusa Plans
City of Azusa General Plan (2004)
A general plan is a legal document, required by state law which serves as a community’s "constitution" for
the development and use of its land. It must be a comprehensive, long-term document, detailing proposals
for the physical development of the county, and of any land outside its boundaries which in the planning
agency's judgment bears relation to its planning. There are seven required elements and an economic
development element, plus a comprehensive action program. Each element while addressing a separate
subject, is interrelated with all the other elements. The elements in the 2004 General Plan are:
➢ Vision and Values
➢ Foundation and Framework
➢ Built Environment
➢ Economy and Community
➢ Natural Environment
➢ Housing Element
The Natural Environment Chapter addresses multiple hazards: drought and water shortage, earthquake,
flood, liquefaction, and landslide. Specific goals and policies related to mitigation from this Chapter
include:
Geologic Hazards
➢ GOAL 1 – Ensure the continued functioning of essential (critical, sensitive and high -occupancy)
facilities following a disaster; help prevent loss of life from the failure of critical and sensitive facilities
in an earthquake; and help prevent major problems for post-disaster response, such as difficult or
hazardous evacuations or rescues, numerous injuries, and major cleanup or decontamination of
hazardous materials.
✓ Policy 1.1 Require that earthquake survival and efficient post-disaster functioning are primary
concerns in the siting, design and construction standards of essential facilities.
✓ Policy 1.2 Require that proposed essential facilities apply the most current professional standards
for seismic design and be subject to seismic review, including detail ed site investigations for
faulting, liquefaction, ground motion characteristics, and slope stability.
✓ Policy 1.3 Prohibit the location of Critical Facilities within an identified active fault zone or
potentially active fault zone of concern (or future Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone), unless it
is determined by a qualified geologic engineer that a closer location will not result in undue risks
based on detailed site investigations.
✓ Policy 1.4 Prohibit the location of Sensitive and High-Occupancy facilities within 100 feet of the
identified active fault zone or potentially active fault zone of concern, unless itis determined by a
qualified geologic engineer that a closer location will not result in undue risks based on detailed
site investigations.
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✓ Policy 1.5 Attempt to locate Critical and Sensitive structures in areas with continuous road access
where utility services can be maintained in the event of an earthquake.
✓ Policy 1.6 Encourage owners of existing Critical and Sensitive Facilities with significant seismic
vulnerabilities to upgrade, relocate or phase out the facilities as appropriate.
✓ Policy 1.7 Incorporate planning for potential seismic incidents affecting Critical, Sensitive and
High-Occupancy Facilities into the City’s contingency plans for disaster response and recovery
✓ Policy 1.8 Require that all existing essential facilities located in areas of potential geologic, seismic
and soils hazards maintain emergency response plans, with contingencies for all appropriate
hazards.
Hazardous Structures
➢ Goal 2 – Minimize to the greatest extent feasible the loss of life, serious injuries, and major social and
economic disruption caused by the collapse of, or severe damage to, vulnerable structures (e.g.,
buildings, bridges, water storage facilities, key railroad components) resulting from an earthquake.
✓ Policy 2.1 Re-evaluate the seismic review procedures for tilt-up structures and other potentially
hazardous buildings in the City at appropriate points in the structures’ history to ensure their seismic
integrity.
✓ Policy 2.2 Establish incentives for owners of potentially hazardous buildings2 that would serve to
encourage the seismic retrofitting of vulnerable structures.
Flooding and Drainage
➢ GOAL 3 Protect lives and property and ensure that structures proposed for sites located on flood plains
subject to the 100-year flood are provided adequate protection from floods while preserving as open
space in those areas that cannot be mitigated for flood hazard.
✓ Policy 3.1 Support a multi-use concept of flood plains, flood-related facilities, and waterways,
including, where appropriate, the following uses flood control, groundwater recharge, open space,
nature study, habitat preservation, pedestrian, equestrian, and bicycle circulation, and outdoor
sports, and recreation.
✓ Policy 3.2 Where feasible, given flood control requirements, maintain the natural condition of
waterways and fl ood plains to ensure adequate groundwater recharge and water quality,
preservation of habitat, and access to mineral resources.
✓ Policy 3.3 Coordinate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Los Angeles County throughout
construction, mitigation, and operation of the various components/projects that will directly affect
the City and Sphere of Influence Area.
✓ Policy 3.4 Support the intent of the County of Los Angeles’ flood control policies as specified in
the County General Plan. The County’s detailed flood policies specify a range of protective
measures, encourage coordination among jurisdictions, and acknowledge the need for a multi-use
concept of streams and creeks.
✓ Policy 3.5 Cooperate with all public and private agencies involved to ensure that flood control
improvements do not disrupt environmentally sensitive areas beyond a level of basic necessary
mitigation.
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Emergency Preparedness and Education
➢ GOAL 4 – During a disaster, provide an effective emergency response that limits the loss of life and
curtails property damage and social dislocation (i.e. homelessness); enhances emergency preparedness
through community education and self-help programs; and minimize to the greatest extent feasible
serious damage and injuries through effective hazard mitigation.
✓ Policy 4.1 Ensure that emergency preparedness is the mutual responsibility of City agencies,
residents, schools, and the business community.
✓ Policy 4.2 Incorporate three elements into the City’s emergency preparedness program: hazard
mitigation, disaster response, and resident, business and industry self-sufficiency/mutual support.
✓ Policy 4.3 Periodically evaluate the appropriateness and effectiveness of the City’s disaster
response plans and update these as necessary.
Post-Disaster Reconstruction
➢ GOAL 5 – Encourage the preparation of a plan to facilitate the rapid and effective recovery of the city
following an earthquake. identify alternative financing sources for the repair and reconstruction of
disaster related damage.
✓ Policy 5.1 Participate in the development of programs and procedures that emphasize coordination
between appropriate public agencies and private entities, promote the rapid reconstruction of the
City following an earthquake, and facilitate an upgrading of the built environment, as opportunities
allow.
✓ Policy 5.2 Establish the mitigation of earthquake hazards as a high priority for City programs, both
before and after an earthquake.
✓ Policy 5.3 Ensure the development of plans and procedures that allow the City to declare itself a
disaster area and receive its fair share of federal and state emergency funds in the event of a serious
earthquake.
In addition to the goals and policies above, the HMPC noted the following programs the City runs that are
connected to the General Plan.
LAND USE IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAMS
LU13: Capital Improvement Program
The City of Azusa prepares an annual Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for public facility repair,
construction, and improvements. The CIP provides for the construction and upgrade of streets, storm drains
(those not under the responsibility of the County of Los Angeles), municipal buildings, water, and electrical,
and other public physical facilities. The CIP defines specific improvements to be made annually and
allocates a budget for the improvements. The CIP is to be revised annually.
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INFRASTRUCTURE IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAMS
I6: Infrastructure Improvements
➢ Solicit funds for an improvement study, and the resulting design, construction, and maintenance of the
City’s public infrastructure system.
➢ Continue to expand the electrical distribution line-undergrounding program.
PUBLIC SERVICES IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAMS
PS7: Emergency Response Coordination
Maintain communication with State safety personnel, local schools, Fire Department, and Police
Department to coordinate emergency response efforts.
PUBLIC SERVICES IMPLEMENTATION PROJECTS
1. Identify problematic intersections and roadway sections that may impede emergency response.
GEOLOGY HAZARDS IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAMS
GEO9: Utilities Report
Require public service agencies to prepare a Utilities Report for proposed projects located in liquefaction
susceptibility zones. Utilities Reports will be used to help ensure that natural gas, electric, water, sewer and
communication systems are designed to mitigate potential hazards arising from their location in liquefaction
zones.
GEO14: Detention Basin Construction
Work with the Los Angeles County Flood Control District to construct detention basins in the areas where
inadequate 100-year flood protection along the San Gabriel Mountains exists to reduce or eliminate
downstream flooding.
GEO 19: Earthquake Awareness/Preparedness
Develop a City-based public awareness/earthquake preparedness program, to educate the public about
seismic hazards, and what to do in the event of an earthquake. Seismic hazard education could take the
form of distributing an information pamphlet through libraries, schools, or utility bills, and community-
wide simulations.
GEO 23: Building Type Database
At the earliest opportunity, a database shall be compiled of all structural building types in the City that may
be considered potential seismic hazards, including tilt-up structures and nonductile concrete frame
buildings.
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GEO 28: Geologic And Soils Reports And Report Repository
➢ All geologic and soils reports submitted to the City shall be reviewed for their adequacy and
completeness by a qualified, Certified Engineering Geologist and/or Registered Soils Engineer.
➢ A central repository shall be established in the Engineering Division, for the collection and compilation
of geologic and soils engineering information related to identified active fault or potentially active fault
of concern and fault zone studies, groundwater levels, soils characteristics, susceptibility to landslides
and liquefaction, and other data as appropriate. This information shall be used to increase the
knowledge and insights of City reviewers and applicants alike, in support of hazard mitigation. To the
extent possible this information should be in a GIS-database and available in summary form on the City
website.
GEO 30: Emergency Preparedness And Disaster Response Plans
➢ Appropriate disaster response and emergency response plans shall be maintained and updated. Disaster
response plans shall include adequate capabilities for heavy search and rescue, major medical response,
interim morgue, emergency shelter, traffic and utility impacts, debris removal and disposal, as well as
hazardous materials response for any chemicals stored or used in or adjacent to the hazardous buildings.
Disaster response plans shall also include procedures for access, traffic control, emergency evacuations,
and security of damaged areas.
➢ Criteria for efficient and orderly evacuation capabilities shall be incorporated into development, street
planning, and other land use procedures for the potential inundation area below the dam or reservoir.
➢ The City in cooperation with other agencies shall conduct emergency response exercises. Exercises
shall be designed to test and upgrade various disaster response plans.
➢ Public participation shall be sought in the development of hazard mitigation and disaster recovery
programs.
➢ A public education and preparedness program shall be a continuing component of the emergency
preparedness program. It should include, at a minimum:
➢ the existence and approximate locations of major regional and local identified active faults or
potentially active faults of concern, landslide and liquefaction susceptibility areas;
➢ the potential for strong ground shaking in the area, and means of strengthening buildings and protecting
furnishings, equipment and other building contents from damage;
➢ the need for businesses and residents to be self-sufficient for several days following an earthquake,
including food, water, medical assistance, and limited fire fighting; and
➢ specific information describing what an individual should do during and immediately following an
earthquake, whether at home, in a car, at work, or in an unfamiliar building.
➢ Solicit the cooperation of the business community for public education and mutual assistance.
Businesses shall be encouraged to develop their own disaster response plans and have provisions for
food, water, first aid and shelter of employees who may not be able to return home for several days
following a major earthquake.
➢ Guidelines shall be developed by the City that provide a clear direction for the exercise of authorities
following an earthquake related disaster for such purposes as:
✓ rapid designation of redevelopment areas;
✓ revising land use, circulation and parking requirements, and institution of other programs for
improving the community environment;
✓ adapting and instituting of special programs for disaster recovery;
✓ funding of disaster recovery measures;
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✓ moratoria on reconstruction in any high-hazard areas where damage could be repeated in after
shocks or in future earthquakes;
✓ upgrading of the building code if deficiencies are believed to exist;
✓ establishing Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts, as appropriate;
✓ designating of sites for temporary housing (e.g., travel trailers and prefab construction) of
households made homeless in the disaster, in cooperation with the Disaster Housing Program of
the Federal Emergency Management Agency; and
✓ using of schools, government, armory, or other interim sites for emergency housing and post
disaster care.
➢ In order to prepare for post earthquake recovery, the City shall establish procedures for declaring itself
a disaster area and for receiving Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and comparable
state disaster relief funds.
GEO 31: Mutual Aid Agreements
Maintain effective mutual aid agreements with other agencies and/or municipalities works, building
inspection, mass care, and heavy rescue.
GEOLOGY HAZARDS IMPLEMENTATION PROJECTS
2. Identify buildings in flood hazard, earthquake hazard, and fire hazard areas that may require
modifications to improve the level of protection.
City of Azusa Urban Water Management Plan (2015)
In 2015, Azusa Light and Water worked to create the City of Azusa Urban Water Management Plan
(UWMP). This plan was prepared in compliance with the Urban Water Management Planning Act, per
Division 6 of the California Water Code, Sections 10610 to 10657, which has recently amended by
Assembly Bill 2067 in 2014. The UWMP updates a previous 2010 UWMP. The plan describes:
➢ Water supply resources
➢ Water quality
➢ Water demand
➢ Reliability planning
➢ Demand management
➢ Contingency planning
Emergency Operations Plan
The City of Azusa Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) addresses the City of Azusa's planned response to
extraordinary emergency situations associated with natural disasters, technological incidents, and national
security emergencies. The plan does not address normal day-to-day emergencies or the well-established
and routine procedures used in coping with such emergencies. Instead, the operational concepts reflected
in this plan focus on potential largescale disasters which can generate unique situations requiring unusual
emergency responses.
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This plan is a preparedness document-designed to be read, understood, and exercised prior to an emergency.
It is designed to include the City of Azusa as part of the California Standardized Emergency Management
System (SEMS). Each element of the emergency management organization is responsible for assuring the
preparation and maintenance of appropriate and current standard operating procedures (SOPs)/emergency
operations procedures (EOPs), resource lists and checklists that detail how assigned responsibilities are
performed to support SEMS MHFP implementation and to ensure successful response during a major
disaster. The EOP is broken down into the following sections:
➢ Part One - Basic Plan. Overall organizational and operational concepts relative to response and
recovery, as well as an overview of potential hazards. Intended audience-EOC Management Team.
➢ Part Two - Emergency Organization Functions. Description of the emergency response organization
and emergency action checklists. Intended audience-EOC staff.
➢ Part Three - Supporting and legal documents to the SEMS MHFP. Intended audience-All elements of
the SEMS staff.
City of Azusa Ordinances
The City General Plan provides policy direction for land use, development, open space protection, and
environmental quality; however, this policy direction must be carried out through numerous ordinances,
programs, and agreements. The following ordinances are among the most important tools for implementing
the General Plan and/or are critical to the mitigation of hazards identified in this plan.
Buildings and Building Regulations (Chapter 14)
This Title concerns the regulation of buildings within the City. The city adopts by reference and makes
part of this chapter by reference, subject to those certain amendments set forth in this chapter, the following
California Building Standards Codes (California Code of Regulations, Title 24) and uniform codes. The
California Building Code, 2016 Edition, as adopted by section 14-1, is amended, added to or modified as
set out in this division. If there is any inconsistency between the provisions of the California Building
Code, as adopted, and the modifications adopted by this division and other provisions of this Code, the
more restrictive provision with respect to building regulations shall apply.
Earthquake Hazard Reduction in Existing Buildings (Section 14-381)
The purpose of this article is to promote public safety and welfare by reducing the risk of death or injury
that may result from the effects of earthquakes on unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings constructed
before 1934. Such buildings have been widely recognized for sustaining life hazardous damage as a result
of partial or complete collapse during moderate to strong earthquakes. This is particularly important in the
city where many buildings are of the pre-1934 type.
The provisions of this article are minimum standards for structural seismic resistance established primarily
to reduce the risk of life loss or injury and will not necessarily prevent loss of life or injury or prevent
earthquake damage to an existing building which complies with these standards. This article shall not
require existing electrical, plumbing, mechanical or fire safety systems to be altered unless they constitute
a hazard to life or property.
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This article provides systematic procedures and standards for identification and classification of
unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings based on their use. Priorities, time periods and standards are
also established under which these buildings are required to be structurally analyzed and anchored. Where
the analysis determines deficiencies, this article requires the building to be strengthened or demolished.
The provisions of the State Historical Building Code (SHBC) established under part 8, title 24 of the State
Administrative Code are incorporated in this article.
Floodplain Management Regulations (Article XVI of Chapter 14)
The flood hazard areas of the city are subject to periodic inundation which results in loss of life and property,
health and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and governmental services, extraordinary public
expenditures for flood protection and relief, and impairment of the tax base, all of which adversely affect
the public health, safety, and general welfare. These flood losses are caused by uses that are inadequately
elevated, flood proofed, or protected from flood damage. The cumulative effect of obstructions in areas of
special flood hazards which increase flood heights and velocities also contribute to flood losses. These
regulations are designed to:
➢ Protect human life and health;
➢ Minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects;
➢ Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and generally undertaken at
the expense of the general public;
➢ Minimize prolonged business interruptions;
➢ Minimize damage to public facilities and utilities such as water and gas mains; electric, telephone and
sewer lines; and streets and bridges located in areas of special flood hazard;
➢ Help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and development of areas of special
flood hazard so as to minimize future blighted areas caused by flood damage;
➢ Ensure that potential buyers are notified that property is in an area of special flood hazard; and
➢ Ensure that those who occupy the areas of special flood hazard assume responsibility for their actions.
In order to accomplish its purposes, this article includes methods and provisions to:
➢ Restrict or prohibit uses which are dangerous to health, safety, and property due to water or erosion
hazards, or which result in damaging increases in erosion or flood heights or velocities;
➢ Require that uses vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve such uses, be protected against
flood damage at the time of initial construction;
➢ Control the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural protective barriers, which
help accommodate or channel floodwaters;
➢ Control filling, grading, dredging, and other development which may increase flood damage;
➢ Prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers which will unnaturally divert floodwaters or which
may increase flood hazards in other areas; and
➢ These regulations take precedence over any less restrictive conflicting local laws, ordinances and codes.
Standards of construction for residential homes, utilities, subdivisions, manufactured homes, recreational
vehicles are set forth. This ordinance covers floodways, as well as mudslide and mudflow areas.
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Civil Emergencies (Chapter 26)
This chapter establishes the city emergency services organization and pro vides for the preparation and
carrying out of the plans for the protection of persons and property within this city in the event of an
emergency; the direction of the emergency organization; and the coordination of the emergency functions
of this city with all other public agencies, incorporated areas, corporations, organizations, and affected
private persons.
Fire Prevention and Protection (Chapter 30)
Subject to the changes and amendments as may be set forth in this article, that certain code entitled "20 14
Los Angeles County Fire Code" adopted by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has been filed
in the office of the city clerk, which is referred to and by this reference expressly incorporated in this article,
is adopted as the fire code of the city and by reference made a part of this article as if fully and for all intents
and purposes as though set forth in this article at length. If there is any inconsistency between any provisions
of such fire code and other provisions of this Municipal Code, such other provisions of this Municipal Code
shall prevail.
Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Prevention (Chapter 60)
The purpose of this chapter is to protect the health and safety of the residents of the city and county by
protecting the beneficial uses, marine and river habitats, and ecosystems of receiving waters within the city
from pollutants carried by stormwater and non-stormwater discharges. The intent of this chapter is to
enhance and protect the water quality of the receiving waters of the ci ty and the United States, consistent
with the Act.
Subdivisions (Chapter 66)
This title shall be known and cited as the Subdivision Ordinance of the City of Azusa. Pursuant to the
provisions of the Subdivision Map Act (Government Code § 66410 et seq.) and in addition to any other
regulations provided by law, this chapter shall apply to all subdivisions or parts of subdivisions made of
land wholly within the incorporated territory of the city and to the preparation of subdivision maps thereof
and to other maps provided for by such statute for approval, and each subdivision and each part thereof
lying within the incorporated territory of this city shall be made and each such map shall be prepared and
presented for approval as provided for and required in this chapter.
All actions and activities subject to the provisions of this title shall conform to all pertinent city-adopted
plans, ordinances and environmental guidelines.
Development Code (Chapter 88)
This article adopts the Azusa Development Code, describes the authorities on which it is based, provides
an overview of how it applies to development within the city, and establishes rules and procedures for the
interpretation of Code provisions. The City of Azusa Development Code carries out the policies of the
Azusa General Plan by regulating development and land uses within the city, consistent with the general
plan. This Development Code is adopted to protect and to promote the public health, safety, comfort,
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convenience, prosperity, and general welfare of residents, and businesses in the city. More specifically, the
purposes of this Development Code are to:
➢ Provide standards for the continuing orderly growth and development of the city that will assist in
enhancing and maintaining distinct community identity, and contribute to the health and well being of
residents;
➢ Create a comprehensive and stable pattern of development and land uses upon which to plan
transportation, water supply, sewerage, energy, and other public facilities and utilities;
➢ Ensure that proposed development is of human scale, pedestrian-oriented, energy conserving, and is
designed to create attractive streetscapes and pedestrian spaces;
➢ Minimize automobile congestion through pedestrian-oriented development, compact community form,
safe and effective traffic circulation, and adequate parking facilities; and
➢ Ensure compatibility between different types of development and land uses.
This Development Code applies to all land uses, subdivisions, and development within the City of Azusa,
County Programs and Plans
Los Angeles County 2016 Strategic Fire Plan
The 2016 Strategic Fire Plan for Los Angeles County was developed to reduce risk to the County from
wildfires. The Los Angeles County Fire Department operates nine divisions, 22 battalions, 171 fire stations
and nine fire suppression camps and answers over 380,870 emergency calls annually. Additionally, the Los
Angeles County Fire Department has Planning, Information Management, Fire Prevention, Air and
Wildland, Lifeguard, Forestry and Health Hazardous Materials Divisions, which provide valuable services
to about four million people.
Cooling Centers
The County maintains and publishes a list of cooling centers in Azusa and in neighboring locations. The
list can also be accessed by calling 211. Informational brochures are produced and distributed during times
of expected extreme heat.
Heat Alert
The Los Angeles County Health Officer issues a Heat Alert when high temperatures have been forecast for
Los Angeles Basin. The Department of Public Health reminds everyone that precautions should be taken,
especially by individuals who participate in outdoor activities, older adults, caretakers of infants and
children, and those sensitive to the heat. This alert may be extended if weather conditions do not improve.
State and Federal Programs
A number of state and federal programs exist to provide technical and financial assistance to local
communities for hazard mitigation. Some of the primary agencies/departments that are closely involved
with local governments in the administration of these programs include:
➢ California Office of Emergency Services
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➢ State of California Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan;
➢ California Department of Water Resources;
➢ California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE);
➢ California Environmental Protection Agency;
➢ California Department of Fish and Game;
➢ California State Parks and Recreation Department
➢ California State Lands Commission;
➢ Federal Emergency Management Agency (Region IX);
➢ U.S. Army Corps of Engineers;
➢ Bureau of Reclamation;
➢ USDA Forest Service;
➢ National Parks Service
➢ National Weather Service;
➢ USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service;
➢ U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Region IX); and
➢ American Red Cross.
In addition, the State Department of Safety of Dams (DOSD) inspects the two dams near the City:
➢ The Morris Dam is regulated by the DOSD and is inspected twice per year.
➢ The San Gabriel Dam is regulated by both DOSD and Federal Environmental Regulatory Committee
and is inspected once per year
4.4.2. City of Azusa’s Administrative/Technical Mitigation Capabilities
Table 4-73 identifies the City personnel responsible for activities related to mitigation and loss prevention
in the City.
Table 4-73 City of Azusa– Administrative/Technical Mitigation Capabilities
Administration Y/N
Describe capability
Is coordination effective?
Planning Commission Y The planning commission functions and its powers and duties
shall be such as may be provided by state law and ordinances or
resolutions adopted by the council. The director of community
development or his/her designee shall serve as advisor to the
commission.
Yes – coordination is effective
Mitigation Planning Committee Y A Mitigation Planning Committee was formed at the beginning
of the Hazard Mitigation Plan process in March 2017. The
committee met periodically during the preparation of the Plan to
provide input and direction.
Yes – coordination is effective s
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Maintenance programs to reduce risk
(e.g., tree trimming, clearing drainage
systems)
Y Tree Trimming. The City has approximately 12,000 parkway,
median islands and City park trees. These trees have been placed
on a 5-year trim cycle. The City’s Recreation and Family
Services, Park Division and the Azusa Light and Water, Electric
Division utilizes a third-party contractor for tree maintenance
services for City parks, parkways, median islands and utility right
of ways.
Flood Control Channels. The Los Angeles County
Department of Public Works Flood Control District controls the
storm drains near the San Gabriel River. The City of Azusa’s
storm drain system is connected to the County’s. The City’s
Street Maintenance Supervisor plans, coordinates, supervises,
directs, and inspects the work of crews engaged in the patching,
construction, paving, and maintenance of streets; storm drains,
sidewalks, curbs and gutters, rights-of-way, and street cleaning
operations; painting of streets, cross-walks, safety zones, curbs
and parking stalls; maintenance, replacement, and repair of street
signs and barricades.
Yes – coordination is effective
Mutual aid agreements Y The City maintains effective mutual aid agreements with other
agencies and/or municipalities works, building inspection, mass
care, and heavy rescue.
Yes – coordination is effective
Other
Staff
Y/N
FT/PT
Is staffing adequate to enforce regulations?
Is staff trained on hazards and mitigation?
Is coordination between agencies and staff effective?
Chief Building Official Y
FT
Staffing is adequate and well trained, and coordination occurs
between agencies where practical.
Floodplain Administrator Y
City engineer serves as the floodplain administrator.
Emergency Manager Y
FT
Staffing is adequate and well trained, and coordination occurs
between agencies where practical
Community Planner Y
FT
Staffing is adequate and well trained, and coordination occurs
between agencies where practical
Civil Engineer Y
FT
Staffing is adequate and well trained, and coordination occurs
between agencies where practical
GIS Coordinator Y
FT
Staff does not enforce regulations, and is not highly trained in
hazard mitigation. Staff does coordinate with other departments
and agencies, however.
Other
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Technical Y/N
Describe capability
Has capability been used to assess/mitigate risk in the
past?
Warning systems/services
(Reverse 911, outdoor warning signals)
Y Warning Siren. A warning siren is located in the northern
portion of the City.
Reverse 911. In the event of an incident where mass cell phone
warnings and reverse 911 calls (both landline and cell) are
required, the City of Azusa will take the following steps:
1) Appoint an Incident Commander
2) The Incident Commander will place a formal request to the
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Emergency
Operations Bureau (LASD EOB)
3) LASD EOB will send out the mass cell phone message and
reverse 911 calls on behalf of the City of Azusa
City Website. The City’s website offers the opportunity to sign
up for email or text message notifications from the Azusa Police
Department and Emergency Operations Center, or regarding
power or water outages.
This capability has been used to mitigate risks in the past.
Hazard data and information Y Citywide hazard data and information is included in the General
Plan and General Plan EIR. Site-specific data is provided during
the Plan Check process.
This capability has been used to mitigate risks in the past.
Grant writing Y Various City Departments actively pursue and are awarded grant
funding for a variety of City project and activities. In December
24, 2015, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency
Services (Cal OES) received notification that the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) had approved the
City’s application relative to the 2015 Pre-Disaster Mitigation
(PDM) Grant Program. The City is using the grant money to
hire a Consultant to assist Staff in developing a Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan (LHMP).
This capability has been used to mitigate risks in the past.
Hazards analysis N
Other
How can these capabilities be expanded and improved to reduce risk?
Increased capacity through staffing and training; plan/program development, monitoring and updating; assessment
and enhancements to education, awareness, and outreach programs; increased funding opportunities and capacity; and
evaluation of mitigation partnering opportunities and implementation of mitigation actions and projects.
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4.4.3. City of Azusa’s Fiscal Mitigation Capabilities
Table 4-74 identifies financial tools or resources that the City could potentially use to help fund mitigation
activities.
Table 4-74 City of Azusa – Fiscal Mitigation Capabilities
Funding Resource
Access/
Eligibility
(Y/N)
Has the funding resource been used in past
and for what type of activities?
Could the resource be used to fund future
mitigation actions?
Capital improvements project funding Y Yes. Numerous City Departments identify
projects that include improvements to existing
City facilities, replacement or enhancement of
facilities, and new construction of facilities.
Activities include but are not limited to electric
substation improvements; LED street light
fixture retrofit; new playground equipment;
ADA restrooms; parking lot resurfacing;
building interior and exterior painting; street
improvements; traffic signals; subdrains; street
pavement maintenance or rehabilitation; street
signing, striping, and curb painting; water
sample stations; water treatment plant
improvements; and reservoir rehabilitation.
Yes
Authority to levy taxes for specific purposes Y Yes. Community Facilities Districts (CFD)
allow for the financing of public services and
facilities. A CFD allows local governments to
obtain the financial resources needed for
improvements to infrastructure (streets, sewers,
storm drains) in a specific area, even though
Proposition 13 limits their ability to tax
property. Two CFDs exist in the City:
Mountain Cove and Rosedale.
Yes
Fees for water, sewer, gas, or electric services Y Yes. Azusa Light and Power and Southern
California Gas Company charge connection
and monthly service fees. The fees cover usage
and system maintenance costs.
Yes
Impact fees for new development N No
Yes
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Funding Resource
Access/
Eligibility
(Y/N)
Has the funding resource been used in past
and for what type of activities?
