A large debris flow sent mud and water rushing onto Mulholland Drive in Hollywood Hills on Thursday evening, forcing a full road closure as a powerful storm battered Southern California.
LAFD Reports 8 Inches of Mud Covering Roadway
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) reported the mudslide at 4:48 p.m., with approximately 8 inches of mud covering Mulholland Drive.
“As water and mud continue to flow onto Mulholland Drive, a full road closure will remain in place throughout the storm event,” LAFD said in a statement.
Authorities assessed homes above the debris flow and determined they were stable, but the road will remain closed indefinitely due to ongoing storm risks.
Storm Conditions Continue Through Friday Morning
Forecasters warned that heavy rain and thunderstorms will persist in the Los Angeles area until 4 a.m. Friday, increasing the risk of flooding and additional debris flows.
Burn Scars from Sunset Fire Increase Mudslide Risk
The Hollywood Hills was recently impacted by the Sunset Fire last month, which prompted evacuation warnings on Thursday as the storm intensified.
Why Are Burn Areas More Prone to Mudslides?
- Wildfires damage soil, making it water-repellent and preventing absorption.
- Heavy rain quickly turns loose soil into fast-moving debris flows.
- Steep hillsides make areas like Hollywood Hills especially vulnerable.
Emergency Preparations Underway
Officials have taken preventative measures across Southern California, including:
- Tarping steep hillsides to prevent erosion.
- Installing concrete barriers to block mudflows.
- Monitoring burn areas for potential evacuations.
