In the wake of devastating wildfires that recently scorched Los Angeles, California is now facing a new, catastrophic disaster: heavy rainstorms leading to widespread landslides and flooding.
As torrential downpours sweep across the state, communities are struggling to cope with the aftermath, especially in areas already devastated by fires.
Dangerous Mudslides and a Close Call in Malibu
One of the most dramatic moments came in Malibu, where a firefighter was filmed being swept into the sea while driving along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).
The incident occurred after a mudslide hit the highway, causing the firefighter’s vehicle to be knocked over and eventually dragged into the ocean.
Hector Caldeira, who was driving nearby and captured the event on his dashcam, recalled how he urgently yelled at the firefighter to stay inside the vehicle until the water slowed down.
Despite the danger, the firefighter managed to escape, fighting against the crashing waves and the strong mud currents to reach safety.
Thankfully, he was transported to the hospital as a precaution, though the vehicle was believed to be a total loss.
Local authorities are now working on recovering the car from the water.
Evacuations Underway as Storms Continue
In the Pasadena area, Glen Creek became so inundated with mud and water that it sounded like a powerful waterfall.
Locals, still reeling from the recent fire evacuations, are now being forced to leave their homes again due to the floods.
Karen Mortillaro, one of the residents forced to evacuate, described the situation as overwhelming, especially after the traumatic fire evacuations just weeks earlier.
“After having such a traumatic fire evacuation, we don’t need another scare,” Mortillaro said. “It’s just too close back to back.”
Evacuation orders have been issued for several areas, including Trabuco Canyon, Bell Canyon, and Hot Springs Canyon, with some other locations under voluntary orders.
Authorities are going door-to-door to ensure everyone is evacuated and safe.
Roads and Infrastructure Struggling to Keep Up
The damage to roads and infrastructure has been severe.
In Pacific Palisades, several intersections were completely submerged in several feet of sludge, with drivers struggling to pass through the muck.
Bulldozers are working hard to clear the roads in areas that had already been abandoned by those fleeing the wildfires.
In North Altadena, roads near the Eaton Fire burn scar were covered by several feet of debris, including mud, vegetation, and trees, as water overwhelmed previously placed concrete blocks meant to prevent such flows.
Northern California Faces Snow and Freezing Conditions
Meanwhile, in Northern California, snowstorms have caused trouble for residents in higher elevations.
The Sierra region saw heavy snowfall, and drivers were warned to stay off the roads.
Lake Tahoe is expected to receive up to a foot of snow at lake level, with passes potentially receiving up to four feet.
In lower elevations, the snow accumulation was less severe, but conditions remain challenging.
A Brief Break in the Storms, But Dangers Remain
As the storm eases into Thursday night, residents are still warned of the ongoing risks of landslides, especially in areas scarred by recent wildfires.
Although dry conditions are expected as the weekend approaches, the devastation caused by the rains and the wildfires may take a long time to fully recover from.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
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