When a sudden mud and debris flow swept through San Bernardino County on Christmas Eve, more than 120 first responders raced to evacuate residents, leaving families to spend the holiday in emergency shelters.
The Sudden Storm
On Wednesday, heavy rain poured across San Bernardino County, saturating the ground and setting the stage for a severe mud and debris flow. The weather event continued into the evening, leaving the region vulnerable to sudden runoff. When the rain stopped for a few hours on Thursday morning, the danger became apparent as the saturated soil began to move.
The Mudflow
Video released by the San Bernardino County Fire Department captured a thick layer of mud surrounding homes in a Wrightwood community. The footage also showed at least one car completely submerged in the flow, illustrating the force of the movement. The debris carried by the mud threatened the structural integrity of nearby houses.
Response Effort
Officials reported that more than 120 first responders worked overnight on Christmas Eve to bring people to safety. Crews from the San Bernardino County Fire Department rushed to evacuate residents in the affected areas, including a neighborhood on State Route 138 off the 15 Freeway. Their rapid deployment helped prevent injuries and secure the evacuation of families.
Evacuation and Shelter
Some families in San Bernardino County were forced to spend Christmas Day at an emergency shelter after the mudflow inundated their neighborhoods. The shelters provided basic accommodations while the county worked to restore normal conditions. Residents remained in the shelters until the situation was deemed safe.
Safety and Medical Care
The fire department confirmed that no one was seriously injured during the incident. One child was taken to a hospital out of precaution, ensuring that all medical concerns were addressed promptly. The county’s emergency services prioritized swift medical assessment for those affected.
Key Takeaways
- Over 120 first responders worked overnight to evacuate residents during the mudflow.
- Families spent Christmas Day in emergency shelters due to the flooding of their neighborhoods.
- No serious injuries were reported, though a child was taken to a hospital for precautionary care.
The event underscores the importance of rapid emergency response in the face of sudden natural disasters, and it highlights the community’s resilience during a challenging holiday season.
