Wait, The Palisades Reservoir Is Still Empty?

The giant drinking water reservoir in the Pacific Palisades highlands, that many Palisades fire victims believe could have supplied enough water to save their homes had it been filled in January, had to be drained again this month. Repairs to tears in its protective cover were made in March, 2025, but more leaks were found as the Santa Ynez Reservoir was refilled in the last weeks. The DWP says the next round of repairs should be quick and the reservoir back in service in May. Still unclear — is whether a full reservoir could have changed the outcome on January 7, when 3 smaller high-elevation supply tanks ran dry, and pumps could not refill them fast enough to supply water as the fire burned into the night.  Thanks for listening to The Leonard Files – Stay with us as we uncover the investigations from some of LA’s most challenging and intriguing moments. Subscribe now so you don’t miss the next episode of The Leonard Files.