Could the resource be used to fund future
mitigation actions?
Storm water utility fee Y No. Fees are collected by Los Angeles County.
The fees cover new connections and County-
wide system maintenance and upgrades.
Yes. In November 2018, Los Angeles County
voters passed Measure W. Measure W
authorizes the Los Angeles County Flood
Control District (District) to levy a special tax
annually on parcels (2.5 cents a square foot of
“impermeable space”) within the District,
which encompasses cities (including Azusa) and
unincorporated areas of the County. The tax
revenue would pay for projects, infrastructure,
and programs to capture, treat, and recycle
rainwater. And the revenue generated will be
used to pay for regional and municipal projects
that improve water quality and may also
increase water supply and provide community
benefits such as parks or wetlands.
Incur debt through general obligation bonds and/or
special tax bonds
Yes Yes. The City has incurred debt with the
Electric System Refunding Revenue Bonds and
Water System Refunding Revenue Bonds. In
addition, the Successor Agency of the former
Redevelopment Agency of the City of Azusa
(Agency) has prepared a Recognized Obligation
Payment Schedule (ROPS). The ROPS
identifies the follow bond debt service: 2007
Series B Tax Allocation Bond, 2014 Series A
Subordinate Tax Allocation Refunding Bond,
2015 Series A Subordinate Tax Allocation
Refunding Bond, 2015 Series A Subordinate
Tax Allocation Refunding Bond, and 2003
Certificate of Participation Refunding Bond.
Yes
Incur debt through private activities N No
No
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Funding Resource
Access/
Eligibility
(Y/N)
Has the funding resource been used in past
and for what type of activities?
Could the resource be used to fund future
mitigation actions?
Community Development Block Grant Y Yes. The City of Azusa receives approximately
$425,000 annually to support eligible CDBG
projects that assist the City's low and moderate
income residents. Examples of eligible CDBG
projects that the City undertakes annually
include Housing Rehabilitation, Code
Enforcement, various capital improvement
projects and public service activities. A
maximum of fifteen percent ( 15%) of the
City's total annual CDBG funds may be
allocated to public service projects. Examples
of the City's CDBG-funded public service
projects include: Senior Referral and Case
Management, Senior Nutrition, Neighborhood
Homework House, and the Afterschool
Playground and Tutoring Program.
Yes
Other federal funding programs Y Yes. Various City Departments actively pursue
and are awarded federal funding for a variety of
City project and activities.
Yes
State funding programs Y Yes. Various City Departments actively pursue
and are awarded state funding for a variety of
City project and activities.
Yes
Other
How can these capabilities be expanded and improved to reduce risk?
Increased capacity through staffing and training; plan/program development, monitoring and updating; assessment
and enhancements to education, awareness, and outreach programs; increased funding opportunities and capacity; and
evaluation of mitigation partnering opportunities and implementation of mitigation actions and projects.
4.4.4. Mitigation Education, Outreach, and Partnerships
Table 4-75 identifies education and outreach programs and methods already in place in the City that could
be/or are used to implement mitigation activities and communicate hazard-related information.
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Table 4-75 City of Azusa– Mitigation Education, Outreach, and Partnerships
Program/Organization Yes/No
Describe program/organization and how relates to disaster
resilience and mitigation.
Could the program/organization help implement future
mitigation activities?
Local citizen groups or
non-profit organizations
focused on
environmental
protection, emergency
preparedness, access and
functional needs
populations, etc.
Yes Programs/Organizations
Environmental Protection: Rivers and Mountains Conservancy
(RMC) and its four joint powers authorities: Watershed Conservation
Authority, San Gabriel River Discovery Center Authority, Los Cerritos
Wetlands Authority, and Azusa-RMC Joint Powers Authority. It is one
of ten conservancies within the California Resources Agency. RMC’s
mission is to preserve open space and habitat in order to provide for
low-impact recreation and educational uses, wildlife habitat restoration
and protection, and watershed improvements within our jurisdiction.
Azusa River Wilderness Park Plan. Situated at the gateway to the San
Gabriel Mountains National Monument, the River Wilderness Park
offers spectacular vistas of the San Gabriel River and the canyon. The
current vision for the park covers 70± acres. It is the goal of the WCA
to create a park that will be a model for sustainable, multi-benefit
watershed projects that address the open space recreation and
watershed needs of the region. As the 70± acre River Wilderness Park is
restored and developed, it will include expanded trail systems, restored
native habitat, outdoor classroom, special event pavilion, and a
children’s adventure play experience offering hands-on exposure to
nature and natural processes of the river and the canyon. Project
development is currently in design and permitting phase. Project
development is currently in the design and permitting phase.
Emergency Preparedness: Red Cross - San Gabriel Pomona Valley
Chapter. Red Cross offers Health and Safety training and education, as
well as provides disaster relief services to assist families and
communities following a disaster.
Ongoing public
education or information
program (e.g.,
responsible water use,
fire safety, household
preparedness,
environmental education)
Access and Functional Needs Populations: The City of Azusa is
part of the county-wide Los Angeles Continuum of Care (LACoC) to
provide assistance to homeless persons at every level of need. The
LACoC services and facilities available for the homeless in Azusa are
coordinated by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA).
The East San Gabriel Valley Coalition for the Homeless (ESGVCH) is
part of the LACoC system and provides provides emergency shelters
and other forms of assistance to homeless families and persons, as well
as at-risk low income persons in the East San Gabriel Valley, which
includes the City of Azusa. The ESGVCH is an active partner with the
Continuum of Care of Homeless Services in East San Gabriel Valley.
The ESGVCH provides its services to the area’s homeless and at-risk
populations through a series of facilities. These facilities include a
Homeless Emergency Assistance Center in the neighboring city of
Covina, a Services Access Center housed in the West Covina
Community Services Center, and emergency winter shelters established
in local churches on a rotating basis. In addition, there is one shelter in
the City: Peregrinos’ de Emaus Homeless Shelter for men only.
Implementation
The programs and/or organizations could potentially help implement
future mitigation activities.
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Program/Organization Yes/No
Describe program/organization and how relates to disaster
resilience and mitigation.
Could the program/organization help implement future
mitigation activities?
Natural disaster or safety
related school programs
Yes Programs/Organizations
City of Azusa Light & Water has information and programs regarding
water conservation and drought resources:
http://www.ci.azusa.ca.us/364/Water-Conservation
City of Azusa National Preparedness Month:
http://www.ci.azusa.ca.us/1125/National-Preparedness-Month
City of Azusa Great Shake-Out Earthquake Drill:
http://www.ci.azusa.ca.us/DocumentCenter/View/37384/Earthquake-
Drill?bidId=
City of Azusa Recreation and Family Services: Activity Guide –
published four times per year. The Guide provides community
information, as well as information related to responsible water use, fire
safety, and household preparedness
StormReady certification Los Angeles County Fire Department Ready, Set, Go is a program
designed to help families stay safe
https://www.lafd.org/safety/education/ready-set-go
Los Angeles County Fire Department offers education and information
related to fire hazard reduction (i.e., brush clearance, fuel modification
zones, vegetation management):
https://www.fire.lacounty.gov/forestry-division/fire-hazard-reduction-
programs/
Implementation
The programs and/or organizations could potentially help implement
future mitigation activities.
Firewise Communities
certification
Yes Programs/Organizations
Azusa Unified School District. The District has an Emergencies and
Disasters Preparedness Plan, which details provisions for handling
emergencies and disasters and is included in the district's comprehensive
school safety plan.
Azusa Pacific University. In times of crisis, the university activates its
Critical Incident Response Team to ensure the well-being of the campus
community. APU has emergency procedures, notification systems, and
ways for all on campus to be prepared.
Implementation
The programs and/or organizations could potentially help implement
future mitigation activities.
Public-private
partnership initiatives
addressing disaster-
related issues
No
Other No
How can these capabilities be expanded and improved to reduce risk?
The City will continue to look for ways to increase the fiscal monies and staffing capabilities to improve or
enhance existing coordination and outreach activities, or to add new coordination and outreach activities.
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4.4.5. Other Mitigation Efforts
The City has other mitigation efforts that were not captured in the above sections. Existing mitigation
capabilities noted by Planning Team are denoted below.
➢ After the Colby fire, the City partnered with LA County and the US Forest Service for flood mitigation
efforts on the County owned hillsides above Azusa. The following actions were taken:
✓ Assistant Director of Water Operations Chet Anderson was assigned as Azusa's designee for
citywide watershed protection.
✓ It was determined that for the next five years, the Colby Fire had increased the potential of possible
sediment runoff from the burned hillsides during rainstorms.
✓ Los Angeles County Public Works (LACPW) personnel were brought into Azusa to determine
what measures were needed to protect residents from potential debris flow associated with the
Colby Fire.
✓ The City worked with LACPW to provide flood preparation assistance for 11 private properties
that were identified as in danger. The residents received recommended measures to mitigate
potential damage from these debris flows.
✓ Los Angeles County crews began clearing debris from debris basins in Azusa in anticipation of
increased debris flows.
✓ A copy of the Homeowners Guide to Mudflow Protection and other useful information was made
available to residents on both the city and county website: http://dpw.lacounty.gov/wrd/Fire/
✓ Azusa officials reached out to Hudson Minshew from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation
Service who briefed the City on the Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP). A meeting
was held on Thursday, January 23, 2014.
✓ The EWP is a cost-share program that offers 75% of the costs to cities to install protection measures
following a natural disaster.
✓ Protection measures completed by the City of Azusa include the installation of k-rails to help divert
possible debris flows, in affected city owned areas identified by LACPW.
➢ Post-disaster redevelopment and mitigation policies and procedures are being evaluated and updated as
part of the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) update
➢ Post fire mitigation planning also included a working partnership with the National Weather Service.
➢ Wildfire – Fuels modification activities are focused in the very high fire hazard severity zones up
against the foothills.
➢ Wildfire – After the Colby Fire in 2014, the cities of Azusa and Glendora entered into a mutual aid
agreement. The agreement states the cities will work together during times of drought and high wildfire
risk.
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Chapter 5 Mitigation Strategy
Requirement §201.6(c)(3): [The plan shall include] a mitigation strategy that provides the
jurisdiction’s blueprint for reducing the potential losses identified in the risk assessment, based on
existing authorities, policies, programs and resources, and its ability to expand on and improve these
existing tools.
This chapter describes the mitigation strategy process and mitigation action plan for the City of Azusa Local
Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). It describes how the City met the following requirements from the 10-
step planning process:
➢ Planning Step 6: Set Goals
➢ Planning Step 7: Review Possible Activities
➢ Planning Step 8: Draft an Action Plan
5.1 Mitigation Strategy: Overview
The results of the planning process, the risk assessment, the goal setting, the identification of mitigation
actions, and the hard work of the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC) led to the action plan in
Section 5.4 Mitigation Action Plan. Taking all of the above into consideration, the HMPC developed the
following umbrella mitigation strategy for this LHMP:
➢ Communicate the hazard information collected and analyzed through this planning process as well as
HMPC success stories so that the community better understands what can happen where and what they
can do to be better prepared.
➢ Use existing rules, regulations, policies, and procedures already in existence.
➢ Implement the action plan recommendations of this Plan.
➢ Monitor multi-objective management opportunities so that funding opportunities may be shared and
packaged and broader constituent support may be garnered.
5.1.1. Continued Compliance with NFIP
Given the flood hazard in the planning area, an emphasis will be placed on continued compliance with the
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) by the City of Azusa. Detailed below is a description of the
City’s flood management program to ensure continued compliance with the NFIP. Also to be considered
are the numerous flood mitigation actions contained in this LHMP that support the ongoing efforts by the
City to minimize the risk and vulnerability of the community to the flood hazard and to enhance their overall
floodplain management program.
Azusa’s Flood Management Program
Azusa has participated in the Regular Phase of the NFIP since 1984. Since then, the City has administered
floodplain management regulations that meet the minimum requirements of the NFIP. Under that
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arrangement, residents and businesses paid the same flood insurance premium rates as most other
communities in the country.
The Community Rating System (CRS) was created in 1990. It is designed to recognize floodplain
management activities that are above and beyond the NFIP’s minimum requirements. If a community
implements public information, mapping, regulatory, loss reduction and/or flood preparedness activities
and submits the appropriate documentation to the FEMA, then its residents can qualify for a flood insurance
premium rate reduction. The City does not currently participate in the CRS program, but will evaluate the
overall value of joining CRS in the future during the implementation phase of this LHMP.
Presently, the City manages its floodplains in compliance with NFIP requirements and implements a
floodplain management program designed to protect the people and property of the City. Floodplain
regulations are a critical element in local floodplain management and are a primary component in the City’s
participation in the NFIP. As well, the City’s floodplain management activities apply to existing and new
development areas, implementing flood protection measures for structures and maintaining drainage
systems to help reduce the potential of flooding within the City.
The City will continue to manage their floodplains in continued compliance with the NFIP. An overview
of the City’s NFIP status and floodplain management program are discussed on Table 5-1.
Table 5-1 Azusa NFIP Status
NFIP Topic Comments
Insurance Summary
How many NFIP policies are in the community? What is the total
premium and coverage?
41 policies
$28,682 in annual premiums
410,798,700 of coverage
How many claims have been paid in the community? What is the total
amount of paid claims? How many of the claims were for substantial
damage?
1 closed claim for $750. No substantial
damage claims.
How many structures are exposed to flood risk within the community? 1 improved parcel in 1% chance
12 improved parcels in 0.2% chance
Describe any areas of flood risk with limited NFIP policy coverage There are no areas with limited NFIP
policy coverage.
Community Floodplain Administration
Is the Community Floodplain Administrator or NFIP Coordinator
certified?
N
Provide an explanation of NFIP administration services (e.g., permit
review, GIS, education or outreach, inspections, engineering capability)
The City provides permit review and
inspection of properties to be built in the
floodplain.
What are the barriers to running an effective NFIP program in the
community, if any?
None
Compliance History
Is the community in good standing with the NFIP? Y
Are there any outstanding compliance issues (i.e., current violations)? No
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NFIP Topic Comments
When was the most recent Community Assistance Visit (CAV) or
Community Assistance Contact (CAC)?
9/29/2006
Is a CAV or CAC scheduled or needed? Unknown
Regulation
When did the community enter the NFIP? 5/1/1984
Are the FIRMs digital or paper? Digital
Do floodplain development regulations meet or exceed FEMA or State
minimum requirements? If so, in what ways?
Meet
Provide an explanation of the permitting process. If a property is to be developed in the
floodplain, it must conform to the
standards laid out in the City’s floodplain
ordinance. Only if those standards are
met will a permit be issued.
Community Rating System (CRS)
Does the community participate in CRS? No
What is the community’s CRS Class Ranking? N/A
What categories and activities provide CRS points and how can the class
be improved?
N/A
Does the plan include CRS planning requirements? N/A
Source: FEMA/Azusa
5.1.2. Integration of Mitigation with Post Disaster Recovery and
Mitigation Strategy Funding Opportunities
Hazard Mitigation actions are essential to weaving long-term resiliency into all community recovery efforts
so that at-risk infrastructure, development, and other community assets are stronger and more resilient for
the next severe storm event. Mitigation measures to reduce the risk and vu lnerability of a community to
future disaster losses can be implemented in advance of a disaster event and also as part of post -disaster
recovery efforts.
Mitigation applied to recovery helps communities become more resilient and sustainable. It is often most
efficient to fund all eligible infrastructure mitigation through FEMA’s Public Assistance mitigation
program if the asset was damaged in a storm event. Mitigation work can be added to project worksheets if
they can be proven to be cost-beneficial.
Integration of mitigation into post disaster recovery efforts should be considered by all communities as part
of their post disaster redevelopment and mitigation policies and procedures. Post-disaster redevelopment
and mitigation policies and procedures should be evaluated and updated as part of the updates to the City’s
Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).
The EOP, through its policies and procedures, seek to mitigate the effects of hazards, prepare for measures
to be taken which will preserve life and minimize damage, enhance response during emergencies and
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provide necessary assistance, and establish a recovery system in order to return the community to their
normal state of affairs. Mitigation is emphasized as a major component of recovery efforts.
Mitigation Strategy Funding Opportunities
An understanding of the various funding streams and opportunities will enable the communities to match
identified mitigation projects with the grant programs that are most likely to fund them. Additionally, some
of the funding opportunities can be utilized together. Mitigation grant funding opportunities available pre-
and post- disaster include the following.
FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) Grants
Cal OES administers three main types of HMA grants: (1) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, (2) Pre-
Disaster Mitigation Program, and (3) Flood Mitigation Assistance Program. Eligible applicants for the
HMA include state and local governments, certain private non-profits, and federally recognized Indian
tribal governments. While private citizens cannot apply directly for the grant programs, they can benefit
from the programs if they are included in an application sponsored by an eligible applicant
FEMA Public Assistance Section 406 Mitigation
The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act provides FEMA the authority to fund
the restoration of eligible facilities that have sustained damage due to a presidentially declared disaster.
The regulations contain a provision for the consideration of funding additional measures that will enhance
a facility’s ability to resist similar damage in future events.
Community Development Block Grants
The California Department of Housing and Community Development administers the State’s Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) program with funding provided by the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development. The program is available to all non-entitlement communities that meet applicable
threshold requirements. All projects must meet one of the national objectives of the program – projects
must benefit 51 percent low- and moderate-income people, aid in the prevention or clearance of slum and
blight, or meet an urgent need. Grant funds can generally be used in federally declared disaster areas for
CDBG eligible activities including the replacement or repair of infrastructure and housing damaged during,
or as a result of, the declared disaster.
Small Business Loans
SBA offers low-interest, fixed-rate loans to disaster victims, enabling them to repair or repl ace property
damaged or destroyed in declared disasters. It also offers such loans to affected small businesses to help
them recover from economic injury caused by such disasters. Loans may also be increased up to 20 percent
of the total amount of disaster damage to real estate and/or leasehold improvements to make improvements
that lessen the risk of property damage by possible future disasters of the same kind.
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Increased Cost of Compliance
Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage is one of several resources for flood insurance policyholders
who need additional help rebuilding after a flood. It provides up to $30,000 to help cover the cost of
mitigation measures that will reduce flood risk. ICC coverage is a part of most standard flood insurance
policies available under NFIP.
5.2 Goals and Objectives
Requirement §201.6(c)(3)(i): [The hazard mitigation strategy shall include a] description of
mitigation goals to reduce or avoid long-term vulnerabilities to the identified hazards.
Up to this point in the planning process, the HMPC has organized resources, assessed hazards and risks,
and documented mitigation capabilities. The resulting goals, objectives, and mitigation actions were
developed based on these tasks. The HMPC held a series of meetings and exercises designed to achieve a
collaborative mitigation strategy as described further throughout this section. Appendix C documents the
information covered in these mitigation strategy meetings, including information on the goals development
and the identification and prioritization of mitigation alternatives by the HMPC.
During the initial goal-setting meeting, the HMPC reviewed the results of the hazard identification,
vulnerability assessment, and capability assessment. This analysis of the risk assessment identified areas
where improvements could be made and provided the framework for the HMPC to formulate planning goals
and objectives and to develop the mitigation strategy for Azusa.
Goals were defined for the purpose of this mitigation plan as broad-based public policy statements that:
➢ Represent basic desires of the community;
➢ Encompass all aspects of community, public and private;
➢ Are nonspecific, in that they refer to the quality (not the quantity) of the outcome;
➢ Are future-oriented, in that they are achievable in the future; and
➢ A time-independent, in that they are not scheduled events.
Goals are stated without regard to implementation. Implementation cost, schedule, and means are not
considered. Goals are defined before considering how to accomplish them so that they are not dependent
on the means of achievement. Goal statements form the basis for objectives and actions that will be used
as means to achieve the goals. Objectives define strategies to attain the goals and are more specific and
measurable.
HMPC members were given a list of sample goals to consider. They were told that they could use, combine,
or revise the statements provided or develop new ones, keeping the risk assessment in mind. Each member
was each given three index cards and asked to write a goal statement on each card. Goal statements were
collected and grouped into similar themes and pasted onto the wall of the meeting room. The goal
statements were then grouped into similar topics. New goals from the HMPC were discussed until the team
came to consensus. Some of the statements were determined to be better suited as objectives or actual
mitigation actions and were set aside for later use. As part of the goals exercise, the HMPC developed
objectives that summarized strategies to achieve each goal.
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Based on the risk assessment review and goal setting process, the HMPC identified the following goals and
objectives, which provide the direction for reducing future hazard-related losses within Azusa.
➢ Goal 1: Minimize risk and vulnerability of Azusa to natural hazards and protect lives and prevent
losses to property, public heath, economy, and the environment.
✓ Objective 1.1: Reduce the risk and vulnerability to the community from all identified hazards of
concern, with an emphasis on priority hazards, such as wildfire, flood, and earthquake.
✓ Objective 1.1: Provide protection for existing and future development.
✓ Objective 1.2: Provide protection for critical facilities, utilities, and services.
✓ Objective 1.3: Provide protection for natural resources and the environment.
➢ Goal 2: Increase community education, awareness, and preparedness to hazards of concern and
promote participation and action to reduce hazard-related losses.
✓ Objective 2.1: Improve resiliency from hazard events by increasing awareness and emphasizing
preparedness for city workers and residents.
✓ Objective 2.2: Inform and educate residents and businesses about all hazards they are exposed to,
where they occur, what they can do to mitigate exposure or damages.
✓ Objective 2.3: Make developers, builders, and the public aware that these mitigation measure are
cost effective and in their long-term best interest
✓ Objective 2.4: Increase use of technologies to better inform the public, before, during, and after an
emergency.
➢ Goal 3: Improve community’s capabilities to prevent/mitigate hazard-related losses and to be
prepared for, respond to, and recover from a disaster event.
✓ Objective 3.1: Continued improvements to emergency management capabilities to protect the
safety of all constituents, reduce losses, and speed community recovery.
✓ Objective 3.2: Make better use of technologies to enhance community preparedness and
readiness.
✓ Objective 3.3: Update, strengthen, and integrate community disaster preparedness, emergency
response, and recovery plans.
✓ Objective 3.4: Establish and coordinate departmental/agency policies and responsibilities for
hazard events through disaster planning and exercising
✓ Objective 3.5: Maintain community access to essential services and maintain current service
levels during a hazard event.
✓ Objective 3.6: Ensure availability of mutual aid resources and cooperation between all agencies.
✓ Objective 3.6: Promote hazard policies and standards in the Safety Element of the General Plan.
5.3 Identification and Analysis of Mitigation Actions
Requirement §201.6(c)(3)(ii): [The mitigation strategy shall include a] section that identifies and
analyzes a comprehensive range of specific mitigation actions and projects being considered to reduce
the effects of each hazard, with particular emphasis on new and existing buildings and infrastructure.
In order to identify and select mitigation actions to support the mitigation goals, each hazard identified in
Section 4.1 Identifying Hazards was evaluated. Only those hazards that were determined to be a priority
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hazard at the completion of the risk assessment were considered further in the development of hazard-
specific mitigation actions.
These priority hazards (in alphabetical order) are:
➢ Climate Change
➢ Dam Failure
➢ Drought and Water Shortage
➢ Earthquake
➢ Earthquake Liquefaction
➢ Flood: 1%/0.2% chance
➢ Flood: Localized/Stormwater
➢ Landslide and Mudslides
➢ Levee Failure
➢ Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms
➢ Severe Weather: High Winds and Tornadoes
➢ Wildfire
The HMPC eliminated the hazards identified below from further consideration in the development of
mitigation actions because the risk of a hazard event in the City is unlikely or nonexistent, the vulnerability
of the City is low, or capabilities are already in place to mitigate negative impacts. The eliminated hazards
are:
➢ Severe Weather: Extreme Heat
It is important to note, however, that all the hazards addressed in this plan are included in the City
multi-hazard public education and outreach mitigation action as well as in other multi-hazard,
emergency management and technology improvement actions.
Once it was determined which hazards warranted the development of specific mitigation actions, the HMPC
analyzed viable mitigation options that supported the identified goals and objectives. The HMPC was
provided with the following list of categories (or types) of mitigation actions, which originate from the
Community Rating System:
➢ Prevention (required to be evaluated)
➢ Property protection
➢ Structural projects
➢ Natural resource protection
➢ Emergency services
➢ Public information
The HMPC was provided with examples of potential mitigation actions for each of the above categories.
The HMPC was also instructed to consider both existing and future buildings in considering possible
mitigation actions. A facilitated discussion then took place to examine and analyze mitigation options by
category. Also utilized in the review of possible mitigation measures is FEMA’s publication on Mitigation
Ideas, by hazard type. Prevention type mitigation alternatives were discussed for each of the priority
hazards. This was followed by a brainstorming session that generated a list of preferred mitigation actions
by hazard.
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5.3.1. Prioritization Process
Once the mitigation actions were identified, the HMPC was provided with several decision-making tools,
including FEMA’s recommended prioritization criteria, STAPLEE; sustainable disaster recovery criteria;
Smart Growth principles; and others, to assist in deciding why one recommended action might be more
important, more effective, or more likely to be implemented than another. STAPLEE stands for the
following:
➢ Social: Does the measure treat people fairly? (e.g., different groups, different generations)
➢ Technical: Is the action technically feasible? Does it solve the problem?
➢ Administrative: Are there adequate staffing, funding, and other capabilities to implement the project?
➢ Political: Who are the stakeholders? Will there be adequate political and public support for the project?
➢ Legal: Does the jurisdiction have the legal authority to implement the action? Is it legal?
➢ Economic: Is the action cost-beneficial? Is there funding available? Will the action contribute to the
local economy?
➢ Environmental: Does the action comply with environmental regulations? Will there be negative
environmental consequences from the action?
In accordance with the DMA requirements, an emphasis was placed on the importance of a benefit-cost
analysis in determining action priority. Other criteria used to assist in evaluating the benefit-cost of a
mitigation action includes:
➢ Contribution of the action to save life or property
➢ Availability of funding and perceived cost-effectiveness
➢ Available resources for implementation
➢ Ability of the action to address the problem
The Mitigation Strategy Meeting Handout, which included hazard summaries, mitigation action categories,
sample hazard actions, and prioritization criteria are included in Appendix C.
With initial lists of potential mitigation actions identified and the prioritization criteria in mind, HMPC
members were each given a set of nine colored dots, three each of red, blue, and green . The dots were
assigned red for high priority (worth five points), blue for medium priority (worth three points), and green
for low priority (worth one point). The team was asked to use the dots to prioritize actions considering the
various prioritization criteria reviewed for this effort. The point score for each action was totaled.
Appendix C contains the total score given to each identified mitigation action.
Figure 5-1 Mitigation Action Prioritization
The process of identification and analysis of mitigation alternatives allo wed the HMPC to come to
consensus and to prioritize recommended mitigation actions. During the voting process, emphasis was
placed on the importance of a benefit-cost review in determining project priority; however, this was not a
quantitative analysis. The team agreed that prioritizing the actions collectively enabled the actions to be
ranked in order of relative importance and helped steer the development of additional actions that meet the
more important objectives while eliminating some of the actions which did not garner much support.
Benefit-cost was also considered in greater detail in the development of the Mitigation Action Plan detailed
below in Section 5.4. The cost-effectiveness of any mitigation alternative will be considered in greater
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detail through performing benefit-cost project analyses when seeking FEMA mitigation grant funding for
eligible actions associated with this plan.
Recognizing the limitations in prioritizing actions from multiple jurisdictions and departments and the
regulatory requirement to prioritize by benefit-cost to ensure cost-effectiveness, the HMPC decided to
pursue actions that contributed to saving lives and property as first and foremost, with additional
consideration given to the benefit-cost aspect of a project. This process drove the development of a
determination of a high, medium, or low priority for each mitigation action, and a comprehensive prioritized
action plan for the City of Azusa.
5.4 Mitigation Action Plan
Requirement §201.6(c)(3)(iii): [The mitigation strategy section shall include] an action plan
describing how the actions identified in section (c)(3)(ii) will be prioritized, implemented, and
administered by the local jurisdiction. Prioritization shall include a special emphasis on the extent to
which benefits are maximized according to a cost benefit review of the proposed projects and their
associated costs.
This action plan was developed to present the recommendations developed by the HMPC for how the City
of Azusa can reduce the risk and vulnerability of people, property, infrastructure, natural and cultural
resources, and economic impacts to future disaster losses. Emphasis was placed on both existing and future
development. The action plan summarizes who is responsible for implementing each of the prioritized
actions as well as when and how the actions will be implemented. Each action summary also includes a
discussion of the benefit-cost review conducted to meet the regulatory requirements of the DMA 2000.
Table 5-2 provides a summary of mitigation actions and lead department/jurisdiction for each action.
