April 15, 2026

LOS ANGELES, CA – Los Angeles County, with support from the Office of Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, the Topanga Coalition for Emergency Preparedness(TCEP), the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management, will conduct a community evacuation drill in Topanga Canyon on Saturday, March 18, including a test of the Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) system and Alert LA County notifications.

At 9 AM, a test Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) will be sent to subscribed users across Topanga Canyon zones. An Alert LA County notification will also be issued to individuals registered within the affected areas. These messages will clearly indicate that this is only a test.

“In Topanga Canyon emergency preparedness is a way of life—because in an emergency, every second counts,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “This drill is an important step to help Topanga residents act quickly and safely if evacuation is needed. We encourage the community to participate, ask questions, and take this opportunity to get prepared. In order to successfully communicate with residents in the drill, please ensure your cell phone’s test alerts are turned on.”

Following the alert, resident check-in will be available from 9 AM to 12 PM at King Gillette Ranch for those participating in the drill. County staff and partner agencies will be on-site to support residents, answer questions, and provide information about evacuation procedures and preparedness.

“Topanga is a beautiful but perilous paradise, something we all value and share. By working together with our emergency response agencies, we as a community can be better prepared for wildfires and other emergencies,” said James Grasso, President of the Topanga Coalition for Emergency Preparedness. “This Evacuation Drill reflects that commitment, helping residents, families, and neighbors strengthen their readiness and support one another when it matters most. That is why we are holding the Topanga Emergency Evacuation Drill. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in keeping our community safe.”

The exercise may include visible emergency activity in the area, including personnel and traffic coordination. There is no life-threatening emergency.

Residents are encouraged to register for Alert LA County notifications. Residents should also ensure WEA alerts, including test alerts, are enabled on their mobile devices, review their household emergency plans in advance, and consult the “Topanga Evacuation Guide” mailed to residents.

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