The Downfall of the Los Angeles River

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The great Los Angeles flood led to the government granting authority to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1936 to build flood control measures along the LA River. However, it was the devastating 1938 flood that sealed the fate of the river, causing $1.7 billion in damages and around 115 fatalities. This event marked the end of the natural state of the river, as it submerged 30,000 square miles, leading to widespread destruction. Notably, the 1938 flood not only impacted the city's infrastructure and caused numerous casualties but also disrupted the Oscars event, forcing a three-day postponement and showcasing the tipping point for Los Angeles residents.

When you hear the word "river," you probably picture a majestic body of water flowing through a natural habitat. Well, the LA River looks nothing like that. Most people who see it probably mistake it for a giant storm drain. It's a deep trapezoidal channel with steep concrete walls, and a flat concrete bottom. Los Angeles was founded around this river. But decades ago it was confined in concrete so that, for better or worse, the city could become the sprawling metropolis that it is today. All these years later the county is still grappling with the consequences of those actions.

Reported by Gillian Jacobs, guest hosted by 99PI producer, Vivian Le.

A River Runs Through Los Angeles

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