Following this summary table of mitigation actions, a detailed implementation description is included for
each mitigation action identified in the table. The implementation of any mitigation action in this Plan is
subject to available funding and partnership of the City as the primary implementing agency for this LHMP.
As described throughout this LHMP, Azusa has many risks and vulnerabilities to identified hazards.
Although many possible mitigation actions, as detailed in Appendix C, were brainstormed and prioritized
during the mitigation strategy meetings, the resulting mitigation strategy presented in this Chapter 5 of this
LHMP focuses only on those mitigation actions that are both reasonable and realistic for the community to
consider for implementation over the next 5-years covered by this plan. Thus, only a portion of the actions
identified in Appendix C have been carried forward into the mitigation strategy presented in Table 5-2.
Although many good ideas were developed during the mitigation action brainstorming proc ess, the reality
of determining which priority actions to develop and include in this Plan came down to the actual priorities
of individuals and departments based in part on department direction, staffing, and available funding. The
overall value of the mitigation action table in Appendix C is that it represents a wide -range of mitigation
actions that can be consulted and developed for this Plan at a later date during annual plan reviews and/or
the formal 5-year update process.
It is important to note that Azusa has numerous existing, detailed action descriptions, which include benefit-
cost estimates, in other planning documents, such as fire plans, climate change and stormwater plans, and
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capital improvement budgets and reports. These actions are considered to be part of this plan, and the
details, to avoid duplication, should be referenced in their original source document. The HMPC also
realizes that new needs and priorities may arise as a result of a disaster or other circumstances and reserves
the right to support new actions, as necessary, as long as they conform to the overall goals of this Plan.
It should also be clarified that the actions included in this mitigation strategy are subject to further review
and refinement; alternatives analyses; and reprioritization due to funding availability and/or other criteria.
The City of Azusa is not obligated by this document to implement any or all of these projects. Rather this
mitigation strategy represents the desires of the community to mitigate the ri sks and vulnerabilities from
identified hazards. The actual selection, prioritization, and implementation of these actions will also be
further evaluated in accordance with the CRS mitigation categories and criteria contained in Appendix C ,
and as always subject to funding availability.
Further, many of these mitigation efforts are collaborative efforts among multiple local, state, and federal
agencies. In addition, the public outreach action, as well as many of the emergency services actions, apply
to all hazards regardless of hazard priority.
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Table 5-2 City of Azusa’s Mitigation Actions
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
Multi-Hazard Mitigation Actions
1. Integrate Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan into Safety Element of General
Plan
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Prevention
2. Public Awareness, Education,
Outreach, and Preparedness Program
Enhancements.
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X X Public Information
3. Establish CERT Program 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Emergency Service
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Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
4. Develop Emergency Operations Plan
(EOP) Update and all Annexes
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Emergency Services
5. Evacuation Planning 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Emergency Services
6. City Ordinance and Regulatory
Updates for All Hazards
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
City of Azusa 5-13
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
7. Coordinate Mitigation Efforts 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
Emergency Services
Public Information
8. GIS Mapping and Data Updates 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Earthquake,
Earthquake Liquefaction, Flood:
1%/0.2% chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide
and Mudslides, Levee Failure,
Tornadoes, and Wildfire
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Emergency Services
9. Above Ground Storage Tanks 1, 2, 3 Drought and Water Shortage,
Earthquake, and Wildfire
X X Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Emergency Services
10. Access Road Improvements 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood: Localized/
Stormwater, Landslide and
Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Property Protection
Emergency Services
City of Azusa 5-14
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
Climate Change Actions
11. Climate Change Planning 1, 2, 3 Climate Change (and all hazards
affected by it)
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
Drought Actions
12. Drought Program 1, 2, 3 Drought and Water Shortage X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
Earthquake and Liquefaction Actions
13. Earthquake Program 1, 2, 3 Earthquake, Liquefaction, and
Dam Failure
X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Flood, Localized Flood, Levee Failure, and Dam Failure Actions
14. Flood/Stormwater Program 1, 2, 3 Localized Flood, Flood (1% and
.2% Annual Chance), Levee
Failure, Dam Failure
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Landslide Actions
15. Landslide Program 1, 2, 3 Landslide X X Prevention
Property Protection
Emergency Services
City of Azusa 5-15
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
Severe Weather Actions
16. Severe Weather Program 1, 2, 3 Drought, Heavy Rains and Storms,
High Winds and Tornadoes
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Emergency Services
Public Information
Wildfire Actions
17. Wildfire Program – Fuels
Management
1, 2, 3 Wildfire X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
18. Wildfire Program – Water
Management
1, 2, 3 Wildfire, Drought and Water
Shortage
X X Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
City of Azusa 5-16
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Multi-Hazard Mitigation Actions
Action 1. Integrate Local Hazard Mitigation Plan into Safety Element of General Plan
Hazards Addressed: Dam Failure, Drought and Water Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake Liquefaction,
Flood: 1%/0.2% chance, Flood: Localized/Stormwater, Landslide and Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms, Severe Weather: High Winds and Tornadoes, and Wildfire
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: Local jurisdictional reimbursement for mitigation projects and cost recovery after a
disaster is guided by Government Code Section 8685.9 (AB 2140).
Project Description: Specifically, AB 2140 requires that each jurisdiction adopt a local hazard mitigation
plan (LHMP) in accordance with the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 as part of the Safety Element
of its General Plan. Adoption of the LHMP into the Safety Element of the General Plan may be by reference
or incorporation.
Other Alternatives: No action
Existing Planning Mechanisms through which Action will be Implemented: Safety Element of General
Plan
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Economic and Community Development Department
Planning Division
Project Priority: High
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time
Benefits (avoided Losses): Incorporation of an adopted LHMP into the Safety Element of the General
Plan will help jurisdictions maximize the cost recovery potential following a disaster.
Potential Funding: General Plan Update Fee
Timeline: As soon as possible
Action 2. Public Awareness, Education, Outreach, and Preparedness Program Enhancements.
Hazards Addressed: Dam Failure, Drought and Water Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake Liquefaction,
Flood: 1%/0.2% chance, Flood: Localized/Stormwater, Landslide and Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms, Severe Weather: High Winds and Tornadoes, and Wildfire
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: Educate the community on how to seek information before, during, and after a disaster.
City of Azusa 5-17
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Project Description: Improve/Enhance public education, engagement, and preparedness, mitigation,
response, and recovery programs for all hazards using multi -media, educate, messaging, target audiences;
promote self-responsibility; sustainability. Public awareness activities foster changes in behavior leading
towards a culture of risk reduction. Examples of how this will be carried out include the following:
Multi-hazard
➢ Notification of Emergency Events and Shelters
✓ Use social media and a cell phone registration service to help notify residents of emergency events
requiring evacuation and locations of emergency centers.
✓ Upon activating the emergency centers, place public information on the City website, City social
media, and on the public access channel on cable television.
✓ Provide emergency hot line at City Hall with pre-recorded message to inform the public of
emergency response and recovery activities. A list of emergency centers shall be provided on the
recording.
Drought
➢ Inform the public of water conservation restrictions and drought conditions.
Earthquake
➢ Develop and make available to all residents and businesses literature on hazard prevention, mitigation,
and disaster response, including information on how to earthquake-proof residences and places of
business, and information on what to do before, during and after an earthquake. Reminders will be
issued periodically to encourage the review and renewal of earthquake-preparedness kits and other
emergency preparedness materials and procedures.
➢ Encourage owners of potentially hazardous buildings, including pre-1952 wood-frame structures,
concrete tilt-ups, pre-1971 reinforced masonry, soft-story, and multi-family residential buildings, to
assess the seismic vulnerability of their structures and conduct seismic retrofitting as necessary to
improve the building’s resistance to seismic shaking.
➢ Hold seismic preparation workshops to educate community residents and businesses about securing
property to reduce damage during an earthquake.
Flood: 1%/0.2% Chance and Localized/Stormwater
➢ Encourage property owners to improve drainage on their properties through low-impact development
features, particularly property owners in and adjacent to flood hazard areas.
Severe Weather
➢ As part of mitigation and regular emergency preparedness education, continue to notify community
members of current or future El Niño conditions, the anticipated impacts, and appropriate ways to
mitigate and prepare.
City of Azusa 5-18
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Wildfire
➢ Continue to support the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Cal FIRE, California State Fire Marshal,
and other relevant agencies to promote the implementation and awareness of fire prevention programs.
➢ Explore holding an annual or bi-annual Wildfire Forum with Emergency Response providers, City and
County wildfire personnel, City staff, elected and appointed officials, and the citizens of Azusa.
➢ Update the public on vegetative and fire management activities via communication mechanisms in
Azusa such as meetings; temporary signs at affected properties; the City web sites; newspapers; and
direct mailings.
✓ Hold neighborhood meetings in interface neighborhoods to educate the residents on fire mitigation
and prevention methods.
✓ Produce public information brochures that encourage residents to plant fire resistant landscaping,
to clear dry brush, and to consider fire-resistant building materials.
✓ Publish fire prevention articles in City newsletter related to fire evacuation, fire escape plans, and
fire safety.
Other Alternatives: Continue with limited hazard-based public outreach efforts
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: City of Azusa Police
Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department, PIO’s from Police Department and City, along with
established community groups; CERT, AACES.
Responsible Office/Partners: All City of Azusa Departments, Los Angeles County Fire Department
Project Priority: High
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Protect Life and Property, Public Awareness, Community Involvement
Potential Funding: FEMA/State Grants, City of Azusa Department Budgets
Timeline: Immediate/On-going
Action 3. Maintain CERT Program
Hazards Addressed: Dam Failure, Drought and Water Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake Liquefaction,
Flood: 1%/0.2% chance, Flood: Localized/Stormwater, Landslide and Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms, Severe Weather: High Winds and Tornadoes, and Wildfire
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: City of Azusa would continue to enhance its community participation in the
preparedness, response, and recovery during a disaster or community emergency.
City of Azusa 5-19
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Project Description: Study cost effective ways to maintain on-going CERT program classes and training.
Maintain a CERT program using a variety of cost saving methods, volunteers, and on-duty police and fire
personnel.
Other Alternatives: No Action
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented : City of Azusa Police
Department and Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel.
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Police Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department
Project Priority: Medium
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Protect Life and Property, Public Awareness, Community Partnership
Potential Funding: City of Azusa Police Department Budget, Los Angeles County Fire Department
Budget
Timeline: 2018
Action 4. Update Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and All Annexes
Hazards Addressed: Dam Failure, Drought and Water Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake Liquefaction,
Flood: 1%/0.2% chance, Flood: Localized/Stormwater, Landslide and Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms, Severe Weather: High Winds and Tornadoes, and Wildfire
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: Existing City of Azusa EOP and annexes needs updating due to changes within the
City regarding infrastructure, geography, residential, and staff changes since the completion of the City’s
current EOP.
Project Description: This project involves conducting a detailed update to the City of Azusa’s current
EOP, including all annexes.
Other Alternatives: Continue to work under an outdated EOP.
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: City of Azusa EOP.
Police Department and all other City department staff and operating budget to be used to complete the
project.
Responsible Office/Partners: All City of Azusa Departments
Project Priority: High
City of Azusa 5-20
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time; Consultant costs $10,000 to $25,000
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Project/Plan can decrease employee/citizen injury/death and property losses.
Potential Funding: City of Azusa Police Department Budget
Timeline: As soon as possible
Action 5. Evacuation Planning
Hazards Addressed: Dam Failure, Drought and Water Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake Liquefaction,
Flood: 1%/0.2% chance, Flood: Localized/Stormwater, Landslide and Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms, Severe Weather: High Winds and Tornadoes, and Wildfire
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: During times where natural hazards or man-made hazards strike, evacuations may
become necessary.
Project Description: This project seeks to enhance the ability of the City of Azusa to perform community
evacuations.. Specifically, the following will be done:
➢ Annually re-evaluate evacuation resources and update the evacuation plan.
➢ Prepare a Dam Failure response and evacuation plan that can be incorporated into the City's Emergency
Operations Plan.
Other Alternatives: Rely on Los Angeles County evacuation plans and systems.
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: Existing City and Los
Angeles County evacuation plans.
Responsible Office/Partners: All City of Azusa and Los Angeles County Departments
Project Priority: High
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Increased life safety for those who are fleeing a natural disaster.
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund, Los Angeles County General Fund, Grants
Timeline: 2019 to 2020
Action 6. City Ordinance and Regulatory Updates for All Hazards
Hazards Addressed: Dam Failure, Drought and Water Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake Liquefaction,
Flood: 1%/0.2% chance, Flood: Localized/Stormwater, Landslide and Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms, Severe Weather: High Winds and Tornadoes, and Wildfire
City of Azusa 5-21
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: Ongoing review and update relevant portions of the City’s Municipal Code or other
regulatory measures is necessary to ensure compliance with Federal or State regulations relative to hazards.
Project Description: The City can reduce risk by maintaining, updating, and enforcing City ordinances
and regulations. This includes:
Multi-Hazard
➢ Review and update the City’s existing ordinances as they relate to hazards and risks identified in this
LHMP.
Earthquake and Liquefaction
➢ Explore creating an ordinance requiring seismically vulnerable structures to conduct earthquake
resistant retrofitting over a phased period and/or when major renovation occurs.
➢ To deal with earthquake and liquefaction hazards, the City shall conduct the following activities:
✓ Continue to adopt and enforce the most up-to-date California Building Code and California Fire
Code with local amendments, and continue to support the training of City staff in the provisions of
the latest codes, to provide for seismic safety and fire safety design.
✓ Regulate the location of new essential or critical facilities in areas that would be directly affected
by seismic and geologic hazards (including surface fault rupture, liquefaction, and slope instability)
to ensure the facility will not be located in an area identified as susceptible to damage from a natural
hazard.
✓ Continue to require fault rupture hazard assessment studies for qualifying projects proposed in the
Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones and Fault Hazard Management Zones mapped through the
City.
✓ Continue to require liquefaction assessment studies for qualifying projects proposed in areas of the
City mapped as susceptible to liquefaction, and in areas where geotechnical testing shows the
sediments are susceptible to liquefaction, require the implementation of mitigation measures as a
condition of approval.
➢ Establish a zoning overlay for the Alquist-Priolo hazard zone, and create and enforce development
standards for new construction activities in this hazard zone to improve the resiliency of new structures
to seismic hazards.
➢ Require new development in the liquefaction vulnerability zone to conduct liquefaction vulnerability
studies and conduct liquefaction mitigation activities as needed.
Flood and Localized Flood
➢ Continually monitor and review FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements to
ensure that Municipal Code Chapter 14, Article XVI, Floodplain Management Regulations, is in
compliance. Participate in the FEMA NFIP Community Rating System (CRS).
➢ Review and update Municipal Code Chapter 14, Article XVI, Floodplain Management Regulations, as
it relates to storm/flooding hazards, consistent with the risks identified in this LHMP.
City of Azusa 5-22
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Severe Weather Hazards
➢ Design future critical infrastructure to withstand severe weather events beyond minimum Building
Code standards.
Wildfire
➢ Adopt and enforce the most up-to-date California Building Code and California Fire Code, with local
amendments as appropriate.
➢ Continue to provide development standards and zoning handouts to property owners and contractors
that describe the fire prevention measures contained within the Very High Fire Hazard areas including
unobstructed fire protection equipment access easements, Class A roof materials, fire hydrant locations,
and water main minimum requirements.
➢ Update the development standards with new fire prevention measures as needed to address the
construction of new buildings and infrastructure.
Other Alternatives: No Action
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: Municipal Code
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Economic and Community Development, Police
Department, Public Works Department, City Manager, and City Attorney
Project Priority: High
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Increased life and property safety. Increased safety to critical facilities.
Maintain proper relationships with state, federal, and other local governments.
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund
Timeline: Ongoing
Action 7. Coordinate Mitigation Efforts
Hazards Addressed: Dam Failure, Drought and Water Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake Liquefaction,
Flood: 1%/0.2% chance, Flood: Localized/Stormwater, Landslide and Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms, Severe Weather: High Winds and Tornadoes, and Wildfire
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: Natural disasters are often regional events, affecting multiple areas. Coordination
between areas in and near the natural disaster is crucial for both life safety and recovery.
Project Description: The City seeks to coordinate with other cities, outside agencies, and the County to
increase mitigation capabilities. Specifically, the City seeks to:
City of Azusa 5-23
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
➢ Coordinate hazard mitigation progress/efforts with the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency
Management and other agencies and cities within Los Angeles County.
➢ Continue to maintain cooperative fire protection and fire prevention mutual aid agreements with local
cities, Los Angeles County, State of California, and Federal agencies.
➢ Coordinate with Los Angeles County Fire Department (through contract services) to replace out -of-
date apparatus and equipment on a scheduled basis.
Other Alternatives: Rely on Los Angeles County Departments and services.
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: Mutual Aid Agreements
Responsible Office/Partners: City Manager, City Attorney, City of Azusa Police Department, Los
Angeles County Office of Emergency Management, Los Angeles County Fire Department
Project Priority: Medium
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Increased life and property safety, as well as faster recovery post-disaster.
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund; Mutual Aid Agreements
Timeline: Ongoing
Action 8. GIS Mapping and Data Updates
Hazards Addressed: Dam Failure, Earthquake, Earthquake Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2% chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide and Mudslides, Levee Failure, Tornadoes, and Wildfire
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: Ongoing review and update of GIS maps is necessary to maintain current maps of
hazards within the City.
Project Description: GIS mapping is performed both by outside agencies and the City. The City seeks to
do the following:
➢ Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Hazard Mapping. Coordinate with appropriate agencies when
mapping updates are performed for all hazards that have a clearly defined extent and location (i.e., dam
failure, levee failure, flood, earthquake, landslide, and wildfire)
➢ Develop a map to identify urban flooding “hot-spots” areas in the City for maintenance needs and the
identification of future stormwater management projects.
Other Alternatives: No Action
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: Data from City, Los
Angeles County, State of California, and Federal Emergency Management Agency.
City of Azusa 5-24
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Information Technology Department
Project Priority: High
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time; Software update costs $25,000 to $75,000
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Mitigation of properties can occur before expected natural disaster events
occur. This can lead to increased property protection and increased life safety.
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund
Timeline: Ongoing
Action 9. Above Ground Storage Tanks
Hazards Addressed: Drought and Water Shortage, Earthquake, and Wildfire
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: The City may experience flooding of public infrastructure due to the failure of above-
ground water storage tanks.
Project Description: The City is evaluating the above-ground water storage tanks in the City to assess
their potential inundation hazard in the event of catastrophic failure and ensure that all tanks are fitted with
the appropriate seismic safeguards, including shut-off valves, in accordance with the most recent water tank
design guidelines.
Other Alternatives: No Action
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented : City of Azusa
Emergency Operations Plan, Capital Improvements Plan
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Light and Water, Public Works Department
Project Priority: Medium
Cost Estimate: Cost of Individual Above-Ground Water Storage Tank $50,000 to $100,000
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Loss of available water supply.
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund; City of Azusa Capital Improvement Plan; Grant
Opportunities for Hazard Mitigation;
Timeline: 2022
City of Azusa 5-25
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Action 10. Access Road Improvements
Hazards Addressed: Dam Failure, Drought and Water Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake Liquefaction,
Flood: 1%/0.2% chance, Flood: Localized/Stormwater, Landslide and Mudslides, Levee Failure, Severe
Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms, Severe Weather: High Winds and Tornadoes, and Wildfire
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: The City of Azusa transportation network consists of freeways, roads and rail systems.
Disruption to any part of this system would result in a major safety and economic impacts to the City and
surround areas. Ground transportation is essential for ingress and egress for emergency vehicles during
disasters and is essential for police services. Access for emergency vehicles on freeways, highways, primary
roads, and secondary roads due to road damage can significantly increase response times.
Project Description: Conduct a City-wide study to identify all access roadways, and identify which access
roadways are inadequate. Develop a program to address inadequacies by altering the roadway design, if
possible, as well as a maintenance schedule (e.g., pavement index).
Other Alternatives: No Action
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: None
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Public Works Department, Police Department, Light and
Water; Los Angeles County Department of Public Works; Los Angeles County Fire Department
Project Priority: Low
Cost Estimate: $200,000
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Increased life safety in event of evacuations. Speeds emergency service
response times to areas where roads may be poorer.
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund, Los Angeles County Transportation Authority (Metro)
Measure M
Timeline: 2020
City of Azusa 5-26
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Climate Change Actions
Action 11. Climate Change Planning
Hazards Addressed: Climate Change and all hazards affected by it.
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: Climate change is expected to lead to increases in the frequency, intensity, and
duration of extreme heat events and heat waves in Azusa, which are likely to increase the risk of mortality
and morbidity due to heat-related illness and exacerbation of existing chronic health conditions. Intense
rainfall events, periodically ones with larger than historical runoff, will continue to affect California with
more frequent and/or more extensive flooding, which may increase the probability of floods and levee and
dam failures, and mudflows. Droughts are likely to become more frequent and persistent in the 21st century,
which can increase the probability of wildfires.
Project Description: As part of the General Plan Update process, develop a plan to address climate
change/climate adaptation and resiliency issues within the City and its surroundings.
Other Alternatives: Incorporate change/climate adaptation and resiliency topics within existing General
Plan elements.
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: City of Azusa General
Plan
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Economic and Community Development Department
Project Priority: High
Cost Estimate: $75,000 to $150,000
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Reduced risk to people, property, and the environment from the effects of
climate change.
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund, General Plan Update Fee
Timeline: As part of next General Plan update.
City of Azusa 5-27
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Drought Actions
Action 12. Drought Program
Hazards Addressed: Drought and Water Shortage
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: The vulnerability of the City to drought is citywide, and as such, the City may
experience a reduction in water supply and an increase in dry fuels. Azusa Light and Water has a t least a
10-year planning horizon to implement improvement projects to mitigate the effects of a drought and water
supply shortage.
Project Description: The City seeks to reduce drought and water shortage risk by pursuing the following:
➢ Implement increased water conservation strategies that maximize the use of existing water resources.
➢ Develop and implement long-term strategies to reduce community water use, including mandatory use
of drought- tolerant plants in new or replacement landscapes, and requirements to install water fixtures
in new buildings that exceed minimum code requirements.
➢ Continue to implement and enforce State and City drought regulations during drought emergency
conditions.
➢ Consider implementing additional mandatory restrictions on water use during drought conditions.
➢ Incorporate drought-tolerant landscaping and materials at City park and recreation facilities and City
properties, where feasible.
➢ Add compost and mulch to landscaped areas, as feasible, to reduce water evaporation.
➢ Hold water saving workshops, drought-tolerant courses, and smart gardening classes, and educate
community residents and businesses about available rebates for water-efficient and water- conserving
equipment.
➢ Continue to seek funding and provide rebate opportunities for residents and businesses to incorporate
drought-tolerant landscaping.
➢ Partner with local organizations to offer low-cost or free water audits to residents and businesses.
Other Alternatives: State Mandates
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: City of Azusa
Municipal Code
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Light and Water, Economic and Community Development
Department, Public Works Department, Recreation and Family Services Department
Project Priority: Medium
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Reduced risk to property and the environment from drought and water shortage
impacts.
City of Azusa 5-28
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund, Water Conservation Plan, Grant Opportunities for
Drought Mitigation and Resiliency, Climate Change, Sustainability, Etc.
Timeline: Ongoing
City of Azusa 5-29
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Earthquake and Liquefaction Actions
Action 13. Earthquake Program
Hazards Addressed: Earthquake, Liquefaction, and Dam Failure
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: Azusa has aging public and private facilities, infrastructure, roads, and bridges that
may not be able to survive a seismic event. Being located in a geographical region that may be impacted
by seismic activity it is important to test the vulnerability of the dams and levees protecting the region as
well as aging facilities and infrastructure.
Project Description: In order to mitigate the effects of earthquake, liquefaction, and potential dam failure
from earthquake, the City will pursue the following:
➢ Conduct a seismic evaluation of essential/critical facilities, such as municipal-owned facilities, schools,
and convalescent homes and hospitals that are located in or near mapped faults, or in areas mapped as
susceptible to liquefaction or earthquake-induced slope instability. Seek funding sources to retrofit
facilities at risk.
➢ Where appropriate, relocate, strengthen, or retrofit those essential/critical facilities found to be at risk
from seismic hazards.
➢ Conduct an inventory of seismically vulnerable private buildings, including unreinforced masonry and
soft first-story structures, and prioritize retrofits for more vulnerable structures and lower income
housing. Identify potential funding sources to assist with seismic retrofits.
➢ In cooperation with utility providers, conduct seismic evaluations of gas lines, water distribution
pipelines, sewer lines and critical roadways that extend across mapped fault zones. Seek funding to
strengthen those lifelines found to be at risk.
Other Alternatives: No Action
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented : City of Azusa
Municipal Code
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Light and Water, Public Works Department, Economic and
Community Development Department, Southern California Gas Company, Southern California Edison,
Project Priority: Medium
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time, Seismic Study $500,000 to $1,000,000
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Reduced risk to people, property, and the environment. Limit economic
impacts to City
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund, Grants
Timeline: 2021, 2022, and ongoing
City of Azusa 5-30
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
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Flood, Localized Flood, Levee Failure, and Dam Failure Actions
Action 14. Flood/Stormwater Program
Hazards Addressed: Localized Flood, Flood (1% and .2% Annual Chance), Levee Failure, Dam Failure
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: The City may experience risks associated with flooding from a dam or levee failure
or other flood events, as well as risks due to aging internal drainage infrastructure. Although dam or levee
failure may result in much more catastrophic damage than flooding from inter nal drainage, most of the
City’s flood damage has resulted from drainage deficiencies.
Project Description: In order to reduce flood risk in the City, Azusa is pursuing the following:
➢ Assist in the planning and/or improvement of stormwater facilities to help minimize flooding impacts,
particularly in critical flood-prone areas.
➢ Construct new and/or retrofit existing stormwater facilities identified in the City's Capital
Improvements Program to manage stormwater from severe storm and flood events.
➢ Continue to evaluate the effectiveness of City-owned drain systems and carry out improvements, as
needed. Monitor City-owned drainage infrastructure during rain events, and take emergency action as
necessary to avoid or minimize flooding.
➢ The City seeks to prepare a Stormwater Master Plan to address drainage and flood control.
Other Alternatives: No Action
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: Capital Improvements
Program
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Public Works Department
Project Priority: Medium
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time, Stormwater Master Plan costs up to $300,000
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Reduced risk to people and property from flooding
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund and Capital Improvements Plan; Bond Financing; Grant
Opportunities for Flood Hazard Mitigation, Grants
Timeline: Ongoing, 2022
City of Azusa 5-31
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Landslide Actions
Action 15. Landslide Program
Hazards Addressed: Landslide
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: Earthquakes may cause landslides. This is true in the sloped areas of the Azusa
foothills. Steep topography, weak rocks, heavy winter rains, and occasional earthquakes all lead to slope
failures more frequently than would otherwise occur under gravity alone, particularly during the wet season,
in areas of high water or saturated soil.
Project Description: In order to reduce risk to landslide, the City will monitor slope stability in landslide-
prone areas, and issue evacuation notices if slopes appear unstable. The City can also determine any
measures necessary to protect critical infrastructure and other property.
Other Alternatives: No Action
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: City of Azusa General
Plan Natural Environment Element, Municipal Code
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Public Works Department, Police Department, Economic
and Community Development Department Building Division, Los Angeles County Fire Department
Project Priority: Medium
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Reduced risk to people, property and critical facilities from landslide.
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund
Timeline: Ongoing
City of Azusa 5-32
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Severe Weather Actions
Action 16. Severe Weather Program
Hazards Addressed: Drought, Heavy Rains and Storms, High Winds and Tornadoes
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: The City experiences severe weather from heavy rain and storms and high winds; both
the primary and secondary effects have caused damage in the City.
Project Description: In order to be prepared for and reduce risk from severe weather, the City will pursue:
➢ Continue to work with Azusa Light and Water (L&W) and Southern California Edison (SCE) to
relocate above-ground power lines and associated infrastructure underground in order to reduce damage
from fallen power lines during severe wind events.
➢ Continue to send requests for tree trimming in the City to L&W and SCE for trees located in close
proximity to overhead power lines.
➢ Monitor trees, limbs, and other vegetation near power lines, and promptly inform ALP and SCE of the
need for any tree trimming.
➢ Continue coordination with the National Weather Service (NWS) Decision Support program to be
advised of upcoming weather conditions in a manner that enables smart decisions and disaster
preparedness.
➢ Continue to regularly monitor El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions and incorporate
forecasted conditions into short-term emergency planning.
➢ Continue to open cooling centers during severe heat conditions.
