Clogged storm drains plaguing flood-ridden areas in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The cleanup continued in a Boyle Heights neighborhood after sudden rains swallowed cars and left behind a muddy mess.

The big problem: Storm drains clogged with trash and debris.

Officials said a mattress clogged a catch basin on Bernal Avenue, causing dozens of cars to go under water and some basements to flood on Monday.

With El Nino arriving this winter, officials with the Los Angeles Public Works Department are asking neighbors to be diligent to prevent flooding.

You are asked to search your yard for things that could potentially be washed away and block storm drains.

Also, you can check the catch basins on your street. If they are blocked or clogged, you can call public works at (323) 342-6006.