OAK GLEN, Calif. (AP) — Severe mudslides and debris flows wreaked havoc on several communities in Southern California following intense rainfall from the remnants of Tropical Storm Mario. These weather patterns led to downed trees, destruction of property, and stranded vehicles on the mountainside, notably affecting areas around Forest Falls, Oak Glen, and Potato Canyon.
Local authorities reported no injuries or missing persons, confirming that emergency personnel successfully rescued 10 individuals trapped in six vehicles on state Route 38 near Jenks Lake, an area commonly affected during severe weather events. Christopher Prater, a public information officer for the San Bernardino County Fire, stated that the situation was dire but thankfully did not result in casualties.
The storm, which unleashed more than 1.5 inches of rain within just an hour, created conditions ripe for mudslides, particularly in regions previously scorched by wildfires. Kyle Wheeler, a meteorologist from the National Weather Service in San Diego, noted that the rainfall was significantly heavier and faster than typical for the region, which usually experiences around half an inch of rain per hour during summer thunderstorms.
Witnesses like Kael Steel described the chaotic scene as entire roads washed away by the sudden influx of water and debris, illustrating how quickly conditions can deteriorate in mountainous terrain. The California Highway Patrol announced the continued closure of Route 38 as teams assess the damage, with authorities echoing sentiments that significant impacts on the community are anticipated, although the full extent of the destruction remains unknown.
Historically, Forest Falls has been prone to mudslides, including a significant event three years ago that followed severe wildfires, leaving the landscape particularly vulnerable to such disasters.
Damage assessment teams are on the ground to evaluate the impact on the area and begin the recovery process for residents and local infrastructure.
