Southern California Wildfires Contained, But Rain Brings Flooding and Toxic Runoff Risks

Recent rainfall aids firefighting efforts but increases the threat of mudslides and debris flows in areas devastated by wildfires.

The Palisades, Eaton, and Hughes fires, which collectively destroyed thousands of homes and claimed 27 lives, are now over 90% contained, with ongoing efforts to fully extinguish them.
Rainfall across Southern California has helped firefighters but raised concerns about toxic ash runoff and debris flows in burn areas, with a flood watch in effect through Monday afternoon.
Officials warn of potential mudslides and flash flooding in areas near recent burn scars, particularly around the Eaton Fire, which scorched over 14,000 acres.
Residents in affected areas are urged to use sandbags, clear drainage paths, and heed evacuation orders as rainfall intensities could trigger hazardous conditions.
The fires have already caused significant damage, including the destruction of over 10,000 structures, with estimated economic losses reaching up to $50 billion.