15 dead, 100s injured in California mudslides; rescue operation on
At least 15 people have reportedly died in Southern California after the storm-hit region recently witnessed mudslides and flooding. According to ground reports, the rescue workers are looking for survivors. While around 50 people have already been rescued, the death-toll is likely to rise. The police have described the scene as similar to that of a "World War I battlefield." Here's more about it.
What is a mudslide?
Also known as 'mudflow', mudslides are characterized as 'the fastest and most fluid form of earth movement'. Events including heavy rains can trigger mudslides. Comprising mostly of clay, they travel fast on the lower slope like an avalanche often destroying everything on their way.
What caused the mudslides in California?
The mudslides were triggered after heavy rains poured down on Southern California's land which had recently been scorched by wildfires. Burned vegetation and charred soil apparently repel water, instead of absorbing it. This is complemented by massive loss of vegetation. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the area is at a "significantly higher" risk of flooding upto 5 years after a wildfire.
Several people injured
About 163 people have been hospitalized, out of which 20 suffered storm-related injuries and 4 persons were critically hurt. At least 300 people are reportedly trapped in the Romero Canyon neighborhood located in Eastern Santa Barbara, with rescue efforts expected to commence soon.
What is the ground situation like?
Mike Eliason, spokesman for the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, stated that the mudslide "knocked many houses off their foundations" in the Montecito County. Boulders were reportedly rolling down the hills onto roads, blocking traffic. Officials further described the mud as being "waist-deep" in some places. Several places are reportedly inaccessible and many roads have been closed.
