Throughout history, the residents of Sierra Madre have dealt with various natural hazards affecting the area. Photos, journal entries, and newspapers as far back as the 1800's show residents of the area battling with earthquakes, wildfires, landslides, flooding and wind storms.

It is impossible to predict exactly when these disasters will occur, or the extent to which they will affect the City. However, with careful planning and collaboration among public agencies, private sector organizations, and citizens within the community, it is possible to minimize the losses that can result from these natural disasters.

Recent Large Scale Destruction

Bobcat Fire 2020
The Bobcat Fire, which ignited on September 6, 2020, posed a significant threat to the city of Sierra Madre. On September 13, as the fire approached the foothill communities, the city declared a state of emergency. Residents near the border shared with Arcadia were ordered to evacuate, though only 32 homes were directly affected by the order. The entire city remained under an evacuation warning as officials closely monitored the fire's progress. By September 19, the immediate threat had subsided, and evacuation warning was lifted. Years have gone by. The fire's aftermath brought ongoing challenges, as the burn scar increased the risk of flooding, debris flows, and mudslides, especially during storms.

Sierra Madre Windstorm 2011
Fierce windstorms battered the city with 140 mph gusts of wind in November 2011. Residents experienced uprooted trees, fallen limbs that blocked streets, tons of debris, and power outages that lasted almost a week. The City paid nearly $700,000 in damages and did not receive any state or federal aid for the 2011 windstorm.

Santa Anita Fire and Mudflows of 2008
Over 550 acres of land burned in April of 2008, costing approximately $2.8 million in damages and mitigation.  In that same year, a May 22 mudslide cost Sierra Madre approximately $50,000 in damages. In response to the Santa Anita fire, a $2.4 million project dedicated to the emergency construction of mudflow protection in Sierra Madre was initiated by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works.

Sierra Madre Earthquake of 1991
The damage to City of Sierra Madre businesses, residences, and infrastructure was estimated at about $12.5 million. The City estimates that the earthquake event directly or indirectly affected 80% of the City's 10,650 residents.