Drivers Face Potholes Along Rain-Battered Commutes

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — This week's El Niño-fueled storms aren't just flooding the roads - they're also tearing them up.

As flooded roadways began to clear Thursday, drivers across Southern California were confronted with big potholes from Los Angeles to Riverside.

Several small breaks were reported on La Cienega Boulevard and Rodeo Drive, along with a few on the 210 Freeway, according to KNX 1070 NEWSRADIO traffic reports. Crews were already making repairs on the 215 in Riverside, where earlier potholes forced a temporary closure.

Caltrans spokesperson Laura Wonder told KNX 1070 while it's normal for potholes to form during heavy rain seasons, it could take some time to fix all the damage.

"We have to go in and fill those potholes temporarily when it dries out," Wonder said. "The key is always drive slowly, carefully, vigilantly, and leave some room 'cause you might have a pothole."

Drivers who sustained damage by a pothole or divot can file a claim with Caltrans on their website.

L.A. residents were asked to report any new or existing potholes to 311.