April 22, 2026

LOS ANGELES, CA  — As we celebrate Earth Day, Los Angeles County captured a staggering 120.3 billion gallons of stormwater during the 2025-26 storm season, which ended on April 15,2026 —a dramatic increase over last year’s total of 11.9 billion gallons. Water captured during the season’s heavy storms will recharge the County’s groundwater aquifers with enough water to meet the needs of 3 million people for an entire year.

Since the start of storm season in Oct. 2025, Downtown Los Angeles recorded 16.9 inches of rainfall—110% of its annual average. By contrast, the previous storm season brought just 6.6 inches of rain, less than half the annual average of 15.4 inches. Stormwater captured in the County’s reservoirs and spreading grounds measured an astounding 185% of average for this time of year.

“Capturing more stormwater here in Los Angeles County is one of the most powerful opportunities we have right now to strengthen our local water supply,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “Investments in stormwater infrastructure allow us to store more of the rainfall our region receives and put it to use for our communities. Every gallon we capture reduces our reliance on imported water, protects affordability of future supply, and helps build more resilient communities as we adapt to our changing climate.”

As part of its year-round commitment to water resilience, LA County Public Works partners with agencies across the region to increase stormwater capture. The County plans to expand innovative solutions like forecast-informed reservoir operations, strategic infrastructure upgrades, and regular sediment removal from reservoirs to maximize storage. 

“This season’s rainfall translated into a significant increase in stormwater capture, which reflects the performance of the County’s flood control infrastructure, as well as our coordinated stormwater management efforts,” said Mark Pestrella, P.E. director of LA County Public Works. “Continued maintenance, including sediment removal, remains critical to preserving system capacity and ensuring our residents have access to safe, clean, and reliable water resources.”

In May, Supervisor Horvath will convene the County’s third annual Water Summit, bringing together regional water leaders to advance collaboration and support implementation of strategies that strengthen long-term water resilience.

For more information about stormwater capture and water management in Los Angeles County, visit WaterforLA.com.

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