Rain brings wildfire relief to LA, but officials caution about mudslides and hazardous ash

 

Rain provides relief from wildfires across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, but officials warn of new dangers, including hazardous waste, toxic ash runoff, and mudslides.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flood watch from 4:00 p.m. PDT Sunday through 4:00 p.m. PDT Monday for areas impacted by the fires, particularly burn scars. Thunderstorms could bring "brief heavy downpours and gusty winds," the NWS warned.

Rainfall predictions for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties range from 0.75 to 1 inch, with mountain areas expecting 1.5 to 3 inches. San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties could see similar totals, with localized heavy rain and possible small hail or waterspouts off the California coast.

“Rain over burn scars may lead to debris flows or mudslides,” the NWS Los Angeles office cautioned in a statement on X. Residents are urged to follow local officials’ instructions. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection emphasized that fast-moving mud, debris, and rocks can pose severe risks to roads and homes, urging people to stay prepared, avoid flooded areas, and be ready to evacuate.

Efforts to mitigate hazards are underway, with multiple agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency, working to safely clear debris and dispose of hazardous materials from burned areas. This includes ash from vegetation, structures, and vehicles, which strong winds may spread.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass signed an emergency executive order last week directing city crews to install reinforced concrete barriers, deploy sandbags, and remove debris to protect burn areas and prevent toxic runoff. “With rain in the forecast, we must act aggressively to prevent further damage and safeguard our water and ocean from hazardous runoff,” Bass said.

Firefighters continue to make progress containing the fires. As of Sunday morning, the Palisade Fire was 87% contained, the Eaton Fire 95%, and the Hughes Fire 92%, according to estimates from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

Hazards from Wildfire Damage

Wildfires leave behind significant health and safety hazards. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fire debris and ash often contain harmful substances such as asbestos, heavy metals, and toxic chemicals.

Dr. Barbara Ferrer, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, noted last week that heavy metals like lead and arsenic, often found in burned electronics and building materials, can cause serious health issues even with brief exposure.

Residents cleared to return home in burned areas should take precautions to protect their health. Los Angeles County officials recommend wearing N95 masks to avoid inhaling harmful particles, along with safety goggles, gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and pants to protect against ash and debris. Hazardous materials should not be removed without proper assistance.

Officials also encourage monitoring air quality and wearing N95 masks if smoke, ash, or dust are present. Residents are urged to remain vigilant as recovery efforts continue.