January 27, 2025 - A weekend storm in Los Angeles has significantly impacted California, aiding in the containment of the most damaging wildfires in the state's history while simultaneously causing flooding and mudslides. The storm brought over an inch of rain to parts of the northern hills, particularly in burn zones, leading to hazardous road conditions.
Emergency vehicles became stuck in mudslides, with at least one fire truck battling the Palisades Fire requiring rescue. Public schools in Malibu closed due to dangerous conditions, and sections of the 5 Freeway and Pacific Coast Highway were shut down as well. The National Weather Service had issued flash-flood warnings, which were lifted Sunday night, but a flash-flood watch remains in effect.
Despite the adverse weather, firefighters reported that they have nearly contained the Palisades and Eaton fires, which have burned nearly 40,000 acres. Officials believe the rain will assist in further quelling these fires.
In a separate incident, Northern New England experienced a small earthquake measuring 3.8 in magnitude, centered approximately 6 miles from York Harbor, Maine. The quake occurred at 10:22 a.m. and may be followed by aftershocks in the coming days, according to the US Geological Survey.