Other Alternatives: No Action
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented : City Emergency
Operations Plans, City Public Information Office
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Recreation and Family Services Department, Police
Department, Public Works Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department
Project Priority: High
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time; Underground power lines or other associated infrastructure $1,000,000
to $10,000,000
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Reduced risk to people, property, and critical facilities from all severe weather
hazards.
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund, Los Angeles County General Fund, Grants
Timeline: Ongoing
City of Azusa 5-33
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Wildfire Actions
Action 17. Wildfire Program Fuels Management
Hazards Addressed: Wildfire
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: Fire conditions arise from a combination of hot weather, an accumulation of
vegetation, and low moisture content in the air. These conditions when combined with high winds and years
of drought increase the potential for a wildfire to occur in Azusa. Urban wildfires often occur in those areas
where development has expanded into the rural areas. A fire along this urban/rural interface can result in
major losses of property and structures in the City.
Project Description: This project seeks to reduce fuels in and around the City by:
➢ Consider opportunities for cost share slash/mulch activities/modification/fuel reduction programs on a
community or multi-community basis.
➢ Continue fire inspections and brush clearance programs sponsored by the Los Angeles County Fire
Department and Los Angeles County Agricultural Commission.
➢ Develop a brush clearance plan that addresses fuel modification/reduction on annual schedule for public
and private parcels. The schedule will remain flexible to meet staff workload and funding options,
management objectives, neighborhood groups and other strategic inputs. Work with neighborhood
groups who have demonstrated a commitment to hazardous fuels reduction and those neighborhoods
who would benefit from a demonstration site where one has been proposed. Incorporate best
management practice guidance set forth by the Cal FIRE.
➢ Develop a brush clearance and fuel modification/reduction plan that identifies a schedule for
completion for maintenance of City-owned properties identified as needing a management plan. Work
collaboratively with State and Federal agencies to plan, prepare, and implement fuel treatment options
for the landscape, particularly as funding and cooperative opportunities become available for these
items.
Other Alternatives: No Action
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: General Plan Safety
Element, City of Azusa Municipal Code
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Economic and Community Development Department
Community Improvement Division, Los Angeles County Fire Department, United States Forest Service,
Rivers and Mountains Conservancy, Los Angeles County Department of Agricultural
Commissioner/Weights and Measures
Project Priority: Medium
Cost Estimate: $80,000-$100,000
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Reduced risk to people, property, critical facilities, and the environment from
wildfires
City of Azusa 5-34
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund, Los Angeles County General Fund, United States Forest
Service, Grant Opportunities for Disaster Preparedness, Hazard Mitigation, Resiliency, Etc.
Timeline: Within 5 years
Action 18. Wildfire Program – Water Management
Hazards Addressed: Wildfire, Drought and Water Shortage
Goals Addressed: 1, 2, 3
Issue/Background: The City is located at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. The fuels from adjacent
natural lands and the weather in California make it necessary for the City to plan for wildfires, drought
conditions, and available water supply.
The vulnerability of the City to drought is citywide, and as such, the City may experience a reduction in
water supply and an increase in dry fuels. Azusa Light and Water has at least a 10-year planning horizon to
implement improvement projects to mitigate the effects of a drought and water supply shortage.
Project Description: This project seeks to do the following to mitigate wildfire through a continuous and
enhanced water supply:
➢ Identify additional water sources within the City and outside the City that may be available for fighting
fires.
➢ Coordinate and advocate with the U.S. Forest Service to install portable tanks filled with water or flame
retardant chemical in strategic locations in the forest areas in the Very High Fire Hazard areas.
➢ To ensure an adequate supply of water for wildfire fighting purposes, the City shall conduct the
following activities:
✓ Ensure City equipment is up to date and maintained to supplement the Los Angeles County Fire
Department efforts (including City water trucks, City trucks, and tools), especially during red flag
warning days.
✓ Ensure that there are an appropriate number of generators for emergency power, and compatibility
with Los Angeles County Fire Department supply. Specifically, these generators will be used to
provide back-up power systems in the event of an electrical power failure in order to pump water
supply into water tanks for fire suppression.
✓ Identify all swimming pools via curb markers to be used for emergency pumping
Other Alternatives: No Action
Existing Planning Mechanism(s) through which Action Will Be Implemented: City of Azusa General
Plan Safety Element, Municipal Code, Azusa Light and Water Urban Water Management Plan
Responsible Office/Partners: City of Azusa Light and Water, Economic and Community Development
Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department
Project Priority: Medium
City of Azusa 5-35
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
January 2019
Cost Estimate: City Staff Time, Los Angeles County Fire Department Staff Time; Fire Prevention
Equipment $50,000 to $200,000
Benefits (Losses Avoided): Increased life safety and property protection. Reduced risk of losses to homes,
businesses, and critical infrastructure.
Potential Funding: City of Azusa General Fund, Grant Opportunities for Disaster Preparedness, Hazard
Mitigation, Resiliency, Etc.
Timeline: Within 5 years
City of Azusa 6-1
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Chapter 6 Plan Adoption
Requirement §201.6(c)(5): [The local hazard mitigation plan shall include] documentation that the
plan has been formally approved by the governing body of the jurisdiction requesting approval of
the plan (e.g., City Council, county commissioner, Tribal Council).
The purpose of formally adopting this plan is to secure buy-in from the City of Azusa, raise awareness of
the plan, and formalize the plan’s implementation. The adoption of this LHMP completes Planning Step 9
of the 10-step planning process: Adopt the Plan, in accordance with the requirements of DMA 2000. This
adoption also establishes compliance with AB 2140 requiring adoption by reference or incorporation into
the Safety Element of the Azusa General Plan.
The Azusa City Council has adopted this Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by passing a resolution. A copy of
the sample resolution and the executed copy for the City (pending) are included in Appendix D: Adoption
Resolution.
City of Azusa 7-1
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Chapter 7 Plan Implementation and Maintenance
Requirement §201.6(c)(4): [The plan maintenance process shall include a] section describing the
method and schedule of monitoring, evaluating, and updating the mitigation plan within a five -year
cycle.
Implementation and maintenance of this LHMP is critical to the overall success of hazard mitigation
planning. This is Planning Step 10 of the 10-step planning process. This chapter provides an overview of
the overall strategy for LHMP implementation and maintenance and outlines the method and schedule for
monitoring, updating, and evaluating the plan. The chapter also discusses incorporating the LHMP into
existing planning mechanisms and how to address continued public involvement.
7.1 Implementation
Once adopted, the plan faces the truest test of its worth: implementation. While this plan contains many
worthwhile actions, the City will need to decide which action(s) to undertake first. Two factors will help
with making that decision: the priority assigned the actions in the planning process and funding availability.
Low or no-cost actions most easily demonstrate progress toward successful plan implementation.
An important implementation mechanism that is highly effective and low-cost is incorporation of the hazard
mitigation plan recommendations and their underlying principles into other plans and mechanisms, such as
general plans, Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs), stormwater plans, Emergency Operations
Plans (EOPS), evacuation plans, and other hazard and emergency management planning efforts for Azusa.
The City already implements policies and programs to reduce losses to life and property from hazards. This
plan builds upon the momentum developed through previous and related planning efforts a nd mitigation
programs and recommends implementing actions, where possible, through these other program
mechanisms.
Mitigation is most successful when it is incorporated into the day-to-day functions and priorities of
government and development. Implementation can be accomplished by adhering to the schedules identified
for each action and through constant, pervasive, and energetic efforts to network and highlight the multi -
objective, win-win benefits to each program, the City, the greater community and its stakeholders. This
effort is achieved through the routine actions of monitoring agendas, attending meetings, and promoting a
safe, sustainable community. Additional mitigation strategies could include consistent and ongoing
enforcement of existing policies and vigilant review of programs for coordination and multi -objective
opportunities.
Simultaneous to these efforts, it is important to maintain a constant monitoring of funding opportunities
that can be leveraged to implement some of the more costly recommended actions. This will include
creating and maintaining a bank of ideas on how to meet local match or participation requirements. When
funding does become available, the City will be in a position to capitalize on the opportunity. Funding
opportunities to be monitored include special pre- and post-disaster funds, state and federal programs and
City of Azusa 7-2
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
earmarked funds, benefit assessments, and other grant programs, including those that can serve or support
multi-objective applications.
Responsibility for Implementation of Goals and Activities
The elected officials and staff appointed to head each department within the City are charged with
implementation of various activities in the plan. During the annual reviews as described later in this section,
an assessment of progress on each of the goals and activities in the plan should be determined and noted.
At that time, recommendations were made to modify timeframes for completion of activities, funding
resources, and responsible entities. On an annual basis, the priority standing of various activities may also
be changed. Some activities that are found not to be doable may be deleted from the plan entirely and
activities addressing problems unforeseen during plan development may be added.
7.1.1. Role of Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee in Implementation
and Maintenance
With adoption of this plan, the City will be responsible for the plan implementation and maintenance. The
HMPC identified in Appendix A (or a similar committee) will reconvene each year to ensure mitigation
strategies are being implemented and the City continues to maintain compliance with the NFIP. As such,
the City will continue its relationship with each other, and with the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee
(HMPC) and:
➢ Act as a forum for hazard mitigation issues;
➢ Disseminate hazard mitigation ideas and activities to all participants;
➢ Pursue the implementation of high-priority, low/no-cost recommended actions;
➢ Ensure hazard mitigation remains a consideration for community decision makers;
➢ Maintain a vigilant monitoring of multi-objective cost-share opportunities to help the community
implement the plan’s recommended actions for which no current funding exists;
➢ Monitor and assist in implementation and update of this plan;
➢ Report on plan progress and recommended changes to the City Council; and
➢ Inform and solicit input from the public.
The primary duty of the City is to see the plan successfully carried out and to report to their community
governing boards and the public on the status of plan implementation and mitigation opportunities. Other
duties include reviewing and promoting mitigation proposals, considering stakeholder concerns about
hazard mitigation, passing concerns on to appropriate entities, and posting relevant information on the City
website (and others as appropriate).
7.2 Maintenance
Plan maintenance implies an ongoing effort to monitor and evaluate LHMP implementation and to update
the plan as progress, roadblocks, or changing circumstances are recognized.
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7.2.1. Maintenance Schedule
The City of Azusa Planning Department is responsible for initiating plan reviews and consulting with the
other City departments and LHMP stakeholders. In order to monitor progress and update the mitigation
strategies identified in the action plan, Azusa Planning and the individual department representatives will
revisit this plan annually and following a hazard event. The HMPC will meet annually to review progress
on plan implementation and each implementing department will provide annual status reports. The HMPC
will also submit a five-year written update to the State and FEMA Region IX, unless disaster or other
circumstances (e.g., changing regulations) require a change to this schedule. With this plan anticipated to
be fully approved and adopted in 2019, the next plan update for the City of Azusa will occur in 2024.
7.2.2. Maintenance Evaluation Process
Evaluation of progress can be achieved by monitoring changes in vulnerabilities identified in the plan.
Changes in vulnerability can be identified by noting:
➢ Decreased vulnerability as a result of implementing recommended actions;
➢ Increased vulnerability as a result of failed or ineffective mitigation actions; and/or
➢ Increased vulnerability as a result of new development (and/or annexation).
➢ Increased vulnerability resulting from unforeseen or new circumstances.
Updates to this plan will:
➢ Consider changes in vulnerability due to action implementation;
➢ Document success stories where mitigation efforts have proven effective;
➢ Document areas where mitigation actions were not effective;
➢ Document any new hazards that may arise or were previously overlooked;
➢ Incorporate new data or studies on hazards and risks;
➢ Incorporate new capabilities or changes in capabilities;
➢ Incorporate growth and development-related changes to infrastructure inventories; and
➢ Incorporate new action recommendations or changes in action prioritization.
Changes will be made to the plan to accommodate for actions that have failed or are not considered feasible
after a review of their consistency with established criteria, time frame, community priorities, and/or
funding resources. All mitigation actions will be reviewed as well during the monitoring and update of this
plan to determine feasibility of future implementation. Updating of the plan will be by written changes and
submissions, as the HMPC deems appropriate and necessary. In keeping with the five-year update process,
the HMPC will convene public meetings to solicit public input on the plan and its routine maintenance and
the final product will be adopted by the Azusa City Council.
Annual Plan Review Process
For the LHMP review process, the Azusa Planning will be responsible for facilitating, coordinating, and
scheduling reviews and maintenance of the plan. The review of the LHMP will normally occur on an
annual basis each year and will be conducted by the HMPC as follows:
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January 2019
➢ Azusa Planning will place an advertisement in the local newspaper advising the public of the date, time,
and place for each annual review of the plan and will be responsible for leading the meeting to review
the plan.
➢ Notices will be mailed to the members of the HMPC, federal, state, and local agencies, non-profit
groups, local planning agencies, representatives of business interests, neighboring communities, and
others advising them of the date, time, and place for the review.
➢ City/County/District officials will be noticed by email and telephone or personal visit and urged to
participate.
➢ Members of the City’s Planning Commission and other appointed commissions and groups will also
be noticed by email and either by telephone or personal visit.
➢ Prior to the review, department heads and others tasked with implementation of the various activities
will be queried concerning progress on each activity in their area of responsibility and asked to present
a report at the review meeting.
➢ The local news media will be contacted and a copy of the current plan will be available for public
comment at the City of Azusa.
➢ After the review meeting, minutes of the meeting and an annual report will be prepared by the HMPC
and forwarded to the news media (public) and other interested stakeholders. The report will also be
presented to the Azusa City Council for review, and a request will be made that the Council take action
to recognize and adopt any changes resulting from the review.
Criteria for Annual Reviews
The criteria recommended in 44 CFR 201 and 206 will be utilized in reviewing and updating the plan. More
specifically, the annual reviews will include the following information:
➢ Community growth or change in the past year
➢ The number of substantially damaged or substantially improved structures by flood zone
➢ The renovations to public infrastructure including water, sewer, drainage, roads, bridges, gas lines, and
buildings
➢ Natural hazard occurrences that required activation of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and
whether or not the event resulted in a presidential disaster declaration.
➢ Natural hazard occurrences that were not of a magnitude to warrant activation of the EOC or a federal
disaster declaration but were severe enough to cause damage in the community or closure of businesses,
schools, or public services
➢ The dates of hazard events descriptions
➢ Documented damages due to the event
➢ Closures of places of employment or schools and the number of days closed
➢ Road or bridge closures due to the hazard and the length of time closed
➢ Assessment of the number of private and public buildings damaged and whether the damage was minor,
substantial, major, or if buildings were destroyed. The assessment will include residences, mobile
homes, commercial structures, industrial structures, and public buildings, such as schools and public
safety buildings
➢ Review of any changes in federal, state, and local policies to determine the impact of these policies on
the community and how and if the policy changes can or should be incorporated into the LHMP.
Review of the status of implementation of projects (mitigation strategies) including projects completed
will be noted. Projects behind schedule will include a reason for delay of implementation.
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January 2019
7.2.3. Incorporation into Existing Planning Mechanisms
Another important implementation mechanism that is highly effective and low-cost is incorporation of the
LHMP recommendations and their underlying principles into other City plans and mechanisms. Where
possible, plan participants will use existing plans and/or programs to implement hazard mitigation actions.
As previously stated in Section 7.1 of this plan, mitigation is most successful when it is incorporated into
the day-to-day functions and priorities of government and development. The point is re -emphasized here.
As described in this plan’s capability assessment, the City already implements policies and programs to
reduce losses to life and property from hazards. This plan builds upon the momentum developed through
previous and related planning efforts and mitigation programs and recommends implementing actions,
where possible, through these other program mechanisms. These existing mechanisms include:
➢ City general plans (especially the Safety Element)
➢ City Emergency Operations Plans and other emergency management efforts
➢ City ordinances
➢ Flood/stormwater management/master plans
➢ Community Wildfire Protection Plans
➢ Capital improvement plans and budgets
➢ Climate Adaptation and other Climate plans
➢ Other plans and policies outlined in the capability assessments
➢ Other plans, regulations, and practices with a mitigation focus
HMPC members involved in these other planning mechanisms will be responsible for integrating the
findings and recommendations of this plan with these other plans, programs, etc, as appropriate. As
described in Section 7.1 Implementation, incorporation into existing planning mechanisms will be done
through the routine actions of:
➢ monitoring other planning/program agendas;
➢ attending other planning/program meetings;
➢ participating in other planning processes; and
➢ monitoring community budget meetings for other community program opportunities.
The successful implementation of this mitigation strategy will require constant and vigilant review of
existing plans and programs for coordination and multi-objective opportunities that promote a safe,
sustainable community.
Examples of incorporation of the LHMP into existing planning mechanisms include:
1. As recommended by Assembly Bill 2140, the City should adopt (by reference or incorporation) this
LHMP into the Safety Element of their General Plan. Evidence of such adoption (by formal, certified
resolution) shall be provided to CAL OES and FEMA.
2. Integration of wildfire actions identified in this mitigation strategy and those established in existing and
in process CWPPs and other City fire mitigation plans and programs. Key people responsible for
mitigation of the wildfire hazard in the City participated on the HMPC. City wildfire projects were
identified and integrated into the this LHMP. Actual implementation of these projects will likely occur
through existing fire department plans and programs and as part of any new or updated City-specific
CWPPs to be developed.
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3. Integration of this LHMP Update into the City’s Climate Adaptation Plan (CAP). It is anticipated that
this LHMP will being used to inform the development of the CAP and conversely risk and vulnerability
data and climate adaptation strategies developed for the CAP will be integrated into future updates of
this LHMP for the City.
4. Use of the LHMP risk assessment and other information to update the hazard analysis in future updates
of the City’s Emergency Operations Plans and other emergency planning efforts for the City.
Efforts should continuously be made to monitor the progress of mitigation actions implemented through
these other planning mechanisms and, where appropriate, their priority actions should be incorporated into
future updates of this LHMP.
7.2.4. Continued Public Involvement
Continued public involvement is imperative to the overall success of the plan’s implementation. The update
process provides an opportunity to solicit participation from new and existing stakeholders and to publicize
success stores from the plan implementation and seek additional public comment. The plan maintenance
and update process will include continued public and stakeholder involvement and input through attendance
at designated committee meetings, web postings, press releases to local media, and through public meetings.
Public Involvement Process for Annual Reviews
The public will be noticed by placing an advertisement in local media and social media specifying the date
and time for the review and inviting public participation. The HMPC, local, state, and regional agencies
will also be notified and invited to attend and participate.
Public Involvement for Five-year Update
When the HMPC reconvenes for the update, they will coordinate with all stakeholders par ticipating in the
planning process—including those that joined the committee since the planning process began—to update
and revise the plan. In reconvening, the HMPC will be responsible for coordinating the activities necessary
to involve the greater public. The HMPC will develop a plan for public involvement and will be responsible
for disseminating information through a variety of media channels detailing the plan update process. As
part of this effort, public meetings will be held and public comments will be solicited on the LHMP Update
draft.
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January 2019
Appendix A Planning Process
A.1 Lists of HMPC Invites/Stakeholders
Table A-1 Initial LHMP Invite List
Name Agency Title Email
Kurt Christiansen City of Azusa Econ/Comm Dir. kchristiansen@ci.azusa.ca.us
Edson Ibanez City of Azusa Planning Division eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us
Troy Butzlaff City of Azusa City Manager tbutzlaff@ci.azusa.ca.us
Louie L. City of Azusa Management Analy. llascasella@ci.azusa.ca.us
Ann Graf City of Azusa Library - Director agraf@ci.azusa.ca.us
Daniel Bobdailla City of Azusa City Engineer - PW Dir. dbobadilla@ci.azusa.ca.us
Philip Flores City of Azusa Engineering/PW pflores@ci.azusa.ca.us
Joe Jacobs City of Azusa jjacbos@ci.azusa.ca.us
Federico Langit City of Azusa Light & Water Asst. Dir. flangit@ci.azusa.ca.us
Carlos Salis City of Azusa Light & Water csalis@ci.azusa.ca.us
Jaime Prado City of Azusa GIS Analyst jprado@ci.azusa.ca.us
John Momot City of Azusa EOC - Police Officer jmomot@ci.azusa.ca.us
Sam Flemings City of Azusa Police Sergeant sflemings@ci.azusa.ca.us
Hien Vuong City of Azusa Electric Engineer hvuong@ci.azusa.ca.us
Melissa Barboas City of Azusa Water Engineer mbarbosa@ci.azusa.ca.us
Jeffery Cornejo City of Azusa City Clerk/City Historian jcornejo@ci.azusa.ca.us
Robb Keyes City of Azusa Building Official Rkeyes@ci.azusa.ca.us
Rick McMinn City of Azusa Code Enforcement rmcminn@ci.azusa.ca.us
Mayra Salas City of Azusa Cdintern1@ci.azusa.ca.us
Rob Landeros City of Azusa Police Department rlanderos@ci.azusa.ca.us
Manuel Munoz City of Azusa Planning Division mmunoz@Ci.azusa.ca.us
Ruben Munoz
and Chief
LA County Fire Chief/ Plan Checker ruben.j.munoz@fire.lacounty.gov
Daniel Yniguez LA County Fire Haz Mat Daniel.yniquez@fire.lacounty.gov
Gary Kossky Azusa Pacific
Univer.
Sergeant - Campus Safety. gkossky@apu.edu
Collette Morse Consultant Planner cmorseplan@dslextreme.com
Louie Lacasella City of Azusa CM Office llacasella@ci.azusa.ca.us
Scarlett Santas City of Azusa CM Office ssantas@ci.azusa.ca.us
Edward Calzanes City of Azusa Azusa Light and Water ecalzanes@ci.azusa.ca.us
City of Azusa A-2
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January 2019
Name Agency Title Email
Robert Danielson City of Azusa Azusa Planning Commission rdanielson@earthlink.net
Eduardo Escabor Flood Control
District
City Floodplain Manager edescoba@dpw.lacounty.gov
Robert McCord FEMA IX Region
- Hazard M.
HMA Branch Chief robert.mccord@fema.dhs.gov
Steven Larson Cal OES Flood Mitigation Div. Steven.Larson@CalOES.ca.gov
Chad Moxley Cal Fire Fire Capatin - Land Use chad.moxley@fire.ca.gov
Raymond
Martinez
Cal Fire Fire Captain - Land Use raymond.martinez@fire.ca.gov
Heather
McCulley
Cal Fire Heather.mcculley@fire.ca.gov
Joseph
Hovemeyer
Azusa Pacific
University
Campus Safety jhovemeyer@apu.edu
Gary Kossky Azusa Pacific
University
Campus Safety gkossky@apu.edu
Eric Boldt National Weather
Service
NOAA/NWS eric.boldt@noaa.gov
Mark Jackson National Weather
Service
mark.jackson@noaa.gov
Juan Carlos
Lopez
Red Cross Outreach.LosAngeles.CA@redcross.org juancarlos.lopez@redcross.org
Philip Dixon USDA-NRCS Philip,dixon@ca.usda.gov
Tim Dunfee US Forest Sevice Acting District Ranger tchi412@gmail.com
Hu Yi LA County Public
Works
hyi@dpw.lacounty.gov
Mike Miranda LA County Public Works mmiranda@dpw.lacounty.gov
Siya Araumi LA County Public Works sarami@dpw.lacounty.gov
Alicia Mejia LA County Fire Department Alicia.mejia@fire.lacounty.gov
Ron Durbin LA County Fire Department Ron.durbin@fire.lacounty.gov
– City of Duarte duarte91010@accessduarte.com
Jeff Kugel City of Glendora Dir. Of Planning jkugel@cityofglendora.org
– City of Covina planning@covinaca.gov
Marilyn Simpson City of Irwindale Principal Planner msimpson@irwindaleca.gov
Wallace
Zimmerman
Southern
California Edison
wally.zimmerman@sce.com
Diana Manzano LA - DMAC Area D aread_dmac@earthlink.net
J. Lopez LA Fire Assistant Chief - Forestry Div. j.lopez@fire.lacounty.gov
Teresa Roblero So Cal GAS Planning Associate ssifuentes@semprautilities.com
Rodney Porter Southern
California Edison
Rodney.porter@sce.com
City of Azusa A-3
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Name Agency Title Email
Jim Bollier Verizon jim.boiler@verizon.com
Dave Johnson SAN GABRIEL
VALLEY
MUNICIPAL
WATER
DISTRICT
davejohnson@onemain.com
Chief Executive
Office
OEM
Alan Lin Cal Trans alan.lin@dot.ca.gov
Ali Showkatian Foothill Transit Safety Compliance Mana. ashowkatian@foothilltransit.org
Emergency
Management.
LA EMD emd.emdweb@lacity.org
Barbara
Dickerson
drbarb12@gmail.com
Steven Castro City of Azusa Chamber steve@azusachamber.org
Azusa Unified
School District
City of Azusa LKaminski@azusa.org
Table A-2 HMPC Participant List
Department Title Name Email
Kurt Christiansen City of Azusa Econ/Comm Dir. kchristiansen@ci.azusa.ca.us
Edson Ibanez City of Azusa Planning Division eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us
Louie L. City of Azusa Management Analy. llascasella@ci.azusa.ca.us
Ann Graf City of Azusa Library - Director agraf@ci.azusa.ca.us
Daniel Bobdailla City of Azusa City Engineer - PW Dir. dbobadilla@ci.azusa.ca.us
Philip Flores City of Azusa Engineering/PW pflores@ci.azusa.ca.us
Carlos Salis City of Azusa Light & Water csalis@ci.azusa.ca.us
Jaime Prado City of Azusa GIS Analyst jprado@ci.azusa.ca.us
John Momot City of Azusa EOC - Police Officer jmomot@ci.azusa.ca.us
Melissa Barboas City of Azusa Water Engineer mbarbosa@ci.azusa.ca.us
Robb Keyes City of Azusa Building Official Rkeyes@ci.azusa.ca.us
Rick McMinn City of Azusa Code Enforcement rmcminn@ci.azusa.ca.us
Mayra Salas City of Azusa Cdintern1@ci.azusa.ca.us
Rob Landeros City of Azusa Police Department rlanderos@ci.azusa.ca.us
Manuel Munoz City of Azusa Planning Division mmunoz@Ci.azusa.ca.us
Daniel Yniguez LA County Fire Haz Mat Daniel.yniquez@fire.lacounty.gov
Gary Kossky Azusa Pacific
Univer.
Sergeant - Campus Safety. gkossky@apu.edu
Collette Morse Consultant Planner cmorseplan@dslextreme.com
City of Azusa A-4
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Department Title Name Email
Louie Lacasella City of Azusa CM Office llacasella@ci.azusa.ca.us
Scarlett Santas City of Azusa CM Office ssantas@ci.azusa.ca.us
Edward Calzanes City of Azusa Azusa Light and Water ecalzanes@ci.azusa.ca.us
Robert Danielson City of Azusa Azusa Planning Commission rdanielson@earthlink.net
Steven Larson Cal OES Flood Mitigation Div. Steven.Larson@CalOES.ca.gov
Chad Moxley Cal Fire Fire Capatin - Land Use chad.moxley@fire.ca.gov
Heather McCulley Cal Fire Heather.mcculley@fire.ca.gov
Joseph
Hovemeyer
Azusa Pacific
University
Campus Safety jhovemeyer@apu.edu
Gary Kossky Azusa Pacific
University
Campus Safety gkossky@apu.edu
Eric Boldt National
Weather Service
NOAA/NWS eric.boldt@noaa.gov
Philip Dixon USDA-NRCS Philip,dixon@ca.usda.gov
Mike Miranda LA County Public Works mmiranda@dpw.lacounty.gov
Siya Araumi LA County Public Works sarami@dpw.lacounty.gov
Alicia Mejia LA County Fire Department Alicia.mejia@fire.lacounty.gov
Ron Durbin LA County Fire Department Ron.durbin@fire.lacounty.gov
Diana Manzano LA - DMAC Area D aread_dmac@earthlink.net
J. Lopez LA Fire Assistant Chief - Forestry Div. j.lopez@fire.lacounty.gov
City of Azusa A-5
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.2 Website for Hazard Mitigation Plan
City of Azusa A-6
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.3 Kickoff Meeting (HMPC Meeting #1)
Note: The initial kickoff meeting invitation was sent to both City staff (see A.3.1 below) and to outside
stakeholders. The outside stakeholder email invitation was not able to be found. Examples of those emails
that were sent can be found in Section A.3.2 below.
