David's Blog: Big California Storm Brings Mudslide Threat
Debris flows and mudslides are a real threat for southern California and the Los Angeles area this week. Heavy rain is forecast to fall in the hills above LA and as this explainer graphic from the US Geologic Survey shows, that can lead to dangerous mudslides. Recent wildfires have also stripped the ground of vegetation, increasing the threat.
Credit: maxuser
Credit: maxuser
The heavy rain threat will begin on Wednesday and last through Friday. Computer models suggest 5" rain totals in the city, and 10" totals possible in the hills above Los Angeles. Consider that LA gets about 13" of rain in an entire year, and the threat becomes clear. Record rainfall on hillsides with no vegetation could cause life threatening conditions.
