Southern California is preparing for another strong storm system on Thursday, which could lead to further flooding and mudslides following heavy rain and strong winds that resulted in at least two fatalities. Forecasters are warning that the region could experience the wettest Christmas in years, increasing the risk of debris flows in areas previously affected by wildfires. The burn scar zones from the wildfires in January have been left devoid of vegetation, making them less capable of absorbing water.
On Wednesday, a San Diego man lost his life due to a falling tree, while a Sacramento sheriff’s deputy died in a crash that seemed weather-related. In San Bernardino County, firefighters rescued individuals trapped in vehicles as mud and debris cascaded down a road in Wrightwood, a resort town in the San Gabriel Mountains. The exact number of rescues is currently unknown.
Residents in the affected areas have been urged to stay indoors, with Lytle Creek under an evacuation order and Wrightwood cut off after the only bridge was washed away. Travis Guenther, a resident of Lytle Creek, mentioned that many families were separated due to the bridge collapse, with some seeking shelter at a community center or hotels.
Janice Quick, president of the Wrightwood Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the lack of tree coverage in the town following a wildfire in 2024. Dillan Brown, stranded with his family in a rented cabin in Wrightwood, reached out for help on social media, and the community swiftly responded with essential supplies.
Evacuation orders were issued for residents near burn scar zones in Orange County, while coastal areas like Malibu were placed under a flood watch. Interstate 5 near Burbank Airport was among the roads closed due to flooding. The storms, driven by atmospheric rivers carrying moisture from the tropics, have brought significantly higher rainfall than usual for this time of year.
In higher elevations, heavy snow and strong winds have created hazardous conditions in the Sierra Nevada, prompting a winter storm warning. Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in six counties to facilitate state aid in response to the storms. Emergency resources and first responders have been deployed to various affected regions, with the California National Guard on standby.
The California Highway Patrol reported a fatal crash involving a Sacramento sheriff’s deputy south of Sacramento. The deputy lost control on a wet road and collided with a power pole, highlighting the dangers posed by the inclement weather conditions.