Rain recently fell in Southern California, breaking a period of dry and windy weather. This rainfall is seen as beneficial for firefighters combatting numerous wildfires in the region. However, there is concern that heavy rainfall on hillsides previously affected by fires could result in toxic ash runoff.
In response to this potential risk, crews in Los Angeles County have been proactive in taking measures to prevent any negative consequences. They have been working on removing vegetation, stabilizing slopes, and fortifying roads in areas that were impacted by the Palisades and Eaton fires earlier in the month.
Despite the positive aspect of the much-needed rainfall, there is caution advised by the National Weather Service. While most areas are expected to receive around an inch of precipitation over a period of a few days, the Service has highlighted the potential for localized cloudbursts. This raises concerns about the possibility of mud and debris flows on hillsides.
“So the problem would be if one of those showers happens to park itself over a burn area,” weather service meteorologist Carol Smith said. “That could be enough to create debris flows.”
Firefighters put out hot spots, Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025 in Camarillo, California, where the Laguna Fire broke out. (AP)
The weekend’s wet weather in Southern California ended weeks of dangerous winds and reduced humidity, but several wildfires were still burning in the area on Saturday, including the Palisades and Eaton fires, which killed at least 28 people and destroyed more than 14,000 structures. The Palisades Fire was 81% contained on Saturday and the Eaton Fire was 95% contained.
Meanwhile, in northern Los Angeles County, firefighters made significant progress against the Hughes Fire, which forced tens of thousands of people to evacuate when it erupted on Wednesday in mountains near Lake Castaic.
There was little containment of the Border 2 Fire in San Diego County as it burned through a remote area of the Otay Mountain Wilderness near the U.S.-Mexico border.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
