Southern California mudslide fears from an oncoming winter storm led to evacuation orders on Monday in areas recently ravaged by wildfires.
An incoming winter storm has the potential to dump enough rain for flooding in areas affected by the wildfires, authorities warned, per NBC News, and KABC-TV reported that months of dry weather and large brush fires have left hillsides stripped bare.
KTLA-TV reported the winter storm was expected to bring unseasonably warm conditions, up to four inches of rain, snow, gusty winds and possible thunderstorms between Monday and Tuesday.
The National Weather Service reported light to moderate rain throughout the region on Monday, including Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles counties, NBC News said.
"Flash floods, mud and debris flows can happen with little or no warning," Santa Barbara County officials said on Monday. "It is important that you understand the seriousness of the situation and follow the direction of authorities.”
"A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for unincorporated parts of Santa Barbara County, Montecito, Summerland and Carpinteria including all areas north of Highway 192, east of Cold Springs Road, and west of Highway 150/the county line.”
KABC-TV said the Burbank and Corona areas were issued voluntary evacuation orders until 6 a.m.
The National Weather Service in Los Angeles issued a Twitter post saying heavy rain could hamper movement early Tuesday.
NBC News said the Thomas wildfire, which has burned 280,000 acres since starting in Dec. 4, was the largest wildfire in California history. A joint management team told the network that the fire was 92 percent contained as of Monday night.
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