Malibu schools closed again due to severe rainstorm hazards
- Malibu schools closed on Thursday, February 13, and continued to remain closed on Friday due to hazardous weather conditions.
- The powerful rainstorm raised concerns about mudslides and unsafe travel conditions in the region.
- Authorities prioritized the safety of students and staff, stating that road travel was unsafe and remote learning options would be provided.
In Southern California, significant consequences arose from a powerful rainstorm that led to the closure of all schools in Malibu on Thursday, February 13, and subsequently on Friday, February 14, 2025. Dr. Antonio Shelton, the Superintendent of the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District, announced that the closures were imperative due to the anticipated hazardous driving conditions brought on by the storm. Authorities expressed concerns regarding mudslides and debris flows that could pose serious risks, specifically near the Franklin Fire and Palisades Fire burn scars. The closure affected Webster Elementary, Malibu Elementary, Malibu Middle, and Malibu High schools. The storm began impacting the area with rain starting Wednesday morning, but the heaviest precipitation was expected to occur on Thursday. This prompted officials to preemptively close roads, including Malibu Canyon Road and parts of the Pacific Coast Highway, making it exceptionally difficult for staff and school buses to access the schools. Flash flood warnings were issued as early as Thursday, reflecting the critical safety risks associated with excessive rainfall and the resultant mudflows, rockslides, and debris on roadways. As Friday progressed, although the heaviest rainfall subsided, Dr. Shelton declared that the roads remained unsafe for travel, necessitating the continuation of the school closures. The storm's impact was felt not just in Malibu, but across Los Angeles County, with many roads affected and covered by mud. Families and staff were urged to adapt to these changes, as school administrators informed students about remote teaching and learning opportunities. Despite understanding the disruptions these closures might cause for families, district officials maintained that safety remained their priority, and they would continue to monitor conditions following the storm. The ongoing situation reflects a responsiveness to public safety in the face of extreme weather challenges, prioritizing student and staff well-being above all else.