The rain that is expected to hit the scorched Los Angeles landscape this weekend may bring relief to the fire fights, but it could also bring flash floods and mudslides. Although forecasts show that the risk is relatively low, local officials are taking the warnings seriously.
Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles, who has faced criticism for her handling of the crisis, issued an emergency order earlier this week, mandating that city crews clear out vegetation and reinforce roads ahead of the rainfall.
Crews were also directed to install concrete barriers, lay sandbags and clear debris across burn scars and fire-affected neighborhoods in the hopes of stemming large flows of water.
“These communities have already endured unimaginable loss,” Mayor Bass said in a statement. “We are taking action against further harm.”
Mudslides, also known as debris flows, can occur when burned and dry soil becomes compacted like concrete. Water then funnels down slopes that have lost vegetation that would normally slow or absorb it. The resulting rushing water can carve up the landscape, uprooting trees and dislodging rocks, brush and anything else in its path.
At a news conference this week, Mark Pestrella, the public works director for Los Angeles County, said that people living on or near scorched hillsides should be cautious, especially if their homes had not been inspected after the fires.
“Your best bet is not to be in that home when it rains,” Mr. Pestrella said.
Residents can use burn maps created by the U.S.G.S. to determine if their homes are at risk. For those in potential flood areas, free sandbags are available at fire stations.
Austyn Gaffney, Amy Graff and Jesus Jiménez contributed reporting.
