California officials brace for threat of floods and mudslides following LA fires
Historical data suggests winter weather could create challenges for the LA area following the fires.
Wildfires continue to rage in the Los Angeles area, with strong winds and dry conditions creating a nightmare situation for the more than 8,500 firefighters on the ground.
While the state prepares for another round of uncooperative weather, with more wind in Wednesday's forecast, officials are looking ahead to prevent disasters that could quickly follow: Flooding and mudslides.
How wildfires can elevate the risk of flooding and landslides
Wildfires alter the environment in several ways. Fires incinerate the trees and other vegetation that anchors the soil. When plants and their roots are removed en masse, it can loosen the soil and make it more susceptible to washing away in heavy rain.
Intense fires, like the ones happening in LA, are also known to change the composition of soil.), causing it to develop a wax-like layer that repels water.
This reduced absorbency makes rainwater more likely to pool on the ground, elevating flood risk.
California officials work to prevent future disasters
California Governor Gavin Newsom (right) tours fire-ravaged communities. (Date unknown/Government of California
In a recent statement by the Government of California officials said they are working to mitigate the risks post-fire risks.
"With much of the winter still ahead, the risk of rainstorms creating new catastrophes in [fire zones] areas remains high," reads an excerpt from the statement.
"At the direction of the Governor, the work to prepare for potential mudslides and flooding begins immediately."
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed an executive order that allocates resources toward mudslide and flood prevention.
"Historical data indicate that significant winter rainstorms are likely to impact the Greater Los Angeles Area in the next few months, compounding the peril posed to communities impacted by these devastating fires, as well as neighbouring communities downhill and downstream," reads the order.
"It is critical that the state remain vigilant and prepare now for the potential threat to lives and property that flash flooding, mudslides, and debris flows would pose, even while the firefights remain active."
The fires, which erupted last week and spread quickly, have killed at least two dozen people and burned more than 16,425 hectares (40,588 acres) of land at the time of this writing.
Header image: California Governor Gavin Newsom tours fire-ravaged communities. (Date unknown/Government of California