A.3.1. Kickoff Meeting Invite to Stakeholders
From: Edson Ibanez [mailto:eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us]
Sent: Tuesday, March 07, 2017 4:46 PM
To: Ann Graf <agraf@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Daniel Bobadilla <dbobadilla@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Federico Langit
<flangit@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Hien Vuong <hvuong@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Jaime Prado <jprado@ci.azusa.ca.us>;
Melissa Barbosa <mbarbosa@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Robb Keyes <rkeyes@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Sam Fleming
<SFLEMING@ci.azusa.ca.us>; ruben.muoz@fire.lacounty.gov
Cc: John Momot <JMOMOT@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Kurt Christiansen <kchristiansen@ci.azusa.c a.us>; Troy
Butzlaff <tbutzlaff@ci.azusa.ca.us>
Subject: Hazard Mitigation Plan - Kick Off Meeting 03/29/2017
Dear Staff,
The City of Azusa is kicking off efforts to develop a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) for
the City. The purpose of the LHMP process is to help reduce the impacts of natural hazards to
the citizens, property, and critical infrastructure in the City. The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
(DMA 2000) requires that local governments have a FEMA-approved LHMP in place in order to
be eligible for certain pre- and post-disaster mitigation funding utilized to protect communities
from future disaster-related losses. You are receiving this notice because we would like to invite
you to take part in the plan development process as a member of the Hazard Mitigation Planning
Committee (HMPC).
City, county, and other agency participation and coordination is a requirement of an approved
plan, as is the inclusion of any hazard data, information, and mitigation projects your department
or agency may recommend for inclusion in the plan. Thus, your participation in this process is
important and encouraged. Your input will be critical to the success of this project. Participation
includes:
• Attending and participating in the HMPC meetings (5 anticipated over the next 6 months)
• Providing available data/information requested of the HMPC
• Reviewing and providing comments on the plan drafts
City of Azusa, Community Development Department, is taking the lead on coordinating this
planning project. A project kickoff meeting will be held at the following loc ation and time:
March 29, 2017 , 1 pm-4 pm, Police Department, Emergency Operation Center
(EOC)
725 N. Alameda Avenue. Azusa, California, 91702
*I need one representative from each department
The kickoff meeting will explain the process and how you can be involved. A public stakeholder
meeting will also be held the evening of the same day of the kickoff meeting as part of the City’s
regular Planning Commission Hearing. Details on the public meeting will be forthcoming.
Please RSVP (by responding to the email) and plan on attending or delegating attendance to this
important meeting.
For further information, contact Edson Ibañez at eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us or 626.812.5289
City of Azusa A-7
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.3.2. Kickoff Meeting Invite to Outside Stakeholder Examples
From: Edson Ibanez <eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.u s>
Sent: Tuesday, March 14, 2017 4:47 PM
To: gkossky@apu.edu
Subject: Azusa - Kick Off Meeting
Dear Gary Kossky,
The City of Azusa is kicking off efforts to develop a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) for
the City. The purpose of the LHMP process is to help reduce the impacts of natural hazards to
the citizens, property, and critical infrastructure in the City. The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
(DMA 2000) requires that local governments have a FEMA-approved LHMP in place in order to
be eligible for certain pre- and post-disaster mitigation funding utilized to protect communities
from future disaster-related losses. You are receiving this notice because we would like to invite
you to take part in the plan development process as a member of the Hazard Mitigation Planning
Committee (HMPC).
City, county, and other agency participation and coordination is a requirement of an approved
plan, as is the inclusion of any hazard data, information, and mitigation projects your department
or agency may recommend for inclusion in the plan. Thus, your participation in this process is
important and encouraged. Your input will be critical to the success of this project. Participation
includes:
• Attending and participating in the HMPC meetings (5 anticipated over the next 6 months)
• Providing available data/information requested of the HMPC
• Reviewing and providing comments on the plan drafts
City of Azusa, Community Development Department, is taking the lead on coordinating this
planning project. A project kickoff meeting will be held at the following location and time:
March 29, 2017 , 1 pm-4 pm, Police Department, Emergency Operation Center (EOC) or
Memorial Park (Contact Edson for details the week of the event)
725 N. Alameda Avenue. Azusa, California, 91702
*I need one representative from each department
The kickoff meeting will explain the process and how you can be involved. A public stakeholder
meeting will also be held the evening of the same day of the kickoff meeting as part of the City’s
regular Planning Commission Hearing. Details on the public meeting will be forthcoming.
Please RSVP (by responding to the email) and plan on attending or delegating attendance to this
important meeting.
For further information, contact Edson Ibañez at eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us or 626.812.5289.
City of Azusa A-8
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
From: Edson Ibanez <eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us>
Sent: Thursday, March 9, 2017 4:55 PM
To: ruben.j.munoz@fire.lacounty.gov
Subject: Re: Hazard Mitigation Plan - Kick Off Meeting 03/29/2017
Dear Staff,
The City of Azusa is kicking off efforts to develop a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) for
the City. The purpose of the LHMP process is to help reduce the impacts of natural hazards to
the citizens, property, and critical infrastructure in the City. The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
(DMA 2000) requires that local governments have a FEMA-approved LHMP in place in order to
be eligible for certain pre- and post-disaster mitigation funding utilized to protect communities
from future disaster-related losses. You are receiving this notice because we would like to invite
you to take part in the plan development process as a member of the Hazard Mitigation Planning
Committee (HMPC).
City, county, and other agency participation and coordination is a requirement of an approved
plan, as is the inclusion of any hazard data, information, and mitigation projects your department
or agency may recommend for inclusion in the plan. Thus, your participation in this process is
important and encouraged. Your input will be critical to the success of this project. Participation
includes:
• Attending and participating in the HMPC meetings (5 anticipated over the next 6 months)
• Providing available data/information requested of the HMPC
• Reviewing and providing comments on the plan drafts
City of Azusa, Community Development Department, is taking the lead on coordinating this
planning project. A project kickoff meeting will be held at the following location and time:
March 29, 2017 , 1 pm-4 pm, Police Department, Emergency Operation Center (EOC)
725 N. Alameda Avenue. Azusa, California, 91702
*I need one representative from each department
The kickoff meeting will explain the process and how you can be involved. A public stakeholder
meeting will also be held the evening of the same d ay of the kickoff meeting as part of the City’s
regular Planning Commission Hearing. Details on the public meeting will be forthcoming.
Please RSVP (by responding to the email) and plan on attending or delegating attendance to this
important meeting.
For further information, contact Edson Ibañez at eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us or 626.812.5289.
City of Azusa A-9
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
>>> Eric Boldt - NOAA Federal <eric.boldt@noaa.gov> 3/24/2017 2:28 PM >>>
Hi Edson,
I received your email about the city of Azusa's LHMP kickoff meeting on March 29 and future meetings
over the next six months. Unfortunately I will not be able to attend in person, but is it possible for me to
participate remotely by phone or at least help shape any materials related to severe weather hazards
during this process?
I am currently involved with the city of Los Angeles in their LHMP update, but I don't think I can add
another LHMP to my current schedule. Like I said though I would be glad to help out with reviews of any
weather hazards in the Azusa plan.
Please let me know if I can help out. Thank you.
Eric
Eric Boldt
Warning Coordination Meteorologist
National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard
805-223-1159 cell
805-988-6623 office
www.weather.gov/losangeles
City of Azusa A-10
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
>>> Eduardo Escobar <EDESCOBA@dpw.lacounty.gov> 3/23/2017 5:15 PM >>>
Hi Edson,
The County’s Chief Executive Office, Office of Emergency Management (OEM) oversaw the
preparation of the County’s All -Hazard Mitigation Plan (AHMP) in 2014. They would be the
appropriate office to receive your invitation. You may contact them at (323) 980-2260.
Please find below the link to the County’s AHMP :
http://lacoa.org/PDF/hazmitgplan.pdf
I also forwarded your email to the Department of Public Works Disaster Services Group to keep
them informed.
Please let me know if you have any questions. I will be out of the office tomorrow and Monday
(most Dept. of Public Works offices close on Fridays).
Eduardo Escobar, P.E.
Civil Engineer
Los Angeles County Public Works
Office: (626) 458-4355
From: Edson Ibanez [mailto:eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us]
Sent: Wednesday, March 22, 2017 5:24 PM
Subject: City of Azusa LHMP: Kickoff meetin g
City of Azusa LHMP: Kickoff meeting (Please pass this along to appropriate
staff)
Greetings:
The City of Azusa is kicking off efforts to develop a Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) for the City. The
purpose of the LHMP process is to help reduce the impacts of natural hazards to the citize ns, property,
and critical infrastructure in the City. The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000) requires that local
governments have a FEMA-approved LHMP in place in order to be eligible for certain pre - and post-
disaster mitigation funding utilized to protect communities from future disaster -related losses. You are
receiving this notice because we would like to invite you to take part in the plan development process as
a member of the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC).
City, county, and other agency participation and coordination is a requirement of an approved plan, as is
the inclusion of any hazard data, information, and mitigation projects your department or agency may
recommend for inclusion in the plan. Thus, your participation in this process is important and encouraged.
Your input will be critical to the success of this project. Participation includes :
• Attending and participating in the HMPC meetings (5 anticipated over the next 6 months )
• Providing available data/information requested of the HMPC
• Reviewing and providing comments on the plan draft s
City of Azusa, Community Development Department, is taking the lead on coordinating this planning
project. A project kickoff meeting will be held at the following location and time:
March 29, 2017, 1pm-4pm, North Recreation Center – Memorial Park,
320 N. Orange Place. Azusa, California, 9170 2
The kickoff meeting will explain the process and how you can be involved. A public stakeholder meeting
will also be held the evening of the same day of the kickoff meeting as part of the City’s regular Planning
Commission Hearing. Details on the public mee ting will be forthcoming .
Please RSVP and plan on attending or delegating attendance to this important meeting.
For further information, contact Edson Ibañez at eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us or 626.812.5289.
City of Azusa A-11
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.3.3. Kickoff Meeting Agenda
CITY OF AZUSA
LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN (LHMP)
HMPC MEETING #1
MARCH 29, 2017
1. Introductions
2. Hazard Mitigation & the Disaster Mitigation Act Planning Requirements
3. The Role of the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC)
4. Planning for Public Input
5. Coordinating with other Agencies
6. Hazard Identification
7. Schedule
8. Data Needs
9. Questions and Answers
City of Azusa A-12
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.3.4. Kickoff Meeting Sign-in Sheets
City of Azusa A-13
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
City of Azusa A-14
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.4 Risk Assessment Meetings (HMPC Meeting #2)
A.4.1. Emailed Invites to Risk Assessment Meetings
From: Edson Ibanez [mailto:eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us]
Sent: Tuesday, May 16, 2017 12:56 PM
To: duarte91010@accessduarte.com; cedillo12@aol.com; Jorge V. Rosales <cepillo12@aol.com>;
gkossky@apu.edu; LKaminski@azusa.org; steve@azusachamber.org; Steven@CalOES Larson
<Steven.Larson@CalOES.ca.gov>; Ann Graf <agraf@ci.azusa.ca.us >; Daniel Bobadilla
<dbobadilla@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Edward Cazares <ecazares@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Federico Langit
<flangit@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Hien Vuong <hvuong@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Jeffrey Cornejo
<jcornejo@ci.azusa.ca.us >; jjacbos@ci.azusa.ca.us; Jaime Prado <jprado@ci.azusa.ca.us>;
llascasella@ci.azusa.ca.us; Melissa Barbosa <mbarbosa@ci.azusa.ca.us >; Margaret Delano
<mdelano@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Robb Keyes <rkeyes@ci.azusa.ca.us>; sflemings@ci.azusa.ca.us; Troy
Butzlaff <tbutzlaff@ci.azusa.ca.us>; jkugel@cityofglendora.org; planning@covinaca.gov; Alan S@DOT
Lin <alan.lin@dot.ca.gov>; edescoba@dpw.lacounty.gov ; eescoba@dpw.lacounty.gov;
hyi@dpw.lacounty.gov ; saravmi@dpw.lacounty.gov ; Diana Manzano <aread_dmac@earthlink.net>;
robert.mccord@fema.dhs.gov; chad.moxley@fire.ca.gov ; heather.mcculley@fire.ca.gov;
raymond.martinez@fire.ca.gov ; alicia.mejia@fire.lacounty.gov; j.lopez@fire.lacounty.gov;
ruben.j.munoz@fire.lacounty.gov ; ashowkatian@foothilltransit.org; drbarb12@gmail.com;
mikeeng321@gmail.com; tchi412@gmail.com; msimpson@irwindaleca.gov; emd.emdweb@lacity.org;
eric.boldt@noaa.gov; mark.jackson@noaa.gov; w-lox.webmaster@noaa.gov ;
davejohnson@onemain.com; juancarlos.lopez@redcross.org; Rodney.porter@sce.com;
wally.zimmerman@sce.com; ssifuentes@semprautilities.com ; publicaffairs.spl@usace.army.mil ;
jim.boiler@verizon.com
Cc: John Momot <JMOMOT@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Kurt Christiansen <kchristiansen@ci.azusa.ca.us >;
cmorseplan @dslextreme.com <cmorseplan@dslextreme.com>; Jeanine Foster
<jeanine.foster@fostermorrison.com>
Subject: Re: City of Azusa Lo cal Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) - Risk Assessment Meeting Invit
City of Azusa A-15
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Dear All,
You are invited to the second planning team meeting for the development of the City of Azusa’s Local
Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). In March of 2017 the City of Azusa kicked -off its hazard mitigation
planning effort with consultants Foster Morrison. Over the past two months, Foster Morrison have been
working to collect data to inform Chapter 4 of our LHMP, the Risk Assessment.
During this Risk Assessment meeting (agenda attached), we will be reviewing the risk assessment data
developed to date and will be looking for your feedback in refining and adding to this in -process Risk
Assessment Chapter.
The meeting will be held on Wednesday June, 14th at the Azusa Police Department - EOC (725 N
Alameda Ave, Azusa, CA 91702)
TIME: 1 pm - 4 pm (http://www.ci.azusa.ca.us/1499/2017 -Hazard -Mitigation -Plan)
Please RSVP and plan on attending or delegating attendance to this important meeting.
City and agency participation and coordination is a requirement of an approved plan, as is the inclusion of
any hazard data, information, and mitigation projects your department or agency may want to see
included in the plan. Thus, your participation in this process is important and encour aged. Your input will
be critical to the success of this project.
Thank You,
Mark your calendars - August 15 & 16: Mitigation Strategy Meetings/Public meeting (Planning
Commission) both days from 1 pm to 4 pm at the Azusa Police Department - EOC.
Sincer ely,
Edson Ibañez, Assistant Planner
Planning Division
City of Azusa
213 E. Foothill Blvd.
Azusa, CA 91702
Phone 626-812-5289
Fax 626-334-5464
eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us
City of Azusa A-16
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.4.2. Risk Assessment Meeting Agenda
City of Azusa
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) Update
Risk Assessment Meeting
June 14, 2017
1. Introductions
2. Status of the DMA Planning Process
3. Review (and discussions/input) of the Risk Assessment
4. Review of Data Needs
5. Questions
6. Next Steps
City of Azusa A-17
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.4.3. Risk Assessment Meeting Sign in Sheets
City of Azusa A-18
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.5 Mitigation Strategy Meetings (HMPC Meeting #3)
A.5.1. Email Invites to Mitigation Strategy Meetings
From: Edson Ibanez [mailto:eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us ]
Sent: Thursday, August 03, 2017 5:50 PM
To: duarte91010@accessduarte.com; cedillo12@aol.com; cepillo12@aol.com; JSJL24@aol.com;
gkossky@apu.edu; LKaminski@azusa.org; steve@azusachamber.org; Steven.Larson@CalOES.ca.gov;
bugsuzanne@charter.net; agraf@ci.azusa.ca.us; dbobadilla@ci.azusa.ca.us ; ecazares@ci.azusa.ca.us;
flangit@ci.azusa.ca.us; hvuong@ci.azusa.ca.us; jcornejo@ci.azusa.ca.us; jjacbos@ci.azusa.ca.us;
jprado@ci.azusa.ca.us; llascasella@ci.azusa.ca.us; mbarbosa@ci.azusa.ca.us; Manuel Munoz
<mmunoz@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Rkeyes@ci.azusa.ca.us; sflemings@ci.azusa.ca.us; tbutzlaff@ci.azusa.ca.us;
jkugel@cityofglendora.org; planning@covinaca.gov; alan.lin@dot.ca.gov; edescoba@dpw.lacounty.gov ;
eescoba@dpw.lacounty.gov; hyi@dpw.lacounty.gov; saravmi@dpw.lacounty.gov;
aread_dmac@earthlink.net; rdonnelson@e arthlink.net; robert.mccord@fema.dhs.gov;
chad.moxley@fire.ca.gov ; heather.mcculley@fire.ca.gov; raymond.martinez@fire.ca.gov;
alicia.mejia@fire.lacounty.gov; j.lopez@fire.lacounty.gov; ruben.j.munoz@fire.lacounty.gov ;
ashowkatian@foothilltransit.org; cfallen3@gmail.com; drbarb12@gmail.com; jesseavilajr@gmail.com;
mikeeng321@gmail.com; tchi412@gmail.com; msimpson@irwindaleca.gov; emd.emdweb@lacity.org;
eric.boldt@noaa.gov ; mark.jackson@noaa.gov; w-lox.webmaster@noaa.gov ;
davejohnson@onemain.com; juancarlos.lopez@redcross.org; Rodney.porter@sce.com;
wally.zimmerman@sce.com; ssifuentes@semprautilities.com; publicaffairs.spl@usace.army.mil ;
jim.boiler@verizon.com
Cc: Angel Carrillo <acarrillo@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Edward Alvarez <ealvarez@ci.azusa.ca.us >; John Momot
<JMOMOT@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Joe Rocha <jrocha@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Kurt Christiansen
<kchristiansen@ci.azusa.ca.us >; Robert Gonzales <robertgonzales@ci.azusa.ca.us >; Uriel Macias
<umacias@ci.azusa.ca.us>; cmorseplan @dslextreme.com <cmorseplan@dslextreme.com>; Jeanine
Foster <jeanine.foster@fostermorrison.com >
Subject: Hazard Mitigation Meeting - City of Azusa
Hello Team,
I am providing some information in advance of our upcoming Mitigation Strategy Meetings scheduled for
two days: August 15 & 16, 2017 from 1-4. Azusa Police Departement - EOC - 725 N Alameda Ave,
Azusa, CA 91702
Mitigation Strategy Meetings. These are the two most important meetings for this plan! During these
meetings, the planning team will develop LHMP plan goals and objectives and will ide ntify and prioritize
mitigation actions (projects) for the plan. See attached Agenda.
It is important that everyone on the planning team attends and brings ideas for mitigation actions to be
included in the plan. We want to make sure all City departments a nd partnering agencies with projects to
be included are represented at these meetings. This includes staff from public works, building, facilities,
roads, planning, water, utilities, flood control, fire, and anyone else that would have mitigation actions t o
address identified hazards of concern.
Attached is a FEMA publication – Mitigation Ideas – that has mitigation ideas organized by hazard. Please
review as it has numerous ideas for mitigation projects. I am also attaching the Mitigation Action
Worksheet in case anyone wants to prepare these project worksheets in advance of the meetings.
Eventually, each mitigation action/project for the plan will be detailed in a Mitigation Action Worksheet.
City of Azusa A-19
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Chapter 4 – Risk Assessment. Reminder, see below link to access the first draft of the Chapter 4 Risk
Assessment document. Please make sure to provide your edits/input to this document and to review in
advance of these meetings. The mitigation actions will be developed to address the risk and vulnerabilities
detailed in this Hazard Risk Assessment.
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/1zxjnt4w0ktlr9k/AADG0qgivtzcGYkGE8zde7CEa?dl=0 .
Public Meeting. There will also be a public meeting the ev ening of August 15th Azusa Civic Auditorium-
213 E. Foothill Blvd, Azusa, CA 91702
The public meeting will provide an update on the status of the City’s Hazard Mitigation Planning Project,
provide an overview of the hazard risk assessment data, and introdu ce the upcoming mitigation strategy
phase of the project.
Please let me know if anyone has questions. Thanks very much.
Edson Ibañez, Assistant Planner
Planning Division
City of Azusa
213 E. Foothill Blvd.
Azusa, CA 91702
Phone 626-812-5289
Fax 626-334-5464
eibanez@ci.azusa.ca.us
City of Azusa A-20
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.5.2. Mitigation Strategy Meeting Agenda
City of Azusa
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) Update
Mitigation Strategy Meeting
August 15 & 16, 2017
HMPC Meeting #3:
1. Introductions
2. Status of the DMA Planning Process
3. Risk Assessment Update
4. Develop Updated Plan Goals and Objectives
5. Identify and discuss Mitigation Alternatives/Projects
HMPC Meeting #4:
1. Introductions
2. Identify and discuss Mitigation Alternatives/Projects
3. Review Mitigation Selection Criteria
4. Prioritize Mitigation Projects
5. Review of Schedule/Data Needs
City of Azusa A-21
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.5.3. Mitigation Strategy Meeting Sign in Sheets
City of Azusa A-22
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
City of Azusa A-23
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
City of Azusa A-24
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
City of Azusa A-25
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.6 Final Team Meeting (HMPC Meeting #4)
A.6.1. Final Team Meeting Invite
From: cmorseplan@dslextreme.com <cmorseplan@dslextreme.com>
Sent: Friday, November 16, 2018 10:50 AM
To: duarte91010@accessduarte.com; cedillo12@aol.com; cepillo12@aol.com; gkossky@apu.edu;
LKaminski@azusa.org; steve@azusachamber.org; Steven.Larson@CalOES.ca.gov ; agraf@ci.azusa.ca.us;
csolis@ci.azusa.ca.us ; dbobadilla@ci.azusa.ca.us ; ecazares@ci.azusa.ca.us; flangit@ci.azusa.ca.us ;
hvuong@ci.azusa.ca.us; jcornejo@ci.azusa.ca.us; jjacbos@ci.azusa.ca.us; jmacias@ci.azusa.ca.us;
jprado@ci.azusa.ca.us; llascasella@ci.azusa.ca.us; mbarbosa@ci.azusa.ca.us ; 'Manuel Munoz'
<mmunoz@ci.azusa.ca.us>; 'Phillip Flores' <pflores@ci.azusa.ca.us>; rkeyes@ci.azusa.ca.us; 'Rick
McMinn' <rmcminn@ci.azusa.ca.us>; sflemings@ci.azusa.ca.us; jkugel@cityofglendora.org;
planning@covinaca.gov ; alan.lin@dot.ca.gov; edescoba@dpw.lacounty.gov;
eescoba@dpw.lacounty.gov; hyi@dpw.lacounty.gov ; saravmi@dpw.lacounty.gov;
aread_dmac@earthlink.net; robert.mccord@fema.dhs.gov; chad.moxley@fire.ca.gov;
heather.mcculley@fire.ca.gov ; raymond.martinez@fire.ca.gov; alicia.mejia@fire.lacounty.gov;
j.lopez@fire.lacounty.gov ; ruben.j.munoz@fire.lacounty.gov; ashowkatian@foothilltransit.org;
drbarb12@gmail.com; mikeeng321@gmail.com; tchi412@gmail.com; msimpson@irwindaleca.gov;
emd.emdweb@lacity.org; eric.boldt@noaa.gov; mark.jackson@noaa.gov; w-lox.webmaster@noaa.gov ;
davejohnson@onemain.com; juancarlos.lopez@redcross.org; Rodney.porter@sce.com;
wally.zimmerman@sce.com; ssifuentes@semprautilities.com ; publicaffairs.spl@usace.army.mil ;
jim.boiler@verizon.com
Cc: 'Kurt Christiansen' <kchristiansen@ci.azusa.ca.us>; Jeanine Foster
<jeanine.foster@fostermorrison.com>; 'Morse Planning Group' <cmorseplan@dslextreme.com>
Subject: City of Azusa - Final Hazard Mitigation Plan Team Meeting
Hello Everyone,
Please see information below regarding final steps for the City of Azusa Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
(LHMP).
LHMP Public Review Draft and Public Meeting. The LHMP Public Review Draft is up on the City website
for public review and comment at:
https://www.ci.azusa.ca.us/DocumentCenter/View/39384/City -of-Azusa-Local-Hazard-Mitigation-Plan-
Public-Review-
Copies have also being placed at the Azusa City Library and City Economic and Community Development
Department for review. A public meeting o n the Draft LHMP will be held with the City’s Planning
Commission on Wednesday, November 28, 2018 at 7:00 PM at the City of Azusa, Civic Auditorium, 213
E. Foothill Boulevard, Azusa, CA 91702. A press release is being issued by the City. Please help get t he
word out to the public in your area.
Final HMPC Meeting. Also, our final planning team meeting is scheduled for Thursday November 29,
2018 from 9:00 – 11:00 AM, at the Azusa Police Department, EOC, 725 N. Alameda Avenue, Azusa, CA
91702. It is important that everyone attend this final meeting to address any public comments received
and to finalize all input to the plan. A link to the entire LHMP document is provided above. Attached to
this email is Chapter 5, Mitigation Strategies.
Final LHMP Input. All final planning team input to the Draft LHMP needs to be provided no later than
November 29, 2018. Please take this time to review the document in order to provide any final input.
Feel free to provide any input prior to or during the planning team mee ting.
City of Azusa A-26
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
If you have any questions, please contact:
Kurt Christiansen, FAICP
City of Azusa Economic and Community Development Director
kchristiansen@ci.azusa.ca.us
626-812-5236
Jeanine Foster
Foster Morri son
jeanine.foster@fostermorrison.com
303-717-7171
Collette Morse, AICP
Morse Planning Group
cmorseplan@dslextreme.com
949-466-9283
Thank you for your continued engagement in the LHMP process.
Collette L. Morse, AICP, Principal
Morse Planning Group
E: cmorseplan@dslextreme.com
145 North C Street | Tustin, CA 92780
P: 949.466.9283
City of Azusa A-27
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.6.2. Final Team Meeting Agenda
AGENDA
City of Azusa
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP)
Final Public Meeting
November 29 , 201 8
1. Introductions
2. Status of the LHMP Update Process
3. Addressing Public Comments
4. Public Input: Data/Projects
5. Next Steps
City of Azusa A-28
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.6.3. Final Team Meeting Sign in Sheet
City of Azusa A-29
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.7 Public Involvement
A.7.1. Invite to Public Meeting #1/Planning Commission Hearing:
Kickoff Meeting – Public
City of Azusa A-30
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.7.2. Kickoff Meeting Article
City of Azusa A-31
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.7.3. Public Meeting #1 Invitation – San Gabriel Valley Tribune
3/17/2017
City of Azusa A-32
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.7.4. Public Meeting #1/Planning Commission Hearing: Kickoff
Meeting – Public Agenda
CITY OF AZUSA
LOCAL HAZARD MITIGAT ION PLAN (LHMP)
PUBLIC MEETING #1
MARCH 29, 2017
1. Introductions
2. Hazard Mitigation & the Disaster Mitigation Act Planning Requirements
3. Hazard Identification and Profiles
4. Opportunities for Public Participation and Input
5. Schedule
6. Questions and Answers
City of Azusa A-33
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.7.5. Public Meeting #1/Planning Commission Hearing: Kickoff
Meeting – Public Sign in Sheets
City of Azusa A-34
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
City of Azusa A-35
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.7.6. Public Meeting #2/Planning Commission Hearing: Risk
Assessment Overview – Public Agenda
CITY OF AZUSA
LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN (LHMP)
PUBLIC MEETING #2
August 16 , 2017
1. Introductions
2. LHMP Project Overview and Status
3. Risk Assessment Overview
4. Next Steps/Schedule
5. Questions and Answers
City of Azusa A-36
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.7.7. Public Meeting #2/Planning Commission Hearing: Risk
Assessment Overview – Public Sign in Sheets
City of Azusa A-37
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.7.8. Advertisement to Public for Final Plan Review
A.7.9. Website Announcement
City of Azusa A-38
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.7.10. Final Review of Plan – Public Agenda
AGENDA
City of Azusa
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP)
Final Public Meeting
November 28 , 201 8
1. Introductions
2. Status of the LHMP Update Process
3. Addressing Public Comments
4. Final HMPC Input: Data/Projects
5. Next Steps
City of Azusa A-39
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.7.11. Final Review of Plan – Public Sign in Sheets
City of Azusa A-40
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.8 Meeting Handouts
A.8.1. Kickoff Meeting Handouts
Below are the handouts for each meeting.
