Angelenos have erupted after the Pacific Palisades reservoir that wasempty during the deadly wildfiresis once again empty for maintenance.
The Santa Ynez Reservoir, a key water source perched above the coastal neighborhood, has been drained as part of a $19.5 million project to replace its aging floating cover,the LA Times reported.
While officials say the work is necessary to maintain drinking water safety, residents arguethe timing could not be worse.
The absence is especially concerning because it was also empty during the January 2025 Palisades Fire, when flames destroyed nearly 7,000 buildings and killed 12 people.
Firefighters struggled as water pressure dropped in hillside hydrants.
High demand quickly drained three one million gallon tanks faster than they could be refilled,leaving crews without enough water.
The 117-million-gallon reservoir — a key backup source — was also empty for repairs, worsening the problem. Now, with temperatures rising, thecommunity fears history is repeating itself.
“It’s a failure to recognize that there is value to this community to have the reservoir full,” Maryam Zar, head of the Palisades Recovery Coalition said.
“It’s incredible to me that after the experience we went through [with the Palisades fire] there is still no recognition that this reservoir should be filled to the gills, whether or not it’s potable.”
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