Southern California received intermittent showers on Sunday, offering some relief to firefighters battling destructive wildfires but also raising concerns about potential mudslides. The National Weather Service warned that some areas could experience more than half an inch of rain per hour, with showers expected to last until Tuesday. As a result, regions affected by recent wildfires, such as the Palisades, Franklin, Eaton, Bridge, and Hughes fires, were placed under a flood watch.
The primary concern is the increased risk of mudslides in burn scar areas, which have lost vital vegetation and trees that typically help stabilize the land. AccuWeather meteorologist Jacob Hinson explained that these areas are especially vulnerable to mudslides when heavy rain occurs. Homes that previously survived the fires are now at risk of being damaged or destroyed by mudslides.
Residents in affected areas are on edge, including Joan Herman from Pacific Palisades, who expressed her concern over the rain, saying, “Our house survived but now we’re worried about the rain.” The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has issued a warning, noting that mudslides can occur suddenly and cause significant destruction, including the potential to sweep away people, vehicles, and structures.
Authorities are advising residents to stay updated on weather forecasts and emergency alerts, prepare an emergency plan with an evacuation route, and keep essential supplies such as a battery-powered radio, flashlight, and first-aid kit available.
So far, the wildfires have scorched approximately 90 square miles, according to CalFire. By late Sunday afternoon, mudslides had already caused road closures in areas like Topanga Canyon, where mudflows affected sections of the Pacific Coast Highway. The Los Angeles Fire Department reported rescuing several motorists trapped by mudflows, although no injuries were reported.
The forecast also includes possible thunder and hail, with some mountainous areas expected to receive up to 3 inches of rain, further heightening concerns about mudslides.
