Early Fall Storm Makes for a Messy Day in Hollywood

The first rain of the season made for an unusual day today in Hollywood.

The roads were rain soaked, and some ditches were flooded. Those who stepped outside to brave the elements were forced to endure heavy rain for most of the day and chilly temperatures. A few dedicated to fitness took their chances walking and jogging in Runyon Canyon.

Bettine Birge walks in Runyon Canyon three times a week. Donning rain gear, and a big umbrella, Birge said she is committed to keeping her routine despite the weather.

“People have to walk their dogs in the rain, so why not me come out,” she said. “I like to stay on schedule.”

It was a dog that brought Scott Rose out in this rainy day. He said his dog, Buddy, usually likes to eat crumbs left over by hikers on the sidewalk near Runyon Canyon’s entrance, but today, the pickings were slim. Rose took the weather in stride.

“I’m from Atlanta, so I don’t mind the rain that much,” Rose said.  

Los Angeles City Park Ranger Ernie Ybarra is at Runyon Canyon everyday. He said he spends most days making sure people follow the rules of the park.

“I educate people about what they’re doing wrong and right,” Ybarra said. “People don’t read the signs.”

However, with few people around today, he was more concerned about checking on weather-related problems in the area.

“I expect erosion later on,” he said.

He was also on the alert for the possibility of trees falling, he said.

The weather definitely had an impact on the number of tourists out and about at Hollywood & Highland. The sidewalks, usually filled with tourists, were easy to maneuver with fewer people walking around. Mann’s Chinese Theater, which is packed on most days, provided ample room today for taking pictures of the stars’ footprints and handprints in front of the theater.

Liron and Adi Agranti, sisters visiting from Israel, were less concerned about the Hollywood Walk of Fame than they were with finding a store that carried umbrellas.

“I like San Diego better,” Adi Agranti said. “It’s more authentic.”

They said the only reason they went out in the rain today is because it was their last day in town.

Erik Scott, spokesman for the Los Angeles Fire Department, said there were reports of flooding and an increase in traffic accidents. He warned that all drivers should make safety a priority on days like this.

“Firefighters encourage people to decrease speed and increase space (between) the vehicle in front of you,” Scott said. “Hands-free cell devices are important too.”

The Los Angeles Fire Department made ready-to-fill sandbags available for residents at all neighborhood fire stations, and sand and sandbags are also available at Bureau of Street Services locations in Hollywood.