URGENT UPDATE: A powerful winter storm wreaked havoc on Altadena’s Mariposa Junction, flooding several local businesses just days before the New Year. The storm, which struck from December 23 to 24, 2025, has been recorded as Southern California’s wettest Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, leaving behind significant damage and prompting an outpouring of community support.
Business owners, still recovering from the devastating Eaton fire nearly a year ago, faced yet another setback as water poured into storefronts. The storm resulted in flooded ceilings, damaged merchandise, and hours of relentless cleanup work. Manisa Ianakiev, owner of Sidecca, described the overwhelming scene as she and fellow business owners began sweeping water out of their businesses on December 24.
“It’s a lot,” Ianakiev stated. “We just restocked everything after the fire, and now this.” Sidecca, a women-owned apparel store, had celebrated its reopening just last month, hoping for a bustling holiday season.
In response to the disaster, community members quickly mobilized, offering buckets, tarps, and mops. The store has initiated a “Here We Go Again” fund to assist with recovery efforts. Owner Adriana Molina expressed gratitude for the community’s support: “I really appreciate the thoughtfulness of everyone,” she said.
The storm’s impact extended beyond Sidecca. Ben McGinty, owner of McGinty’s Gallery at the End of the World, reported significant water damage but noted that his gallery would reopen on December 27 thanks to prompt repairs by their landlord, Joey Galloway. “We knew the rains were strong. There’s been a lot of mopping,” McGinty remarked.
Despite the challenges, the resilient spirit of Altadena’s business community shone through. Debbie Collins, owner of Ms. Dragon Print & Copy, reflected on the emotional toll the storm took, recalling the devastation from the Eaton fire that destroyed over 9,000 structures. “I’m doing fine compared to everyone else,” Collins stated, highlighting her commitment to supporting fellow local businesses.
As meteorologist Edgar McGregor reported, the heavy rains are expected to taper off by midnight on December 26, bringing a brief respite. “Rainfall totals have been lower than anticipated, with foothill areas experiencing between four to eight inches,” he added.
In the wake of this storm, local businesses are urging community members to support them. The Altadena Chamber of Commerce has encouraged shoppers to “Shop Altadena,” a rallying cry aimed at revitalizing the area after back-to-back disasters.
As cleanup efforts continue, the emotional strain on business owners and their employees remains palpable. “It’s been a tough year for us,” Collins said, echoing the sentiments of many in the community. “But we’re here to help each other.”
Residents can show their support by donating to recovery funds and visiting local businesses as they work to bounce back from this latest setback. The spirit of community resilience is strong in Altadena, and as the storm clouds clear, efforts to rebuild and revive are just beginning.
