Southern California braces for rain that could extinguish wildfires but trigger toxic mudslides.
Will they finally get help from Mother nature?
At a Glance
- Rain forecast for Southern California to aid firefighters but risks toxic ash runoff
- Los Angeles County crews reinforcing slopes and roads in fire-affected areas
- National Weather Service warns of potential localized cloudbursts causing mud flows
- Mayor Karen Bass issues executive order to expedite cleanup and mitigate environmental impacts
- Residents advised to wear protective gear during cleanup due to toxic ash in burn zones
Rain Brings Relief and Risk to Southern California
Southern California is preparing for a double-edged sword as rain approaches the region. While the precipitation promises relief for firefighters battling ongoing wildfires, it also brings the risk of toxic ash runoff from charred hillsides. The National Weather Service has issued a stark warning, stating that “the threat is high enough to prepare for the worst-case scenario.”
Los Angeles County crews have been working tirelessly to remove vegetation, shore up slopes, and reinforce roads in areas affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires. These preemptive measures aim to mitigate potential mudslides and debris flows that could result from the incoming rain. The forecast predicts less than an inch of rain, but localized cloudbursts pose a significant threat to recently burned areas.
Southern California rain helps firefighters but creates risk of toxic ash runoff https://t.co/mEq7WGcuys
— Voice of America (@VOANews) January 26, 2025
In response to the impending weather event, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has taken action. She issued an executive order to expedite cleanup efforts and mitigate environmental impacts from fire-related pollutants. But we’re yet to see if that action is enough – President Donald Trump himself met with Mayor Bass and told her that she isn’t doing enough, and that local people should be allowed to begin clearing their properties immediately.
But the coming storm could complicate cleanup efforts while also aiding firefighting efforts.
“While damaging debris flows are not the most likely outcome, there is still a lot of uncertainty with this storm,” the weather service office for Los Angeles said.
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has also approved emergency measures for flood-control infrastructure and sediment removal in fire-impacted areas. Fire crews and county workers are preparing communities by distributing sandbags, erecting barriers, and clearing drainage systems to minimize potential damage.
Residents in affected areas are being advised to exercise caution during cleanup efforts. The ash in burn zones contains hazardous materials such as pesticides, asbestos, and lead, making it crucial for individuals to wear protective gear when handling debris. This toxic runoff poses a significant threat to local waterways and ecosystems.
The potential for debris flows is a serious concern, especially given the tragic history of such events in the region. The 2018 Montecito mudslides, which resulted in 23 deaths, serve as a grim reminder of the devastation that can occur when heavy rains follow wildfires.
As the region prepares for rain, several wildfires continue to burn across Southern California. The Palisades Fire is now 81% contained, while the Eaton Fire has reached 95% containment. Progress is being made against the Hughes Fire in northern Los Angeles County, but the Border 2 Fire in San Diego County remains largely uncontained.
The incoming rain will end a near-record dry spell for Southern California, which has received less than 5% of average rainfall since October 1. Most of the region is currently experiencing “extreme drought” or “severe drought” conditions according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. While the rain is much needed, the potential risks associated with it underscore the complex challenges facing the region in managing both fire and water hazards.