City of Azusa Hazard Identification and Profiles – 2017
Los Angeles County Historic Hazard Occurrences
Table A-3 NCDC Severe Weather Events for Marin County 1950–12/31/2016
Event Type Number
of Events
Deaths Injuries Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
Deaths
(indirect)
Injuries
(indirect)
Avalanche 1 3 3 $0 $0 0 0
Coastal Flood 1 0 1 $0 $0 0 0
Debris Flows 2 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Dense Fog 1 0 41 $0 $0 0 0
Dust Devil 3 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Dust Storm 1 0 1 $0 $0 0 0
Excessive Heat 10 8 0 $0 $0 0 0
Flash Flood 129 7 4 $1,310,000 $3,200,00 0 0
Flood 17 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Frost/Freeze 3 0 0 0 $8,200,000 0 0
Funnel Cloud 9 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Hail 24 0 0 $3,500,000 $0 0 0
Heat 10 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Heavy Rain 13 0 4 $5,000,000 $0 0 0
Heavy Snow 26 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
High Surf 30 5 3 $40,000,000 $0 1 0
High Wind 319 0 1 $0 $0 0 0
Lightning 9 2 13 $0 $0 0 0
Rip Current 4 4 1 $0 $0 0 0
Sneakerwave 1 1 4 $0 $0 0 0
Storm Surge/Tide 1 0 27 $0 $0 0 0
Strong Wind 3 2 1 $0 $0 0 1
Thunderstorm Winds 59 0 10 $55,000 $0 0 0
Tornado 44 0 45 $61,195,310 $0 0 0
Tropical Storm 4 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Waterspout 5 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
City of Azusa A-41
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Event Type Number
of Events
Deaths Injuries Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
Deaths
(indirect)
Injuries
(indirect)
Wildfire 48 0 46 $99,800,000 $0 0 2
Winter Storm 59 0 0 $0 $0 0 0
Winter Weather 18 3 0 $0 $0 0 0
Total 854 35 205 $210,860,310 $8,203,200 1 3
Source: NCDC
City of Azusa A-42
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Table A-4 Los Angeles County Disaster Declaration History 1950-2017
Year Disaster
Type
Disaster Cause County Disaster
Number
State
Declaration
Date
Federal
Declaration
Date
1950 Flood 1950 Floods Statewide OCD 50‐01 11/21/1950 –
1954 Flood Flood & Erosion Statewide DR – 15 – 2/5/1954
1955 Flood Flood Statewide DR – 47 12/22/1955 12/23/1955
1956 Fire Forest Fire Statewide DR – 65 – 12/29/1956
1958 Fire Newton Fires (Monrovia Fires) Los Angeles CDO 58‐01 1/3/1958 –
1958 Flood Heavy Rainstorms & Flood Statewide DR – 82 4/2/1958 4/4/1958
1959 Flood Potential Flood Damage and
Landsides as a Result of Fires
Los Angeles CDO 59‐01 1/8/1959 –
1961 Fire Fire (Los Angeles County) Statewide DR – 119 – 11/16/1961
1962 Flood Floods Statewide DR – 122 2/16/62
2/23/62
3/6/1962
1962 Flood Severe Storms & Flooding Statewide DR – 138 – 10/24/1962
1963 Flood Severe Storms, Heavy Rains &
Flooding
Statewide DR – 145 – 2/25/1963
1963 Dam/Levee
Break
Flood Due to Broken Dam Statewide DR – 161 3/16/1964 12/21/1963
1964 Other Seismic Sea Wave Statewide DR – 169 – 4/1/1964
1964 Fire Weldon Fire Los Angeles N/A 3/16/1964 –
964 Storms Floods Los Angeles N/A 4/3/1964 –
1965 Landslide 1965 Landslide Los Angeles N/A 6/21/1965 –
1965 Civil Unrest 1965 Riots Los Angeles N/A 8/14/1965 –
1976 Fire Woodson Fire Los Angeles N/A 1/7/1967 –
1969 Flood Severe Storms & Flooding Los Angeles DR – 253 1/23/69,
1/25,69,
1/28/69,
1/29/69,
2/8/69,
2/10/69,
2/16/69,
3/12/69
1/26/1969
1970 Fire Forest & Brush Fires Los Angeles DR – 295 9/24/70,
9/28/70,
10/1/70,
10/2/70,
10/20/70,
11/14/70
9/29/1970
1971 Earthquake San Fernando Earthquake Los Angeles DR – 299 2/9/1971 2/9/1971
1972 Agricultural
Disease
Exotic Newcastle Disease
Epidemic
Los Angeles N/A 4/10/72,
5/22/72
–
City of Azusa A-43
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Year Disaster
Type
Disaster Cause County Disaster
Number
State
Declaration
Date
Federal
Declaration
Date
1973 Fire 1973 Fires Los Angeles N/A 7/16/1973 –
1974 Economic Gasoline Shortage - OPEC Los Angeles N/A 2/28/74,
3/4/74,
3/10/74
–
1975 Fire 1975 Fires Los Angeles N/A 11/24/1975 –
1976 Drought 1976 Drought Los Angeles N/A 2/9/76,
2/13,76,
2/24/76,
3/26/76,
7/6/76
–
1978 Flood Coastal Storms, Mudslides &
Flooding
Los Angeles DR – 547 3/9/78,
2/27,78,
2/13/78
2/15/1978
1978 Fire Brush Fires Los Angeles EM – 3067 10/24/1978 10/29/1978
1979 Fire 1979 Fires Los Angeles N/A 9/28/79,
9/21/79,
9/20/79
–
1979 Economic Gasoline Shortage - OPEC Los Angeles N/A 5/8/79 ‐
11/13/79
–
1980 Flood Severe Storms, Mudslides &
Flooding
Los Angeles DR – 615 2/21/80,
2/7/80,
2/19/80
2/21/1980
1980 Fire Brush & Timber Fires Los Angeles DR – 635 11/18/1980,
11/25/80
11/27/1980
1981 Agricultural
Insect pest
1981 Mediterranean Fruit Fly
Infestation
Los Angeles N/A 8/8/81 ‐
9/25/81
–
1982 Fire Dayton Hills Fire Los Angeles GP 1982 10/10/1982 –
1983 Coastal
Storm
Coastal Storms, Floods, Slides &
Tornadoes
Los Angeles DR – 677 12/8/82‐
3/21/83
2/9/1983
1983 Flood 1983 Floods Los Angeles 82‐19 3/83 –
1983 High Winds Wind Storms Los Angeles 83‐01 3/83 –
1983 Agricultural
Insect pests
Mexican Fruit Fly Los Angeles N/A 11/4/1983 –
1985 Fire 1985 Statewide Fires Los Angeles DR‐739 7/1/85 ‐
7/11/85
7/18/1985
1987 Agricultural
Insect pest
Mediterranean Fruit Fly Los Angeles GP 1987 8/25/1987 –
1987 Earthquake Earthquake & Aftershocks Los Angeles DR – 799 10/2/87 ‐
10/5/87
10/7/1987
1988 Flood Severe Storms, High Tides &
Flooding
Los Angeles DR – 812 1/21/1988 2/5/1988
1988 Fire 1988 Fires Los Angeles GP 87‐07 5/88 –
City of Azusa A-44
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Year Disaster
Type
Disaster Cause County Disaster
Number
State
Declaration
Date
Federal
Declaration
Date
1988 Agricultural
Insect pest
Mediterranean Fruit Fly Los Angeles GP 1988 7/21/1988 –
1988 Fire Fires (Los Angeles) Los Angeles GP 88‐03 12/9/1988 –
1989 Agricultural
Insect pest
Mediterranean Fruit Fly (Los
Angeles)
Los Angeles GP 1989 8/9/1989 –
1990 Earthquake Earthquake Los Angeles GP 89‐07 3/9/90,
3/13/90
–
1990 Agricultural
Insect pest
Mexican Fruit Fly Los Angeles GP 1990 5/14/1990 –
1990 Fire Fires Los Angeles DR – 872 6/28/90,
6/29/90
6/30/1990
1991 Freezing Severe Freeze Los Angeles DR – 894 12/19/90‐
1/18/91
2/11/1991
1991 Earthquake Sierra Madre Earthquake Los Angeles GP 91‐04 7/5/1991 –
1992 Flood Rain/Snow/Wind Storms,
Flooding, Mudslides
Los Angeles DR – 935 2/12/92,
2/19/92
2/25/1992
1992 Fire Fire During A Period Of Civil
Unrest
Los Angeles DR – 942 4/29/1992 5/2/1992
1993 Flood Severe Winter Storm, Mud &
Land Slides, & Flooding
Los Angeles DR – 979 1/7/93 ‐
2/19/93
2/3/1993
1993 Fire Fires, Mud/Landslides,
Flooding, Soil Erosion
Los Angeles DR – 1005 – 10/28/1993
1994 Earthquake Northridge Earthquake Los Angeles DR – 1008 1/17/94,
1/24/94
1/17/1994
1995 Severe
Storm
Severe Winter Storms, Flooding,
Landslides, Mud Flows
Los Angeles DR – 1044 1/6/95 ‐
3/14/95
1/10/1995
1995 Severe
Storm
Severe Winter Storms, Flooding
Landslides, Mud Flow
Los Angeles DR – 1046 1/6/95 ‐
3/14/95
3/12/1995
1996 Severe Fires Fire Los Angeles 96‐04 1996 10/22/1996 –
1996 Fire Severe Firestorms Los Angeles EM – 3120 10/1/1996 10/23/1996
1998 Severe
Storm
Severe Winter Storms And
Flooding
Los Angeles DR – 1203 Proclaimed 2/9/1998
2001 Flood Storms Los Angeles DC 2001‐
01 2001
3/1/2001 –
2001 Economic Greed Statewide GP 2001 1/1/2001 –
2002 Fire Ca - Copper Fire Los Angeles FS – 2417 – 6/6/2002
2002 Fire Leona Fire Los Angeles FS – 2462 – 9/4/2002
2002 Fire Williams Fire Los Angeles FS – 2464 – 9/24/2002
2003 Agricultural
Disease
Exotic Newcastle Disease
Epidemic
Los Angeles GP 2003
2003
1/3/2003
2003 Fire Ca - Wildfire (Pacific Fire) Los Angeles FM – 2466 – 1/7/2003
City of Azusa A-45
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Year Disaster
Type
Disaster Cause County Disaster
Number
State
Declaration
Date
Federal
Declaration
Date
2003 Fire Ca-Verdale Fire Los Angeles FM – 2502 – 10/25/2003
2003 Fire Wildfires, Flooding, Mudflow
And Debris Flow
Los Angeles DR – 1498 10/26/2003 10/27/2003
2003 Flood Storms Los Angeles GP 2003‐04
2
11/14/2003 –
2004 Fire Ca - Pine Fire Los Angeles FM – 2528 7/14/2004
2004 Fire Ca-Foothill Wildfire Los Angeles FM – 2534 – 7/18/2004
2004 Fire Ca-Crown Wildfire Los Angeles FM – 2535 – 7/21/2004
2005 Severe
Storm
Severe Storms, Flooding, Debris
Flows, And Mudslides
Los Angeles DR – 1577
GP2005‐01
1/12/2005 2/4/2005
2005 Severe
Storm
Severe Storms, Flooding,
Landslides, And Mud And
Debris Flows
Los Angeles DR – 1585 3/16/2005 4/14/2005
2005 Hurricane Hurricane Katrina Evacuation Los Angeles EM – 3248 – 9/13/2005
2005 Fire Topanga Fire Los Angeles FM – 2583 – 9/28/2005
2007 Freezing Severe Freeze Los Angeles DR – 1689 – 3/13/2007
2007 Fire Griffith Park Fire Los Angeles FM – 2691 – 5/9/2007
2007 Fire Island Fire Los Angeles FM – 2694 – 5/10/2007
2007 Fire Canyon Fire Los Angeles FM – 2708 – 7/8/2007
2007 Fire Buckweed Fire Los Angeles FM – 2733 – 10/21/2007
2007 Fire Canyon Fire Los Angeles FM – 2732 – 10/21/2007
2007 Fire Ranch Fire Los Angeles FM – 2736 – 10/22/2007
2007 Fire Wildfires Los Angeles EM – 3279 – 10/23/2007
2007 I‐5 Major
Collision
Road Damage Accident Los Angeles GP 2007‐13 10/14/2007 –
2007 Fire Wildfires, Flooding, Mud Flows,
And Debris Flows
Los Angeles DR – 1731 – 10/24/2007
2008 Fire Santa Anita Fire Los Angeles FM – 2763 – 4/27/2008
2008 Fire Firestorms and Flooding Los Angeles GP 2008‐09
2008
4/27/2008 –
2008 Fire Marek Fire Los Angeles FM – 2788 – 10/12/2008
2008 Fire Sesnon Fire Los Angeles FM – 2789 – 10/13/2008
2008 Fire Freeway Fire Complex Los Angeles FM – 2792 – 11/15/2008
2008 Fire Sayre Fire Los Angeles FM – 2791 – 11/15/2008
2008 Fire Wildfires Los Angeles DR – 1810 – 11/18/2008
2009 Fire Pv Fire Los Angeles FM – 2828 – 8/28/2009
2009 Fire Station Fire Los Angeles FM – 2830 – 8/28/2009
2009 Fire Los Angeles County Wildfires Los Angeles GP-2009-05 N/A –
City of Azusa A-46
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Year Disaster
Type
Disaster Cause County Disaster
Number
State
Declaration
Date
Federal
Declaration
Date
2010 Severe
Storm
Severe Winter Storms, Flooding,
And Debris And Mud Flows
Los Angeles DR – 1884 1/21/2010,
1/22/2010,
1/27/2010
3/8/2010
2010 Fire Crown Fire Los Angeles FM – 2851 – 7/30/2010
2013 Fire Powerhouse Fire Los Angeles FM – 5025 – 6/2/2013
2014 Fire Colby Fire Los Angeles FM – 5051 – 1/16/2014
2014 California
Drought
Drought Drought GP 2014-13 1/17/2014 –
2016 Fire Old Fire Los Angeles FM – 5124 – 6/5/2016
2016 Fire Fish Fire Los Angeles FM – 5129 – 6/21/2016
2016 Fire Sage Fire Los Angeles FM – 5132 – 7/9/2016
2016 Fire Sand Fire Los Angeles FM – 5135 – 7/23/2016
City of Azusa A-47
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Table A-5 Azusa Hazard Identification Table
Hazard
Geographic
Extent
Probability
of Future
Occurrences
Magnitude/
Severity Significance
Climate
Change
Influence
Climate Change Extensive Likely Negligible Low ---
Dam Failure Extensive Unlikely Catastrophic High Low
Drought and Water Shortage Extensive Likely Limited Medium Medium
Earthquake Extensive Likely Catastrophic High ---
Earthquake Liquefaction Extensive Occasional Catastrophic High ---
Flood: 100/500–year
Significant
Occasional/
Unlikely Critical Medium
Medium
Flood: Localized/Stormwater Limited Highly Likely Negligible Medium Medium
Landslide and Mudslides Limited Likely Limited Medium Low
Levee Failure Limited
Severe Weather: Extreme Heat Extensive Highly Likely Negligible Low Medium
Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms Extensive Highly Likely Negligible Medium Medium
Severe Weather: High Winds Extensive Highly Likely Limited Medium ---
Wildfire Significant Likely Critical High Medium
Geographic Extent
Limited: Less than 10% of planning area
Significant: 10-50% of planning area
Extensive: 50-100% of planning area
Probability of Future Occurrences
Highly Likely: Near 100% chance of
occurrence in next year, or happens every
year.
Likely: Between 10 and 100% chance of
occurrence in next year, or has a
recurrence interval of 10 years or less.
Occasional: Between 1 and 10% chance
of occurrence in the next year, or has a
recurrence interval of 11 to 100 years.
Unlikely: Less than 1% chance of
occurrence in next 100 years, or has a
recurrence interval of greater than every
100 years.
Magnitude/Severity
Catastrophic—More than 50 percent of property severely damaged;
shutdown of facilities for more than 30 days; and/or multiple deaths
Critical—25-50 percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of
facilities for at least two weeks; and/or injuries and/or illnesses result in
permanent disability
Limited—10-25 percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of
facilities for more than a week; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable do not
result in permanent disability
Negligible—Less than 10 percent of property severely damaged,
shutdown of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or
injuries/illnesses treatable with first aid
Significance
Low: minimal potential impact
Medium: moderate potential impact
High: widespread potential impact
Climate Change Impact:
Low: Climate change is not likely to increase the probability of this
hazard.
Medium: Climate change is likely to increase the probability of this hazard.
High: Climate change is very likely to increase the probability of this
hazard.
City of Azusa A-48
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
City of Azusa
2017 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Vulnerability & Capability Worksheets
Risk and Vulnerability Questions
Localized/Stormwater Flooding
1. Please describe the localized/stormwater flood issue specific to your jurisdiction in paragraph form. In
addition, please complete a table similar to the below example detailing types and location of
localized/stormwater flooding problems. If available, also attach a map of problem areas.
Text Description:
Table 6 Localized Flooding Areas
Road Name Flooding
Pavement
Deterioration Washouts
High
Water/
Creek
Crossing
Landslides/
Mudslides Debris
Downed
Trees
City of Azusa A-49
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Earthquake Vulnerability
1. Number of unreinforced masonry buildings. If available, please provide an inventory of URM buildings
specific to your jurisdiction. Include any tables and/or maps. Is this a layer available in GIS?
Special Populations
1. Describe any hazard-related concerns or issues regarding the vulnerability of special needs populations,
such as the elderly, disabled, low-income, or migrant farm workers.
Development Trends
1. Describe development trends and expected growth areas and how they relate to hazard areas and
vulnerability concerns/issues. Please provide zoning maps and maps and tables detailing areas targeted for
future development within your jurisdiction.
City of Azusa A-50
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT
Capabilities are the programs and policies currently in use to reduce hazard impacts or that could be used
to implement hazard mitigation activities. Please complete the tables and questions in the worksheet as
completely as possible.
Planning and Regulatory
The following planning and land management tools are typically used by local jurisdictions to implement
hazard mitigation activities. Please indicate which of the following your jurisdiction has in place. If your
jurisdiction does not have this capability or authority, please indicate in the comments column if a higher
level of government has the authority.
Plans
Y/N
Year
Does the plan/program address hazards?
Does the plan identify projects to include in the mitigation
strategy?
Can the plan be used to implement mitigation actions?
General Plan
Capital Improvements Plan
Economic Development Plan
Local Emergency Operations Plan
Continuity of Operations Plan
Transportation Plan
Stormwater Management Plan/Program
Engineering Studies for Streams
Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Other special plans (e.g., brownfields
redevelopment, disaster recovery, coastal
zone management, climate change
adaptation)
Building Code, Permitting, and
Inspections Y/N Are codes adequately enforced?
Building Code
Building Code Effectiveness Grading
Schedule (BCEGS) Score
Fire department ISO rating:
Site plan review requirements
Land Use Planning and Ordinances Y/N
Is the ordinance an effective measure for reducing hazard
impacts?
Is the ordinance adequately administered and enforced?
Zoning ordinance
Subdivision ordinance
Floodplain ordinance
City of Azusa A-51
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Natural hazard specific ordinance
(stormwater, steep slope, wildfire)
Flood insurance rate maps
Elevation Certificates
Acquisition of land for open space and
public recreation uses
Erosion or sediment control program
Other
How can these capabilities be expanded and improved to reduce risk?
Administrative/Technical
Identify the technical and personnel resources responsible for activities related to hazard mitigation/loss
prevention within your jurisdiction. For smaller jurisdictions without local staff resources, if there are public
resources at the next higher level government that can provide technical assistance, please indicate so in
the comments column.
Administration Y/N
Describe capability
Is coordination effective?
Planning Commission
Mitigation Planning Committee
Maintenance programs to reduce risk
(e.g., tree trimming, clearing drainage
systems)
Mutual aid agreements
Other
Staff
Y/N
FT/PT
Is staffing adequate to enforce regulations?
Is staff trained on hazards and mitigation?
Is coordination between agencies and staff effective?
Chief Building Official
Floodplain Administrator
Emergency Manager
Community Planner
Civil Engineer
GIS Coordinator
Other
Technical Y/N
Describe capability
Has capability been used to assess/mitigate risk in the
past?
Warning systems/services
(Reverse 911, outdoor warning signals)
City of Azusa A-52
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Hazard data and information
Grant writing
Hazus analysis
Other
How can these capabilities be expanded and improved to reduce risk?
Fiscal
Identify whether your jurisdiction has access to or is eligible to use the following financial resources for
hazard mitigation
Funding Resource
Access/
Eligibility
(Y/N)
Has the funding resource been used in past
and for what type of activities?
Could the resource be used to fund future
mitigation actions?
Capital improvements project funding
Authority to levy taxes for specific purposes
Fees for water, sewer, gas, or electric services
Impact fees for new development
Storm water utility fee
Incur debt through general obligation bonds and/or
special tax bonds
Incur debt through private activities
Community Development Block Grant
Other federal funding programs
State funding programs
Other
How can these capabilities be expanded and improved to reduce risk?
City of Azusa A-53
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Education and Outreach
Identify education and outreach programs and methods already in place that could be/or are used to
implement mitigation activities and communicate hazard-related information.
Program/Organization Yes/No
Describe program/organization and how
relates to disaster resilience and mitigation.
Could the program/organization help
implement future mitigation activities?
Local citizen groups or non-profit organizations
focused on environmental protection, emergency
preparedness, access and functional needs
populations, etc.
Ongoing public education or information program
(e.g., responsible water use, fire safety, household
preparedness, environmental education)
Natural disaster or safety related school programs
StormReady certification
Firewise Communities certification
Public-private partnership initiatives addressing
disaster-related issues
Other
How can these capabilities be expanded and improved to reduce risk?
City of Azusa A-54
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Worksheet
Use this worksheet to collect information on your community’s participation in and continued compliance
with the NFIP, as well as identify areas for improvement that could be potential mitigation actions.
NFIP Topic Comments
Insurance Summary
How many NFIP policies are in the community? What is the total premium and
coverage?
How many claims have been paid in the community? What is the total amount of
paid claims? How many of the claims were for substantial damage?
How many structures are exposed to flood risk within the community?
Describe any areas of flood risk with limited NFIP policy coverage
Staff Resources
Is the Community Floodplain Administrator or NFIP Coordinator certified?
Provide an explanation of NFIP administration services (e.g., permit review, GIS,
education or outreach, inspections, engineering capability)
What are the barriers to running an effective NFIP program in the community, if
any?
Compliance History
Is the community in good standing with the NFIP?
Are there any outstanding compliance issues (i.e., current violations)?
When was the most recent Community Assistance Visit (CAV) or Community
Assistance Contact (CAC)?
Is a CAV or CAC scheduled or needed?
Regulation
When did the community enter the NFIP?
Are the FIRMs digital or paper?
Do floodplain development regulations meet or exceed FEMA or State minimum
requirements? If so, in what ways?
Provide an explanation of the permitting process.
Community Rating System
Does the community participate in CRS?
What is the community’s CRS Class Ranking?
What categories and activities provide CRS points and how can the class be
improved?
Does the plan include CRS planning requirements?
Prepared by: Date Email Phone
City of Azusa A-55
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
HISTORIC HAZARD EVENTS WORKSHEET
Please fill out one sheet for each significant hazard event with as much detail as possible. Attach supporting
documentation, photocopies of newspaper articles, or other original sources.
Type of event
Nature and
magnitude of event
Location
Date of event
Injuries
Deaths
Property damage
Infrastructure
damage
Crop damage
Business/economic
impacts
Road/school/other
closures
Other damage
Insured losses
Federal/state
disaster relief
funding
Opinion on
likelihood of
occurring again
Source of
information
Comments
Please return worksheets by mail, email, or fax to:
Jeanine Foster, Foster Morrison
5628 West Long Place
Littleton, CO 80123
fax: (720) 893-0863
email: jeanine.foster@fostermorrison.com
Prepared by:
Phone:
Email:
Date:
City of Azusa A-56
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.8.2. Risk Assessment Meeting Handouts
Risk Assessment Summary: City of Azusa
Climate Change
➢ The 2013 State of California Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan stated that climate change is already
affecting California. Sea levels have risen by as much as seven inches along the California coast over
the last century, increasing erosion and pressure on the state’s infrastructure, water supplies, and natural
resources. The State has also seen increased average temperatures, more extreme hot days, fewer cold
nights, a lengthening of the growing season, shifts in the water cycle with less winter precipitation
falling as snow, and both snowmelt and rainwater running off sooner in the year. Climate Change has
the potential to alter the nature and frequency of most hazards.
➢ HAS THE CITY NOTICED ANY CHANGES/IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH CLIMATE
CHANGE?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Likely
➢ Vulnerability: Medium?
➢ Non-Priority Hazard??
Dam failure
➢ City of Azusa High Hazard Dams of concern – Morris and San Gabriel -failure would flood downstream
areas and could cause loss of life and property. According to the General Plan EIR, 95 percent of the
City is located within the inundation area of one of these dams.
➢ ANY FAILURES OR SCARES IN AZUSA?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Unlikely
➢ Vulnerability: Extremely High
➢ Priority Hazard
Drought and Water Shortage
➢ Historical drought data for Azusa and region indicate there have been 5 significant droughts in the last
85 years.
➢ There have been no federal and two state declarations (1976, 2014) in Los Angeles County due to
drought since 1950. There have been no NCDC drought events in LA County or Azusa.
➢ CAN THE CITY IDENTIFY ANY PAST DROUGHT EVENTS AND THEIR IMPACTS? WHAT
ARE THE CITY’S PRIMARY IMPACTS/CONCERNS WITH DROUGHT EVENTS? WATER
SUPPLY?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Likely
➢ Vulnerability: High
➢ Priority Hazard
Earthquake
➢ Multiple known faults traverse the city, including the Sierra Madre Fault and the Upper Duarte Fault,
as well as multiple unnamed faults. Furthermore, four critical regional faults (Sierra, Raymond,
Whittier, and San Andreas Central) are located within a 100 kilometer radius of the City.
City of Azusa A-57
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
➢ There has been three federal and five state disaster declaration for earthquakes in Los Angeles County.
HOW WAS THE CITY AFFECTED BY ANY OF THESE EVENTS? IMPACTS?
➢ California Division of Mines and Geology, shows Azusa is located in an area of high earthquake
shaking. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) issues National Seismic Hazard Maps that shows that
the expected severity of earthquakes in the region is moderate to very high.
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Occasional (major earthquake)/Likely (minor earthquake)
➢ Vulnerability: High?
➢ Priority Hazard
Earthquake Liquefaction
➢ The General Plan Natural Environment Element noted that the hazard of liquefaction, where a buried
saturated sand layer liquefies during an earthquake, is present over nearly all of the City’s valley due
to the shallow water and strong earthquake shaking potential. According to the Azusa General Plan
EIR, much of the northern portion of the City, north of Foothill Boulevard has potential for liquefaction
as does a portion south of Foothill Boulevard to approximately 2nd Street between Todd Avenue and
Rockvale Avenue.
➢ There has been no disaster declarations for earthquake liquefaction in Los Angeles County or Azusa.
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Occasional since liquefaction is a secondary hazard to earthquake.
➢ Vulnerability: High to Extremely High?
➢ Priority Hazard
Flood Hazards
100/500 year
➢ The City of Azusa is located in the San Gabriel River Watershed. The watershed drains into the San
Gabriel River from the San Gabriel Mountains flowing 58 miles south until its confluence with the
Pacific Ocean.
➢ Los Angeles County has experience multiple federal and state declarations related to flooding since
1950. The NCDC showed 147 flood event from 1950 through 2016; 4 of which were identified as
affecting Azusa.
➢ PLEASE REVIEW FLOOD SECTION AND PROVIDE INFO ON AZUSA FLOOD HISTORY AND
HOW AZUSA WAS IMPACTED BY HISTORICAL FLOOD EVENTS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: 100-Occasional; 500-Unlikely
➢ Vulnerability: High
➢ Priority Hazard
Localized/Stormwater flooding
➢ Significant localized flood history in the City – occurs annually
➢ CAN THE HMPC PROVIDE DETAILS ON THESE AREAS? PICTURES/DESCRIPTIONS?
COMPLETE TABLE FROM RISK ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET.
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Highly Likely
➢ Vulnerability: Medium
➢ Priority Hazard
City of Azusa A-58
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Landslides and Mud Flows
➢ Due to the topography in and around Azusa and the rainfall the City receives during the winter, it is
likely future occurrences of landslide, mudslide, and debris flow will occur.
➢ There have been no disaster declarations associated with landslides in Azusa. The NCDC contains no
records of landslides in the City.
➢ WHAT AREAS ARE AT RISK TO LANDSLIDES? CAN THE CITY PROVIDE INFORMATION
ON PAST LANDSLIDE EVENTS AND IMPACTS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Occasional?
➢ Vulnerability: Low?
➢ Non-Priority Hazard?
Levee Failure
➢ National Levee database shows leveed areas in the western portion of the City along the banks of the
San Gabriel River, known as the San Gabriel River 7 (SGR7) Levee System, owned and operated by
the USACE. FIS indicates no levees in the City are certified as providing 100-year level of flood
protection.
