After weeks of drought, rain has fallen in the wildfire-ravaged area near Los Angeles, California. This precipitation aids firefighters in managing the ongoing fires.
However, heavy rain, including potential cloudbursts, is expected in some areas. If this occurs over burned land, it may create new issues, as the scorched and dry soil cannot absorb water, leading to mudslides containing polluted soil, debris, and toxic ash.
Residents at the base of Altadena hills are advised to use sandbags to protect their homes from flooding. Debris and ash include remnants of burnt cars, electronics, batteries, construction materials, and furniture, containing toxic substances like pesticides, asbestos, lead, and plastics.
Where possible, local services have reinforced roads, removed vegetation, and supported slopes in the affected areas. Efforts are underway to clean the area swiftly to reduce environmental damage.
The wildfires began on January 7 and have severely damaged residential and natural areas. The Eaton and Palisades fires, in particular, have destroyed entire neighborhoods.
The fires spread rapidly due to the unpredictable Santa Ana winds with strong gusts. Twenty-eight fatalities have been reported.
These fires are mostly under control, but not entirely extinguished. On Wednesday, a new fire broke out near Hughes in the northern part of the Los Angeles region, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate.
This fire is largely under control.
Source: NOS