Officials warn residents to prepare for El Nino

GLENDORA, Calif. (KABC) -- Officials are warning residents that now is the time to get prepared because if El Nino hits the way many experts believe it will, the rainy season this year could be catastrophic.

There are predictions that El Nino could bring as much as 35 inches of rain during the upcoming winter season.

"We could see upwards of 200 percent of average rainfall event," said Bill Croyle of the Cal8ifornia Department of Water Resources. "We do expect an extremely wet season in Southern California."

Caltrans said last week's mudslides that closed Interstate 5 over the Grapevine and Highway 58 near Tehachapi were a preview of what may come this winter.

With the potential for extreme rainfall this season, burn areas will need to be prepared for potential mudslides.

"Make sure you heed any warnings of local officials," said Chief Scott Edson of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. "If we're in your area asking you to evacuate because we're concerned for the area, please do your best to respond to our request so that you don't become part of the problem."