Southern California Struggles with Flooding and Mudslides Following Heavy Rains

Southern California faced severe flooding and mudslides on Friday after an intense storm brought heavy rains to the region, prompting evacuation orders in areas scarred by recent wildfires. The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that a vehicle was swept into the ocean in Malibu, with the occupant escaping with minor injuries, according to spokesperson Erik Scott.

Authorities noted that parts of the Pacific Coast Highway were submerged under 3 feet of mud, creating hazardous conditions for drivers. In Sierra Madre, officials urged residents to evacuate as debris flows posed dangers, advising that emergency responders would not enter affected areas until deemed safe.

The National Weather Service indicated that some locations received between 3 to 6 inches of rain, exacerbating risks in burn areas that lack vegetation to stabilize the soil. Despite the much-needed precipitation, experts warn that the sudden influx of water could lead to further turmoil in the already drought-stricken region. More than 30,000 residents were reported without power amid the adverse weather conditions impacting broader areas of the West Coast.