➢ ANY PAST LEVEE FAILURE EVENTS? IMPACTS? CONCERNS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Unlikely
➢ Vulnerability: Medium
➢ Priority Hazard
Severe weather
Extreme Heat
➢ Annual occurrences of hot weather
➢ 20 extreme heat events (NCDC), occurring on 8 dates, for LA County since 1993
➢ No state or federal disaster declarations
➢ CAN THE CITY IDENTIFY ANY PAST HEAT EVENTS AND THEIR IMPACTS?
➢ WHAT ARE THE CITY’S PRIMARY IMPACTS/CONCERNS WITH EXTREME HEAT EVENTS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Highly Likely
➢ Vulnerability: Low
➢ Non-Priority Hazard
Heavy rains and storms
➢ Significant City history: annual occurrences
➢ The NCDC data recorded 149 severe weather incidents for LA County since 1950; unknown how City
was effected?
➢ There have been 7 state declarations and 6 federal declarations in LA County since 1950; unknown
how City was effected?
➢ CAN THE CITY IDENTIFY ANY PAST SEVERE STORM EVENTS AND THEIR IMPACTS?
➢ WHAT ARE THE CITY’S PRIMARY IMPACTS/CONCERNS WITH EXTREME STORM
EVENTS?
➢ Severe storms/heavy rains are the primary cause of most major flooding
City of Azusa A-59
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Highly Likely
➢ Vulnerability: Medium
➢ Priority Hazard
High Winds and Tornadoes
➢ Annual occurrences
➢ Heavy rains and severe storms occur in the City primarily during the late fall, winter, and spring (i.e.,
November through April). Damaging winds often accompany these storm systems moving through the
area. Tornadoes may also occur, but are very rare in the City as well as in Los Angeles County.
➢ 438 high wind events (NCDC) for LA County since 1950; unknown how the city was effected?
➢ 1 state disaster declaration (1983) in LA County
➢ CAN THE CITY IDENTIFY ANY PAST HIGH WIND AND TORNADO EVENTS AND THEIR
IMPACTS?
➢ WHAT ARE THE CITY’S PRIMARY IMPACTS/CONCERNS WITH EXTREME HIGH WINDS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Highly Likely
➢ Vulnerability: Medium
➢ Priority Hazard
Wildfire
➢ Wildfires occur on an annual basis in the Azusa planning area.
➢ Generally, the fire season can be year around in the City, with the more extreme portions of the season
extending from early spring through late fall of each year during the hotter, dryer months.
➢ Numerous state and federal disaster declarations for wildfire since 1950 in LA County
➢ Numerous named fires causing a variety of damages near Azusa
➢ Any ignition has the potential to become an out of control wildfire.
➢ CAN THE CITY IDENTIFY ANY PAST WILDFIRE EVENTS AND THEIR DAMAGES/IMPACTS
TO THE CITY? MAPS, PHOTOS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Highly Likely
➢ Vulnerability: High
➢ Priority Hazard
A.8.3. Mitigation Strategy Meeting Handouts
Handouts specific to the Mitigation Strategy Meetings can be found in Appendix C.
City of Azusa A-60
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
A.8.4. Final Meting Handouts
Hazards List
➢ Climate Change
➢ Dam Failure
➢ Drought and Water Shortage
➢ Earthquake
➢ Earthquake Liquefaction
➢ Flood: (100/500 year)
➢ Flood: Localized/Stormwater
➢ Landslides and Mudslides
➢ Levee Failure
➢ Severe Weather: Extreme Heat
➢ Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and Storms
➢ Severe Weather: High Winds
➢ Wildfire
City of Azusa A-61
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Mitigation Strategy: Goals
➢ Goal 1: Minimize risk and vulnerability of Azusa to natural hazards and protect lives and
prevent losses to property, public heath, economy, and the environment.
✓ Objective 1.1: Reduce the risk and vulnerability to the community from all identified hazards of
concern, with an emphasis on priority hazards, such as wildfire, flood, and earthquake.
✓ Objective 1.1: Provide protection for existing and future development.
✓ Objective 1.2: Provide protection for critical facilities, utilities, and services.
✓ Objective 1.3: Provide protection for natural resources and the environment.
➢ Goal 2: Increase community education, awareness, and preparedness to hazards of
concern and promote participation and action to reduce hazard-related losses.
✓ Objective 2.1: Improve resiliency from hazard events by increasing awareness and emphasizing
preparedness for city workers and residents.
✓ Objective 2.2: Inform and educate residents and businesses about all hazards they are exposed to,
where they occur, what they can do to mitigate exposure or damages.
✓ Objective 2.3: Make developers, builders, and the public aware that these mitigation measure are
cost effective and in their long-term best interest
✓ Objective 2.4: Increase use of technologies to better inform the public, before, during, and after an
emergency.
➢ Goal 3: Improve community’s capabilities to prevent/mitigate hazard-related losses and
to be prepared for, respond to, and recover from a disaster event.
✓ Objective 3.1: Continued improvements to emergency management capabilities to protect the
safety of all constituents, reduce losses, and speed community recovery.
✓ Objective 3.2: Make better use of technologies to enhance community preparedness and
readiness.
✓ Objective 3.3: Update, strengthen, and integrate community disaster preparedness, emergency
response, and recovery plans.
✓ Objective 3.4: Establish and coordinate departmental/agency policies and responsibilities for
hazard events through disaster planning and exercising
✓ Objective 3.5: Maintain community access to essential services and maintain current service
levels during a hazard event.
✓ Objective 3.6: Ensure availability of mutual aid resources and cooperation between all agencies.
✓ Objective 3.6: Promote hazard policies and standards in the Safety Element of the General Plan.
City of Azusa Appendix A-62
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
December 2018
Mitigation Strategy: City of Azusa Mitigation Actions
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
Multi-Hazard Mitigation Actions
1. Integrate Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan into Safety Element of General
Plan
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide
and Mudslides, Levee Failure,
Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Prevention
2. Public Awareness, Education,
Outreach, and Preparedness Program
Enhancements.
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide
and Mudslides, Levee Failure,
Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Public Information
3. Establish CERT Program 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide
and Mudslides, Levee Failure,
Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Emergency Service
City of Azusa Appendix A-63
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
December 2018
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
4. Develop Emergency Operations Plan
(EOP) Update and all Annexes
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide
and Mudslides, Levee Failure,
Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Emergency Services
5. Evacuation Planning 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide
and Mudslides, Levee Failure,
Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Emergency Services
6. City Ordinance and Regulatory
Updates for All Hazards
1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide
and Mudslides, Levee Failure,
Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
City of Azusa Appendix A-64
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
December 2018
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
7. Coordinate Mitigation Efforts 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide
and Mudslides, Levee Failure,
Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
Emergency Services
Public Information
8. GIS Mapping and Data Updates 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Earthquake,
Earthquake Liquefaction, Flood:
1%/0.2% chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide
and Mudslides, Levee Failure,
Tornadoes, and Wildfire
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Emergency Services
9. Above Ground Storage Tanks 1, 2, 3 Drought and Water Shortage,
Earthquake, and Wildfire
X X Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Emergency Services
10. Access Road Improvements 1, 2, 3 Dam Failure, Drought and Water
Shortage, Earthquake, Earthquake
Liquefaction, Flood: 1%/0.2%
chance, Flood:
Localized/Stormwater, Landslide
and Mudslides, Levee Failure,
Severe Weather: Heavy Rains and
Storms, Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes, and
Wildfire
X X Property Protection
Emergency Services
Climate Change Actions
City of Azusa Appendix A-65
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
December 2018
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
11. Climate Change Planning 1, 2, 3 Climate Change (and all hazards
affected by it)
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
Drought Actions
12. Drought Program 1, 2, 3 Drought and Water Shortage X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
Public Information
Earthquake and Liquefaction Actions
13. Earthquake Program 1, 2, 3 Earthquake, Liquefaction, and
Dam Failure
X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Flood, Localized Flood, Levee Failure, and Dam Failure Actions
14. Flood/Stormwater Program 1, 2, 3 Localized Flood, Flood (1% and
.2% Annual Chance), Levee
Failure, Dam Failure
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Landslide Actions
15. Landslide Program 1, 2, 3 Landslide X X Prevention
Property Protection
Emergency Services
Severe Weather Actions
City of Azusa Appendix A-66
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
December 2018
Hazard/ Mitigation Action Title
Goals
Addressed Hazards Addressed
Address
Existing
Development
Address
Future
Development
Continued
Compliance
with NFIP Mitigation Type
16. Severe Weather Program 1, 2, 3 Drought, Heavy Rains and Storms,
High Winds and Tornadoes
X X X Prevention
Property Protection
Structural Projects
Natural Resource
Protection
Emergency Services
Public Information
Wildfire Actions
17. Wildfire Program – Fuels
Management
1, 2, 3 Wildfire X X Prevention
Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
18. Wildfire Program – Water
Management
1, 2, 3 Wildfire, Drought and Water
Shortage
X X Property Protection
Natural Resource
Protection
City of Azusa B-1
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Appendix B References
2013 State of California Hazard Mitigation Plan
2014 Los Angeles County All Hazard Mitigation Plan
2014 USGS National Seismic Hazard Maps
ArkStorm at Tahoe - Stakeholder Perspectives on Vulnerabilities and Preparedness for an Extreme Storm
Event in the Greater Lake Tahoe, Reno and Carson City Region. 2014.
CAL FIRE GIS datasets
CAL FIRE Wildfire History Database
Cal OES
Cal OES Dam Inundation datasets
Cal-Adapt
Cal-Adapt
California Adaptation Planning Guide
California Climate Adaptation Strategy
California Department of Conservation
California Department of Finance, E-1 Report
California Department of Finance, E-4 Report
California Department of Finance, P-1 Report
California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Natural Diversity Database
California Department of Food and Agriculture
California Department of Water Resources
California Department of Water Resources Best Available Maps
California Department of Water Resources Division of Safety of Dams
City of Azusa B-2
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
California Division of Mines and Geology
California Division of Mines and Geology. Earthquake Shaking Potential for California, 2003.
California Geological Survey
California Native Plant Society
California Natural Resources Agency
California Office of Historic Preservation
California’s Drought of 2007-2009, An Overview. State of California Natural Resources Agency,
California Department of Water Resources.
City of Azusa General Plan
City of Azusa General Plan Background Report
City of Azusa General Plan Environmental Impact Report
City of Azusa General Plan.
City of Azusa GIS data
City of Azusa Housing Element 2014-2021
City of Azusa Housing Element Initial Study
City of Azusa Light and Water Department
City of Azusa Public Works
City of Azusa, "Analysis of Existing Conditions and Trends," December 2001.
City staff
Climate Change Impacts in the United States
Dhammakaya Specific Plan
Enhanced Fujita Scale. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center.
Existing plans and studies
Federal Emergency Management Agency – Wind Zones in the United States
City of Azusa B-3
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Federal Emergency Management Agency: Building Performance Assessment: Oklahoma and Kansas
Tornadoes
Federal Emergency Management Agency: Multi-Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment.
FEMA Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map. January 16, 2016.
FEMA Disaster Declaration Database
FEMA Los Angeles County Flood Insurance Study. January 16, 2016.
FEMA’s HAZUS-MH 2.2 GIS-based inventory data
Galloway, Jr Dr. Gerald E. Levees in History: The Levee Challenge. Water Policy Collaborative,
University of Maryland, Visiting Scholar, USACE, IWR.
HMPC input
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Johnstone, J. and Dawson, T. Climatic context and ecological implications of summer fog decline in the
coast redwood region. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, January 7, 2010.
Kenward, Alyson PhD, Adams-Smith, Dennis, and Raja, Urooj. Wildfires and Air Pollution – The Hidden
Health Hazards of Climate Change. Climate Central. 2013.
LA Almanac
Liu, J.C., Mickley, L.J., Sulprizio, M.P. et al. Climatic Change. 138: 655. doi:10.1007/s10584 -016-1762-
6. 2016.
Los Angeles County Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Los Angeles County Flood Insurance Study
Los Angeles County GIS data (hazards and base layers)
Los Angeles County Parcel and Assessor’s Data
Multi-Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment, FEMA 1997
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
National Climatic Data Center Storm Events Database.
National Drought Mitigation Center
National Drought Mitigation Center – Drought Impact Reporter
City of Azusa B-4
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
National Flood Insurance Program
National Institute of Building Science Natural Hazard Mitigation Saves 2017 Interim Report
National Integrated Drought Information System
National Levee Database
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Climatic Data Center
National Park Service – Historic American Buildings Survey and Historic American Engineering Record
National Performance of Dams Program
National Weather Service Heat Index
National Weather Service Wind Chill Index
NCDC
Personal interviews and discussions with planning team members and staff from the City
Personal interviews with planning team members and staff from the County and participating jurisdictions
Public Health Alliance of Southern California
Public Policy Institute of California. If drought continues: Environment and poor rural communities most
likely to suffer. [press release].
State Department of Water Resource’s Delta Atlas
Statewide GIS datasets from other agencies such as Cal OES, FEMA, USGS, CGS, Cal Atlas, and others
TOD Specific Plan
Underwood, E. Models predict longer, deeper US droughts. Science, 347(6223) 707 DOI:
10.1126/science.347.6223.707. 2015.
United State Geologic Survey. Earthquake Intensity Zonation and Quaternary Deposits, Miscellaneous
Field Studies Map 9093, 1977.
University of California Santa Barbara Department of Geology
US Army Corps of Engineers
US Bureau of Reclamation
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January 2019
US Census Bureau 2010 Household Population Estimates
US Drought Monitor
US Fish and Wildlife Service
US Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Wetlands Inventory maps
US Geological Survey
US Geological Survey Open File Report 2015‐3009
USA TODAY
USDA Secretarial Disasters Declarations
USFS GIS datasets
Western Regional Climate Center
Wildfire Today
Written descriptions of inventory and risks provided by Azusa
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January 2019
Appendix C Mitigation Strategy
City of Azusa
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Mitigation Strategy Meetings
August 15 & 16, 2017
Table of Contents
Agenda
Day 1:
➢ Hazard Identification & Profiles…4
➢ Risk Assessment Methodology…5
➢ Risk Assessment Summary …6
➢ City of Azusa Priority Hazards…10
➢ Mitigation Strategy: Goals…11
➢ Sample Goals from Other Plans…12
➢ Goals Development…14
Day 2:
➢ Mitigation Strategy: Actions …16
➢ Categories of Mitigation Measures…16
➢ Mitigation Strategy: Action Plan…21
➢ Mitigation Criteria …21
➢ Initial Prioritization Instructions…24
➢ Mitigation Action Worksheet …25
Jeanine Foster (jeanine.foster@fostermorrison.com)
Foster Morrison Consulting, Ltd.
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AGENDA
City of Azusa
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Mitigation Strategy Meetings
A ugust & 16, 2017
HMPC Meeting #3:
1. Introductions
2. Status of the DMA Planning Process
3. Risk Assessment Update
4. Develop Updated Plan Goals and Objectives
5. Identify and Review Mitigation Alternatives/Projects
HMPC Meeting #4:
1. Introductions
2. Identify and Review Mitigation Alternatives/Projects
3. Review Mitigation Selection Criteria
4. Prioritize Mitigation Projects
5. Review of Schedule/Next Steps
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Risk Assessment & Mitigation Strategy Meetings
Day 1
City of Azusa C-4
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January 2019
Hazard Identification & Profiles
Table 1 Azusa Hazard Identification
Hazard
Geographic
Extent
Likelihood of
Future Occurrences
Magnitude/
Severity Significance
Climate Change
Impacts
Climate Change Extensive Likely Negligible Low ---
Dam Failure Extensive Unlikely Catastrophic High Low
Drought and Water
Shortage Extensive Likely Limited Medium
Medium
Earthquake Extensive Likely Catastrophic High Low
Earthquake Liquefaction Extensive Occasional Catastrophic High Low
Flood: 1%/0.2% chance Significant Occasional/ Unlikely Critical Medium Medium
Flood:
Localized/Stormwater Limited Highly Likely Negligible Medium
Medium
Landslide and Mudslides Limited Likely Limited Medium Low
Levee Failure Limited Unlikely Negligible Medium Low
Severe Weather:
Extreme Heat Extensive Highly Likely Negligible Low
Medium
Severe Weather: Heavy
Rains and Storms Extensive Highly Likely Negligible Medium
Medium
Severe Weather: High
Winds and Tornadoes Extensive Highly Likely Limited Medium Low
Wildfire Significant Likely Critical High Medium
Geographic Extent
Limited: Less than 10% of City
Significant: 10-50% of City
Extensive: 50-100% of City
Probability of Future Occurrences
Highly Likely: Near 100% chance of
occurrence in next year, or happens every
year.
Likely: Between 10 and 100% chance of
occurrence in next year, or has a
recurrence interval of 10 years or less.
Occasional: Between 1 and 10% chance
of occurrence in the next year, or has a
recurrence interval of 11 to 100 years.
Unlikely: Less than 1% chance of
occurrence in next 100 years, or has a
recurrence interval of greater than every
100 years.
Magnitude/Severity
Catastrophic—More than 50 percent of property severely damaged;
shutdown of facilities for more than 30 days; and/or multiple deaths
Critical—25-50 percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities
for at least two weeks; and/or injuries and/or illnesses result in permanent
disability
Limited—10-25 percent of property severely damaged, shutdown of
facilities for more than a week; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable do not
result in permanent disability
Negligible—Less than 10 percent of property severely damaged, shutdown
of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or injuries/illnesses
treatable with first aid
Significance
Low: minimal potential impact
Medium: moderate potential impact
High: widespread potential impact
Climate Change Impact:
Low: Climate change is not likely to increase the probability of this hazard.
Medium: Climate change is likely to increase the probability of this hazard.
High: Climate change is very likely to increase the probability of this hazard.
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Risk Assessment Methodology
Calculating Likelihood of Future Occurrence
The frequency of past events is used in this section to gauge the likelihood of future occurrences. Based
on historical data, the likelihood of future occurrence is categorized into one of the following classifications:
➢ Highly Likely: Near 100% chance of occurrence in next year, or happens every year.
➢ Likely: Between 10 and 100% chance of occurrence in next year, or has a recurrence interval of 10
years or less.
➢ Occasional: Between 1 and 10% chance of occurrence in the next year, or has a recurrence interval of
11 to 100 years.
➢ Unlikely: Less than 1% chance of occurrence in next 100 years, or has a recurrence interval of greater
than every 100 years.
Calculating Vulnerability
Vulnerability is measured in general, qualitative terms, and is a summary of the potential impact based on
past occurrences, spatial extent, and damage and casualty potential:
➢ Extremely Low: The occurrence and potential cost of damage to life and property is very minimal to
non-existent.
➢ Low: Minimal potential impact. The occurrence and potential cost of damage to life and property is
minimal.
➢ Medium: Moderate potential impact. This ranking carries a moderate threat level to the general
population and/or built environment. Here the potential damage is more isolated and less costly than a
more widespread disaster.
➢ High: Widespread potential impact. This ranking carries a high threat to the general population and/or
built environment. The potential for damage is widespread. Hazards in this category may have already
occurred in the past.
➢ Extremely High: Very widespread and catastrophic impact.
Defining Significance (Priority) of a Hazard
Defining the significance or priority of a hazard to a community is based on a subjective analysis of several
factors. This analysis is used to focus and prioritize hazards and associated mitigation measures for the
plan. These factors include the following:
➢ Past Occurrences: Frequency, extent, and magnitude of historic hazard events.
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrences: Based on past hazard events.
➢ Ability to Reduce Losses through Implementation of Mitigation Measures: This looks at both the
ability to mitigate the risk of future occurrences as well as the ability to mitigate the vulnerability of a
community to a given hazard event.
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Risk Assessment Summary: City of Azusa
Climate Change
➢ The 2013 State of California Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan stated that climate change is already
affecting California. Sea levels have risen by as much as seven inches along the California coast over
the last century, increasing erosion and pressure on the state’s infrastructure, water supplies, and natural
resources. The State has also seen increased average temperatures, more extreme hot days, fewer cold
nights, a lengthening of the growing season, shifts in the water cycle with less winter precipitation
falling as snow, and both snowmelt and rainwater running off sooner in the year. Climate Change has
the potential to alter the nature and frequency of most hazards.
➢ HAS THE CITY NOTICED ANY CHANGES/IMPACTS ASSOCIATED WITH CLIMATE
CHANGE?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Likely
➢ Vulnerability: Low
➢ Non-Priority Hazard
Dam failure
➢ City of Azusa High Hazard Dams of concern – Morris and San Gabriel -failure would flood downstream
areas and could cause loss of life and property. According to the General Plan EIR, 95 percent of the
City is located within the inundation area of one of these dams.
➢ ANY FAILURES OR SCARES IN AZUSA?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Unlikely
➢ Vulnerability: Extremely High
➢ Priority Hazard
Drought and Water Shortage
➢ Historical drought data for Azusa and region indicate there have been 5 significant droughts in the last
85 years.
➢ There have been no federal and two state declarations (1976, 2014) in Los Angeles County due to
drought since 1950. There have been no NCDC drought events in LA County or Azusa.
➢ CAN THE CITY IDENTIFY ANY PAST DROUGHT EVENTS AND THEIR IMPACTS? WHAT
ARE THE CITY’S PRIMARY IMPACTS/CONCERNS WITH DROUGHT EVENTS? WATER
SUPPLY?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Likely
➢ Vulnerability: High
➢ Priority Hazard
Earthquake
➢ Multiple known faults traverse the city, including the Sierra Madre Fault and the Upper Duarte Fault,
as well as multiple unnamed faults. Furthermore, four critical regional faults (Sierra, Raymond,
Whittier, and San Andreas Central) are located within a 100 kilometer radius of the City.
➢ There has been three federal and five state disaster declaration for earthquakes in Los Angeles County.
HOW WAS THE CITY AFFECTED BY ANY OF THESE EVENTS? IMPACTS?
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➢ California Division of Mines and Geology, shows Azusa is located in an area of high earthquake
shaking. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) issues National Seismic Hazard Maps that shows that
the expected severity of earthquakes in the region is moderate to very high.
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Occasional (major earthquake)/Likely (minor earthquake)
➢ Vulnerability: Extremely High
➢ Priority Hazard
Earthquake Liquefaction
➢ The General Plan Natural Environment Element noted that the hazard of liquefaction, where a buried
saturated sand layer liquefies during an earthquake, is present over nearly all of the City’s valley due
to the shallow water and strong earthquake shaking potential. According to the Azusa General Plan
EIR, much of the northern portion of the City, north of Foothill Boulevard has potential for liquefaction
as does a portion south of Foothill Boulevard to approximately 2nd Street between Todd Avenue and
Rockvale Avenue.
➢ There has been no disaster declarations for earthquake liquefaction in Los Angeles County or Azusa.
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Occasional since liquefaction is a secondary hazard to earthquake.
➢ Vulnerability: High
➢ Priority Hazard
Flood Hazards
100/500 year
➢ The City of Azusa is located in the San Gabriel River Watershed. The watershed drains into the San
Gabriel River from the San Gabriel Mountains flowing 58 miles south until its confluence with the
Pacific Ocean.
➢ Los Angeles County has experience multiple federal and state declarations related to flooding since
1950. The NCDC showed 147 flood event from 1950 through 2016; 4 of which were identified as
affecting Azusa.
➢ PLEASE REVIEW FLOOD SECTION AND PROVIDE INFO ON AZUSA FLOOD HISTORY AND
HOW AZUSA WAS IMPACTED BY HISTORICAL FLOOD EVENTS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: 100-Occasional; 500-Unlikely
➢ Vulnerability: Medium to High
➢ Priority Hazard
Localized/Stormwater flooding
➢ Significant localized flood history in the City – occurs annually
➢ CAN THE HMPC PROVIDE DETAILS ON THESE AREAS? PICTURES/DESCRIPTIONS?
COMPLETE TABLE FROM RISK ASSESSMENT WORKSHEET.
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Highly Likely
➢ Vulnerability: Medium
➢ Priority Hazard
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Landslides and Mud Flows
➢ Due to the topography in and around Azusa and the rainfall the City receives during the winter, it is
likely future occurrences of landslide, mudslide, and debris flow will occur.
➢ There have been no disaster declarations associated with landslides in Azusa. The NCDC contains no
records of landslides in the City.
➢ WHAT AREAS ARE AT RISK TO LANDSLIDES? CAN THE CITY PROVIDE INFORMATION
ON PAST LANDSLIDE EVENTS AND IMPACTS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Likely
➢ Vulnerability: Low
➢ Non-Priority Hazard
Levee Failure
➢ National Levee database shows leveed areas in the western portion of the City along the banks of the
San Gabriel River, known as the San Gabriel River 7 (SGR7) Levee System, owned and operated by
the USACE. FIS indicates no levees in the City are certified as providing 100-year level of flood
protection.
➢ ANY PAST LEVEE FAILURE EVENTS? IMPACTS? CONCERNS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Unlikely
➢ Vulnerability: Medium
➢ Non-Priority Hazard
Severe weather
Extreme Heat
➢ Annual occurrences of hot weather
➢ 20 extreme heat events (NCDC), occurring on 8 dates, for LA County since 1993
➢ No state or federal disaster declarations
➢ CAN THE CITY IDENTIFY ANY PAST HEAT EVENTS AND THEIR IMPACTS?
➢ WHAT ARE THE CITY’S PRIMARY IMPACTS/CONCERNS WITH EXTREME HEAT EVENTS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Highly Likely
➢ Vulnerability: Low
➢ Non-Priority Hazard
Heavy rains and storms
➢ Significant City history: annual occurrences
➢ The NCDC data recorded 149 severe weather incidents for LA County since 1950; unknown how City
was effected?
➢ There have been 7 state declarations and 6 federal declarations in LA County since 1950; unknown
how City was effected?
➢ CAN THE CITY IDENTIFY ANY PAST SEVERE STORM EVENTS AND THEIR IMPACTS?
➢ WHAT ARE THE CITY’S PRIMARY IMPACTS/CONCERNS WITH EXTREME STORM
EVENTS?
➢ Severe storms/heavy rains are the primary cause of most major flooding
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➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Highly Likely
➢ Vulnerability: Medium
➢ Priority Hazard
High Winds and Tornadoes
➢ Annual occurrences
➢ Heavy rains and severe storms occur in the City primarily during the late fall, winter, and spring (i.e.,
November through April). Damaging winds often accompany these storm systems moving through the
area. Tornadoes may also occur, but are very rare in the City as well as in Los Angeles County.
➢ 438 high wind events (NCDC) for LA County since 1950; unknown how the city was effected?
➢ 1 state disaster declaration (1983) in LA County
➢ CAN THE CITY IDENTIFY ANY PAST HIGH WIND AND TORNADO EVENTS AND THEIR
IMPACTS?
➢ WHAT ARE THE CITY’S PRIMARY IMPACTS/CONCERNS WITH EXTREME HIGH WINDS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Highly Likely
➢ Vulnerability: Medium
➢ Priority Hazard
Wildfire
➢ Wildfires occur on an annual basis in the Azusa planning area.
➢ Generally, the fire season can be year around in the City, with the more extreme portions of the season
extending from early spring through late fall of each year during the hotter, dryer months.
➢ Numerous state and federal disaster declarations for wildfire since 1950 in LA County
➢ Numerous named fires causing a variety of damages near Azusa
➢ Any ignition has the potential to become an out of control wildfire.
➢ CAN THE CITY IDENTIFY ANY PAST WILDFIRE EVENTS AND THEIR DAMAGES/IMPACTS
TO THE CITY? MAPS, PHOTOS?
➢ Likelihood of Future Occurrence: Highly Likely
➢ Vulnerability: High
➢ Priority Hazard
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Azusa Priority Hazards
➢ Climate Change
➢ Dam Failure
➢ Drought & Water Shortage
➢ Earthquake
➢ Earthquake Liquefaction
➢ Flood: 100/500–year
➢ Flood: Localized/Stormwater
➢ Levee Failure?
➢ Severe Weather: Heavy rains and Storms
➢ Severe Weather: High Winds & Tornadoes
➢ Wildfire
Non-Priority Hazards:
➢ Landslides & Mud Flows
➢ Severe Weather: Extreme Heat?
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Mitigation Strategy: Goals
The most important element of the LHMP is the resulting mitigation strategy which serves as the long-term
blueprint for reducing the potential losses identified in the risk assessment. The mitigation strategy is
comprised of three components:
1. Mitigation Goals
2. Mitigation Actions
3. Action (Implementation) Plan
Mitigation Goals
Up to now, the HMPC has been involved in collecting and providing data for the Modoc County Local
Hazard Mitigation Plan Update. From this information, a Risk Assessment has been developed that
describes the risk and vulnerability of the Modoc County planning area to identified hazards and includes
an assessment of the area’s current capabilities for countering these threats through existing policies,
regulations, programs, and projects.
