Heavy rains could trigger flash floods and landslides in areas burned by forest fires

Heavy rains are expected in parts of California Wednesday that could trigger flash floods, debris flows or landslides in areas where forest fires have recently killed more than 80 people and destroyed nearly 17,000 structures.

According to the California Department of Forests and Fire Protection, at least 870 people were still missing as a result of fires that ravaged nearly 400 square kilometers of land in the Golden State.

Brian Ferreira, a rescue team officer with the California Task Force 4, said heavy rains could carry the potential "leftovers, or cremains," and hinder the search for victims. His team and other rescue teams across the state are doing their utmost to ensure that the maximum amount of work is done before the rain falls later in the day, probably again in the next few days. days.

"When the rain comes, [it’s] will consolidate the material and make it denser and compact it. Ferreira told reporters Wednesday in the field. Thus, whatever we find or hope to find is always there, it will make a difficult task all the more difficult. "

"We will go as hard as we can, as long as we can, until we can not go," he added. "That's what will happen."

The worst rain systems could hit Paradise, a city virtually devastated by a fire, with nearly 5 inches of rain until Friday.

According to meteorologists, the rain is good news overall, as it will improve air quality and reduce the risk of new fires this winter, but will likely result in isolated landslides and floods. sudden in areas devastated by forest fires.

A flash flood alert is in effect from Wednesday to Friday in several areas of northern California, including Butte County, where the campfire killed 81 people – making it the deadliest and most deadly forest fire. the most destructive in the history of the state.

"The properties affected by forest fires and downstream of these areas are threatened by flash floods, mudslides and debris flows during periods of heavy rainfall," residents of Butte County warned earlier. week. "Forest fires can change the terrain and soil conditions, thus reducing the soil's ability to absorb water, creating conditions conducive to this type of risk."

The National Weather Service has also warned residents of Lower Butte County to be prepared for possible road problems and possible evacuations due to floods, falling rocks or waterfalls. debris during or after this portion of precipitation.

Rain is also expected in parts of southern California, especially when the Woolsey fire killed at least three people and burned more than 96,000 acres.