Evacuations Ordered as Storm Brings Mudslide Threat
Evacuations and Firefighting Challenges
Two communities are under mandatory evacuation orders, while several others remain on evacuation warning. High winds grounded all aerial firefighting efforts overnight, allowing the fire to spread uncontrollably through dry vegetation in the eastern Sierra Nevada.
The Mammoth Lakes Police Department reported apocalyptic scenes as flames raced through residential areas, leaving behind charred structures and ash-covered streets.
Double Disaster: Rain Could Help — or Trigger Mudslides
A powerful Pacific storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall starting Friday, potentially aiding firefighters by dampening the blaze and possibly marking the end of California’s 2025 fire season.
However, the same storm raises alarm in Southern California, where 23 million residents are under flood watches. Hillsides scarred by earlier 2025 wildfires — including the devastating Eaton Fire near Pasadena — have lost vegetation, increasing the risk of life-threatening mudslides and debris flows.
Residents Brace for Flash Flooding in Burn Scar Zones
In Sierra Madre, resident Gary Kelly described rainfall rates of an inch per hour: “It’s like a river pouring down the hills.” His neighborhood, within the Eaton burn scar, is on high alert for flash flooding.
Los Angeles County officials warn this could be the wettest November in 40 years. Vulnerable areas like Malibu and Altadena are preparing for intense mudflows, with residents urged to map evacuation routes and secure sandbags.
Storm Impacts Already Felt Statewide
The atmospheric river system has already caused flooded highways, downed trees, and power outages across California. Drivers navigated through deep water on major routes like Highway 880 in Oakland on Thursday.
Forecasters predict the heaviest rain will hit Southern California late Friday into Saturday, heightening risks in fire-damaged canyons and foothills.