This analysis identifies areas where improvements could or should be made. Formulating Goals will lead
us to incorporating these improvements into the Mitigation Strategy portion of the plan. Our planning goals
should provide direction for what loss reduction activities can be undertaken to make the planning area
more disaster resistant.
Mitigation Goals are general guidelines that represent the community’s vision for reducing or avoiding
losses from identified hazards. Goals are stated without regard for achievement, that is, implementation
cost, schedule, and means are not considered. Goals are public policy statements that:
➢ Represent basic desires of the jurisdiction;
➢ Encompass all aspects of planning area, public and private;
➢ Are nonspecific, in that they refer to the quality (not the quantity) of the outcome;
➢ Are future-oriented, in that they are achievable in the future; and
➢ Are time-independent, in that they are not scheduled events.
While goals are not specific (quantitative), they should not be so general as to be meaningless or
unachievable.
Goals statements will form the basis for objectives. They should be stated in such a way as to develop one
or more objectives related to each goal.
The key point in writing goals is to remember that they must deal with results, not the activities that produce
those results.
Finally, before we formulate our goals, we should discuss other planning area goals from other
regional/county/city programs and priorities. This keeps us from “reinventing the wheel,” as well as being
consistent with Multi-Objective Management --- or “MOM” --- where communities strive for efficiency by
combining projects/needs that are similar in nature or location. Utilizing “MOM” effectively can result in
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identifying multiple sources of funding that can be “packaged” and broadening the supporting constituency
base by including “outcomes” desired by various stakeholder groups.
Types/Sources of other area mitigation plans and programs include:
➢ Emergency Operations Plans
➢ General Plans
➢ Stormwater Program and Plans
➢ Flood/Watershed Management Plans and Studies
➢ Drought Plans
➢ Community Wildfire Protection Plans
➢ Dam Failure Plans
➢ Other?
Sample Goals from other Plans
Goals from the 2013 California State Hazard Mitigation Plan
1. Significantly reduce life loss and injuries
2. Minimize damage to structures and property, as well as minimizing interruption of essential services
and activities
3. Protect the environment
4. Promote hazard mitigation as an integrated public policy and as a standard business practice
Goals from the City of Azusa General Plan, 2004
Geologic Hazards
➢ GOAL 1 – Ensure the continued functioning of essential (critical, sensitive and high -occupancy)
facilities following a disaster; help prevent loss of life from the failure of critical and sensitive facilities
in an earthquake; and help prevent major problems for post -disaster response, such as difficult or
hazardous evacuations or rescues, numerous injuries, and major cleanup or decontamination of
hazardous materials.
Hazardous Structures
➢ Goal 2 – Minimize to the greatest extent feasible the loss of life, serious injuries, and major social and
economic disruption caused by the collapse of, or severe damage to, vulnerable structures (e.g.,
buildings, bridges, water storage facilities, key railroad components) resulting from an earthquake.
Flooding and Drainage
➢ GOAL 3 Protect lives and property and ensure that structures proposed for sites located on flood plains
subject to the 100-year flood are provided adequate protection from floods while preserving as open
space in those areas that cannot be mitigated for flood hazard.
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Emergency Preparedness and Education
➢ GOAL 4 – During a disaster, provide an effective emergency response that limits the loss of lif e and
curtails property damage and social dislocation (i.e. homelessness); enhances emergency preparedness
through community education and self-help programs; and minimize to the greatest extent feasible
serious damage and injuries through effective hazard mitigation.
Post-Disaster Reconstruction
➢ GOAL 5 – Encourage the preparation of a plan to facilitate the rapid and effective recovery of the city
following an earthquake. identify alternative financing sources for the repair and reconstruction of
disaster related damage.
Goals from the 2016 County of Los Angeles Strategic Fire Plan
Vision: A natural environment that is more resilient and man-made assets which are more resistant to the
occurrence and effects of wildland fire through local, state, federal, and private partnerships.
Goals:
1. Identify and evaluate wildland fire hazards and recognize life, property and natural resource assets at
risk, including watershed, habitat, social and other values of functioning ecosystems. Facilitate the sharing
of all analyses and data collection across all ownerships for consistency in type and kind.
2. Articulate and promote the concept of land use planning as it relates to fire risk and individual landowner
objectives and responsibilities.
3. Support and participate in the collaborative development and implementation of wildland fire protection
plans and other local, county and regional plans that address fire protection and landowner objectives.
4. Increase awareness, knowledge and actions implemented by individuals and communities to reduce
human loss and property damage from wildland fires. Actions can include creation of defensible space and
other fuel reduction activities, educating homeowners about fire prevention, and encouraging fire safe
building standards.
5. Develop a method to integrate fire and fuels management practices with landowner priorities and multiple
jurisdictional efforts within local, state and federal responsibility areas.
6. Determine the level of fire suppression resources necessary to protect the values and assets at risk
identified during planning processes.
7. Address post-fire responsibilities for natural resource recovery, including watershed protection,
reforestation and ecosystem restoration.
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Goals Development
You will each be given 3 sticky notes. On each note you will write what you think the goals for this
mitigation planning effort should be. To get you started, provided below are possible goals for this
mitigation plan. You may reword these or develop your own. These goal statements should serve as
examples. It is vital that our Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee establish its own goals. Use one note
for each goal. The purpose of the goal development is to reach a consensus on plan goals.
➢ Minimize risk and vulnerability from natural hazards
➢ Increase communities’ awareness of vulnerability to hazards
➢ Increase the use of shared resources
➢ Improve communities’ capabilities to mitigate losses
➢ Maintain coordination of disaster plans with changing DHS/FEMA needs
➢ Maintain FEMA eligibility/position jurisdictions for grant funding
➢ Maintain/enhance the flood mitigation program to provide 200/500-year flood protection
➢ Maintain current service levels
➢ Provide protection for existing buildings from hazards
➢ Provide protection for future development from hazards
➢ Provide protection for natural and cultural resources from hazard impacts
➢ Provide protection for people’s lives from hazards
➢ Provide protection for public health
➢ Provide protection for critical services (fire, police, etc.) from hazard impacts
➢ Provide protection for critical lifeline utilities from hazard impacts
➢ Reduce exposure to hazard related losses
➢ Reduce the number of emergency incidents
➢ Make better use of technology
When done, we will:
➢ Pin/tape them to the wall/easel-chart and arrange them by category
➢ Combine and reword them into 3-4 goals for the plan.
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Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategy Meetings
Day 2
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January 2019
Mitigation Strategy: Actions
Mitigation actions are specific projects and activities that help achieve the goals and accomplish risk
reduction in the community.
Categories of Mitigation Measures
PREVENTION: Preventive measures are designed to keep the problem from occurring or getting worse.
Their objective is to ensure that future development is not exposed to damage and does not increase damage
to other properties.
➢ Planning
➢ Zoning
➢ Open Space Preservation
➢ Land Development Regulations
✓ Subdivision regulations
✓ Building Codes
• Fire-Wise Construction
✓ Floodplain development regulations
✓ Geologic Hazard Areas development regulations (for roads too!)
➢ Storm Water Management
➢ Fuels Management, Fire-Breaks
EMERGENCY SERVICES: protect people during and after a disaster. A good emergency services
program addresses all hazards. Measures include:
➢ Warning (flooding, tornadoes, winter storms, geologic hazards, fire)
✓ NOAA Weather Radio
✓ Sirens
✓ “Reverse 911” (Emergency Notification System)
➢ Emergency Response
✓ Evacuation & Sheltering
✓ Communications
✓ Emergency Planning
• Activating the EOC (emergency management)
• Closing streets or bridges (police or public works)
• Shutting off power to threatened areas (utility company)
• Holding/releasing children at school (school district)
• Ordering an evacuation (mayor)
• Opening emergency shelters (Red Cross)
• Monitoring water levels (engineering)
• Security and other protection measures (police)
➢ Critical Facilities Protection (Buildings or locations vital to the response and recovery effort, such as
police/fire stations, hospitals, sewage treatment plants/lift stations, power substations)
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✓ Buildings or locations that, if damaged, would create secondary disasters, such as hazardous
materials facilities and nursing homes
✓ Lifeline Utilities Protection
➢ Post-Disaster Mitigation
➢ Building Inspections
✓ ID mitigation opportunities & funding before reconstruction
PROPERTY PROTECTION: Property protection measures are used to modify buildings subject to
damage rather than to keep the hazard away. A community may find these to be inexpensive measures
because often they are implemented by or cost-shared with property owners. Many of the measures do not
affect the appearance or use of a building, which makes them particularly appropriate for historical sites
and landmarks.
➢ Retrofitting/disaster proofing
✓ Floods
• Wet/Dry floodproofing (barriers, shields, backflow valves)
• Relocation/Elevation
• Acquisition
• Retrofitting
✓ High Winds/Tornadoes
• Safe Rooms
• Securing roofs and foundations with fasteners and tie-downs
• Strengthening garage doors and other large openings
✓ Winter Storms
• Immediate snow/ice removal from roofs, tree limbs
• “Living” snow fences
✓ Geologic Hazards (Landslides, earthquakes, sinkholes)
• Anchoring, bracing, shear walls
• Dewatering sites, agricultural practices
• Catch basins
✓ Drought
• Improve water supply (transport/storage/conservation)
• Remove moisture competitive plants (Tamarisk/Salt Cedar)
• Water Restrictions/Water Saver Sprinklers/Appliances
• Grazing on CRP lands (no overgrazing-see Noxious Weeds)
• Create incentives to consolidate/connect water services
• Recycled wastewater on golf courses
✓ Wildfire, Grassfires
• Replacing building components with fireproof materials
• Roofing, screening
• Create “Defensible Space”
• Installing spark arrestors
• Fuels Modification
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✓ Noxious Weeds/Insects
• Mowing
• Spraying
• Replacement planting
• Stop overgrazing
• Introduce natural predators
➢ Insurance
NATURAL RESOURCE PROTECTION: Natural resource protection activities are generally aimed at
preserving (or in some cases restoring) natural areas. In so doing, these activities enable the naturally
beneficial functions of floodplains and watersheds to be better realized. These natural and beneficial
floodplain functions include the following:
➢ storage of floodwaters
➢ absorption of flood energy
➢ reduction in flood scour
➢ infiltration that absorbs overland flood flow
➢ groundwater recharge
➢ removal/filtering of excess nutrients, pollutants, and sediments from floodwaters
➢ habitat for flora and fauna
➢ recreational and aesthetic opportunities
Methods of protecting natural resources include:
➢ Wetlands Protection
➢ Riparian Area/Habitat Protection/Threatened-Endangered Species
➢ Erosion & Sediment Control
➢ Best Management Practices
Best management practices (“BMPs”) are measures that reduce nonpoint source pollutants that enter the
waterways. Nonpoint source pollutants come from non-specific locations. Examples of nonpoint source
pollutants are lawn fertilizers, pesticides, and other farm chemicals, animal wastes, oils from street surfaces
and industrial areas and sediment from agriculture, construction, mining and forestry. These pollutants are
washed off the ground’s surface by stormwater and flushed into receiving storm sewers, ditches and
streams. BMPs can be implemented during construction and as part of a project’s design to permanently
address nonpoint source pollutants. There are three general categories of BMPs:
5. Avoidance: setting construction projects back from the stream.
6. Reduction: Preventing runoff that conveys sediment and other water-borne pollutants, such as planting
proper vegetation and conservation tillage.
7. Cleanse: Stopping pollutants after they are en route to a stream, such as using grass drainageways that
filter the water and retention and detention basins that let pollutants settle to the bottom before they are
drained
➢ Dumping Regulations
➢ Set-back regulations/buffers
City of Azusa C-19
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
➢ Fuels Management
➢ Water Use Restrictions
➢ Landscape Management
➢ Weather Modification
STRUCTURAL: Projects that have traditionally been used by communities to control flows and water
surface elevations. Structural projects keep flood waters away from an area. They are usually designed by
engineers and managed or maintained by public works staff. These measures are popular with many
because they “stop” flooding problems. However, structural projects have several important shortcomings
that need to be kept in mind when considering them for flood hazard mitigation:
➢ They are expensive, sometimes requiring capital bond issues and/or cost sharing with Federal agencies,
such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
➢ They disturb the land and disrupt natural water flows, often destroying habitats or requiring
Environmental Assessments.
➢ They are built to a certain flood protection level that can be exceeded by a larger flood, causing
extensive damage.
➢ They can create a false sense of security when people protected by a structure believe that no flood can
ever reach them.
➢ They require regular maintenance to ensure that they continue to provide their design protection level.
Structural measures include:
➢ Detention/Retention structures
➢ Erosion and Sediment Control
➢ Basins/Low-head Weirs
➢ Channel Modifications
➢ Culvert resizing/replacement/Maintenance
➢ Levees and Floodwalls
➢ Anchoring, grading, debris basins (for landslides)
➢ Fencing (for snow, sand, wind)
➢ Drainage System Maintenance
➢ Reservoirs (for flood control, water storage, recreation, agriculture)
➢ Diversions
➢ Storm Sewers
PUBLIC INFORMATION: A successful hazard mitigation program involves both the public and private
sectors. Public information activities advise property owners, renters, businesses, and local officials about
hazards and ways to protect people and property from these hazards. These activities can motivate people
to take protection
➢ Hazard Maps and Data
➢ Outreach Projects (mailings, media, web, speakers, displays)
➢ Library Resources
➢ Real Estate Disclosure
➢ Environmental Education
City of Azusa C-20
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Mitigation Strategy: Action Plan
The mitigation action plan describes how the mitigation actions will be implemented, including how those
actions will be prioritized, administered, and incorporated into the community’s existing planning
mechanism. Each participating jurisdiction must have a mitigation actions and an action plan specific to
that jurisdiction and its priority hazards and vulnerabilities.
Mitigation Criteria
For use in selecting and prioritizing Proposed Mitigation Measures
1. STAPLEE
Social: Does the measure treat people fairly? (different groups, different generations)
➢ Community Acceptance
➢ Effect on Segment of Population
➢ Social Benefits
Technical: Will it work? (Does it solve the problem? Is it feasible?)
➢ Technical Feasibility
➢ Reduce Community Risk
➢ Long Tem Solution/Sustainable
➢ Secondary Impacts
Administrative: Do you have the capacity to implement & manage project?
➢ Staffing
➢ Funding Allocated
➢ Maintenance/Operations
Political: Who are the stakeholders? Did they get to participate? Is there public support? Is political
leadership willing to support?
➢ Political Support
➢ Local Champion
➢ Public Support
➢ Achieves Multiple Objectives
➢ Supported by a broad array of Stakeholders
Legal: Does your organization have the authority to implement? Is it legal? Are there liability
implications?
➢ Existing Local Authority
➢ State Authority
➢ Potential Legal Challenges
City of Azusa C-21
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Economic: Is it cost-beneficial? Is there funding? Does it contribute to the local economy or
economic development?
➢ Benefit of Action
➢ Cost of Action
➢ Cost Effective/Economic Benefits
➢ Economically Viable
➢ Outside Funding Required
Environmental: Does it comply with Environmental regulations?
➢ Effect on Land/Water
➢ Effect on Endangered Species
➢ Effect on Cultural Resources
➢ Effect on Hazmat sites
➢ Consistent with Community Environmental Goals
➢ Consistent with Environmental Laws
➢ Environmental Benefits
2. SUSTAINABLE DISASTER RECOVERY
➢ Quality of Life
➢ Social Equity
➢ Hazard Mitigation
➢ Economic Development
➢ Environmental Protection/Enhancement
➢ Community Participation
3. SMART GROWTH PRINCIPLES
➢ Infill versus Sprawl
➢ Efficient Use of Land Resources
➢ Full Use of Urban Resources
➢ Mixed Uses of Land
➢ Transportation Options
➢ Detailed, Human-Scale Design
4. OTHER
➢ Does measure address area with highest risk?
➢ Does measure protect …
✓ The largest # of people exposed to risk?
✓ The largest # of buildings?
✓ The largest # of jobs?
✓ The largest tax income?
✓ The largest average annual loss potential?
✓ The area impacted most frequently?
City of Azusa C-22
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
✓ Critical Infrastructure (access, power, water, gas, telecommunications)
➢ Timing of Available funding
➢ Visibility of Project
➢ Community Credibility
City of Azusa C-23
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Mitigation Action Prioritization Instructions
Our Team recommendations are listed on flip-chart paper around the room.
You each have 3 sets of colored dots:
➢ 3 red dots
➢ 3 blue dots
➢ 3 green dots
The red dots are for high priority (5 points each)
The blue dots are for medium priority (3 points each)
The green dots are for low priority (1 point each)
Place your dots on the recommendations, using the different colors to indicate your priority. You may use
as many of your dots, of any color, on any recommendation --- or you may spread them out using as few of
your dots as you wish. The dots will indicate the consensus of the team.
Use your list of criteria to help you make your determinations.
After the totals are counted, we will discuss them further to confirm or change any of the results as we see
fit.
City of Azusa C-24
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Mitigation Action Worksheet
Mitigation
Action/Project Title:
Hazards Addressed:
Issue/Background:
Project Description:
Other Alternatives:
Existing Planning
Mechanism(s)
through which Action
Will Be Implemented:
Responsible
Office/Partners:
Cost Estimate:
Benefits (Losses
Avoided):
Potential Funding:
Timeline:
Project Priority:
Worksheet completed
by:
Name and Title:
Phone:
City of Azusa C-25
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Azusa
Local Hazard Mitigation
Mitigation Strategy Meeting: Mitigation Actions v/1
August 16, 2017
Initial Goals
➢ Goal 1: Minimize risk and vulnerability of Azusa to natural hazards and protect lives and prevent
losses to property, public heath, economy, and the environment.
✓ Objective 1.1: Reduce the risk and vulnerability to the community from all identified hazards of
concern, with an emphasis on priority hazards, such as wildfire, flood, and earthquake.
✓ Objective 1.1: Provide protection for existing and future development.
✓ Objective 1.2: Provide protection for critical facilities, utilities, and services.
✓ Objective 1.3: Provide protection for natural resources and the environment.
➢ Goal 2: Increase community education, awareness, and preparedness to hazards of concern and
promote participation and action to reduce hazard-related losses.
✓ Objective 2.1: Improve resiliency from hazard events by increasing awareness and emphasizing
preparedness for city workers and residents.
✓ Objective 2.2: Inform and educate residents and businesses about all hazards they are exposed to,
where they occur, what they can do to mitigate exposure or damages.
✓ Objective 2.3: Make developers, builders, and the public aware that these mitigation measure are
cost effective and in their long-term best interest
✓ Objective 2.4: Increase use of technologies to better inform the public, before, during, and after an
emergency.
➢ Goal 3: Improve community’s capabilities to prevent/mitigate hazard-related losses and to be
prepared for, respond to, and recover from a disaster event.
✓ Objective 3.1: Continued improvements to emergency management capabilities to protect the
safety of all constituents, reduce losses, and speed community recovery.
✓ Objective 3.2: Make better use of technologies to enhance community preparedness and
readiness.
✓ Objective 3.3: Update, strengthen, and integrate community disaster preparedness, emergency
response, and recovery plans.
✓ Objective 3.4: Establish and coordinate departmental/agency policies and responsibilities for
hazard events through disaster planning and exercising
✓ Objective 3.5: Maintain community access to essential services and maintain current service
levels during a hazard event.
✓ Objective 3.6: Ensure availability of mutual aid resources and cooperation between all agencies.
✓ Objective 3.6: Promote hazard policies and standards in the Safety Element of the General Plan.
City of Azusa C-26
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Initial Mitigation Action Ratings
Responsible
Department/
Staff
Mitigation Action Title Hazards
Addressed
Points/
Worksheet
Status
Public awareness, education, outreach, and preparedness program
enhancements: Improve/Enhance public education, engagement, and
preparedness, response, and recovery program for all hazards (multi-
media, educate, messaging, target audiences; promote self-
responsibility; sustainable)
Multi-hazard 47
Planning
(Foster
Morrison to
complete
worksheet)
Incorporate LHMP Update by reference through board adoption into
the safety element of the General Plan Update
Multi-hazard N/A*
IT Implement GIS enhancements (to include hazards information, a
critical facilities layer, etc); Make interactive so public can evaluate
hazards in context of their homes
Emergency
Services/Multi-
hazard
19
OES Develop EOP Update with Annexes Emergency
Services/Multi-
hazard
8
Achieve Storm-Ready certification for City Emergency
Services/Multi-
hazard
9
Evaluate technologies, apps, etc. for access to real time weather and
disaster data. (e.g., NOAA weather radios, Pulsepoint, others?)
Emergency
Services/Multi-
hazard
6
Conduct Citywide evaluation of technology improvements for disaster
preparedness, prevention, mitigation, response, and recovery
Emergency
Services/Multi-
hazard
N/A*
Valve replacements to lower water levels more quickly Dam Failure 6
Spillway inspections and modifications Dam Failure 3
Construct better and secondary access routes to better manage
facilities
Dam Failure 0
Telemetry upgrades Dam Failure 5
Dredging Dam Failure 3
Continue Conservation Measures Drought &
Water Supply
6
Continue Rebate Programs (e.g., Drip program) Drought &
Water Supply
0
Update and Implement residential parkway guide for use of drought
tolerant landscape
Drought &
Water Supply
0
Update and Implement Urban Water Management Plan Drought &
Water Supply
0
Evaluate use/install Wifi meters Drought &
Water Supply
0
City of Azusa C-27
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Responsible
Department/
Staff
Mitigation Action Title Hazards
Addressed
Points/
Worksheet
Status
Conduct soft story and pre-1976 tilt-up building inventories and
identify retrofit projects and those structures to be demolished
Earthquake &
Liquefaction
18
Public facility and critical facility inventory and retrofits Earthquake &
Liquefaction
28
Develop Climate Adaptation Plan and implement resulting climate
adaptation strategies
Climate
Change
N/A*
Implement projects for Unmet Drainage Needs (UDN). City to
provide County with top 3 drainage issues to prioritize and provide
support and possible cost sharing
Flood 15
Identify and focus projects to address drainage issues, as well as
environmental and conservation issues
Flood 0
Implement Stormwater Master Plan Flood 0
Tree evaluation and maintenance projects Drought,
Heavy Rains
and Storms
9
Undergrounding of utilities Heavy Rains
and Storms
0
Drainage channels – maintenance and cleanout Heavy Rains
and Storms
11
Use of post fire K Rails in key areas Landslides,
Debris Flows,
and Mud
Flows
0
Monitor, clear & maintain drainage facilities and floodways Landslides,
Debris Flows,
and Mud
Flows
0
Identify and investigate issues of concern Levee Failure 5
Implement post fire burn area debris flow program – non federal
lands
Wildfire 17
Implement post fire burn area debris flow program –federal lands Wildfire 9
Riverbed vegetation management and habitat improvement (include
non-native species removal)
Wildfire 21
Update City data to align with new Cal Fire, Fire Hazard Severity
Zone Data & Maps
Wildfire 8
Identify and implement tree mortality projects Wildfire 8
Public outreach and education Wildfire 6
Continue Brush land Clearance program Wildfire 10
Continue fuels modification plan review project Wildfire 2
Continue vegetation management projects Wildfire 14
Establish CERT program Wildfire 23
Conduct multi-agency brush drills/exercises for local fire fighters Wildfire 0
City of Azusa C-28
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Responsible
Department/
Staff
Mitigation Action Title Hazards
Addressed
Points/
Worksheet
Status
Conduct evacuation exercises Wildfire 8
Establish Fire Safe Councils and promote firewise communities (e.g.,
Mt Cove, Rosedale,
Wildfire 7
Develop local CWPP Wildfire 0
Other wildfire projects? Wildfire N/A
City of Azusa D-1
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Appendix D Adoption Resolution
Note to Reviewers: When this plan has been reviewed and approved pending adoption by FEMA Region
IX, the adoption resolutions will be signed by the participating jurisdictions and added to this appendix. A
model resolution is provided below:
Resolution # ______
Adopting the Azusa Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Whereas, the City of Azusa recognizes the threat that natural hazards pose to people and property within
our community; and
Whereas, undertaking hazard mitigation actions will reduce the potential for harm to people and property
from future hazard occurrences; and
Whereas, the U.S. Congress passed the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (“Disaster Mitigation Act”)
emphasizing the need for pre-disaster mitigation of potential hazards;
Whereas, the Disaster Mitigation Act made available hazard mitigation grants to state and local
governments;
Whereas, an adopted Local Hazard Mitigation Plan is required as a condition of future funding for
mitigation projects under multiple FEMA pre- and post-disaster mitigation grant programs; and
Whereas, the City of Azusa fully participated in the FEMA-prescribed mitigation planning process to
prepare this local hazard mitigation plan; and
Whereas, the California Office of Emergency Services and Federal Emergency Management Agency,
Region IX officials have reviewed the City of Azusa Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and approved it
contingent upon this official adoption of the participating governing body;
Whereas, the City of Azusa desires to comply with the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act and to
augment its emergency planning efforts by formally adopting the City of Azusa Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan;
Whereas, adoption by the governing body for the City of Azusa, demonstrates the jurisdiction’s
commitment to fulfilling the mitigation goals and objectives outlined in this Local Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Whereas, adoption of this legitimacies the plan and authorizes responsible agencies to carry out their
responsibilities under the plan.
Now, therefore, be it resolved, that the City of Azusa adopts the City of Azusa Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan as an official plan; and
City of Azusa D-2
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Be it resolved, that the City of Azusa adopts the City of Azusa Local Hazard Mitigation Plan by reference
into the safety element of their general plan in accordance with the requirements of AB 2140, and
Be it further resolved, the City of Azusa will submit this adoption resolution to the California Office of
Emergency Services and FEMA Region IX officials to enable the plan’s final approval in accordance with
the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and to establish conformance with the requirements
of AB 2140.
Passed:
(date)
Certifying Official
City of Azusa E-1
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Appendix E Critical Facilities
Table E-1 City of Azusa Critical Facility Inventory and Hazards Summary
Name Address Critical Facility
Category
Flood Zone Fire Severity Liquefaction
Zone
Landslide Zone Dam Inundation
Area
Police 725 N Alameda
Ave
Essential Services 0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Fire Station 32 605 N Angeleno
Ave
Essential Services 0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
City Hall 213 E Foothill
Blvd
Essential Services 0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Azusa Public Works 809 N Angeleno
Ave
Essential Services 0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Railroad Overpass 500 W Foothill
Blvd
Essential Services 0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Slauson Middle School 340 W 5th St At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Dalton Elementary 500 E 10th St At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Hodge Elementary 700 W 11th St At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
City of Azusa E-2
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Name Address Critical Facility
Category
Flood Zone Fire Severity Liquefaction
Zone
Landslide Zone Dam Inundation
Area
Saint Frances of Rome
School
734 N Pasadena
Ave
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Silverado Sierra Vista
Car Community
125 W Sierra
Madre Ave
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Soldano Senior Village 450 N Soldano
Ave
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Little Gems Learing &
Daycare
412 N San
Gabriel Ave
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Azusa Montessori
Academy
405 N Azusa
Ave
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Within
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Fire Station 97 846 Juniper
Ridge
Essential Services 0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Outside of Dam
Inundation Areas
210 Fwy Overpass 200 S Azusa Ave Essential Services 0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Mountain View
Elementary
201 N Vernon
Ave
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Paramount
Elementary
409 W
Paramount St
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Azusa High School 240 N Cerritos
Ave
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
San Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Foothill Middle
School
151 N Fenimore
Ave
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
San Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Magnolia Elementary 945 E Nearfield
St
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Outside of Dam
Inundation Areas
City of Azusa E-3
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
January 2019
Name Address Critical Facility
Category
Flood Zone Fire Severity Liquefaction
Zone
Landslide Zone Dam Inundation
Area
Gladstone Street
Elementary
1040 E
Gladstone St
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Outside of Dam
Inundation Areas
WR Powell
Elementary
1035 E Mauna
Loa Ave
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Outside of Dam
Inundation Areas
Lee Elementary 550 N Cerritos
Avee
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
San Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Valleydale Elementary 700 S Lark Ellen
Ave
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
San Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Murray Elementary 505 E Renwick
Rd
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Outside of Dam
Inundation Areas
Christbridge Academy 405 S Azusa Ave At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
San Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Light & Life Christian
School
777 E Alosta
Ave
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
San Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Edgewood Center 200 W
Paramount St
At Risk
Populations
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
IDR Environmental
Services
100 S Irwindale
Ave
Hazardous
Materials Facilities
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Waste Management 1211 W
Gladstone St
Hazardous
Materials Facilities
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Azusa Land
Reclamation
1211 W
Gladstone St
Hazardous
Materials Facilities
0.2% Annual
Chance Flood
Non-Very High Outside of
Liquefaction Zone
Outside of
Landslide Zone
Morris Dam and San
Gabriel Dam
Inundation Areas
Source: City of Azusa GIS