Next threat looms: Map shows mudslide danger zones in Bay Area

ByAlix Martichoux and Lindsey Feingold KGO logo
Friday, October 9, 2020
Next threat? Map shows mudslide danger zones in Bay Area
Fire season isn't over yet, but another threat to California is looming on the horizon. The Bay Area could be hit with more catastrophe when the rainy season starts.

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Fire season isn't over yet, but another threat to California is looming on the horizon. Areas hit hard by wildfires could be hit with more catastrophe when the rainy season starts.



A map made by ABC7 News' data journalism team, using USGS data, shows which areas are most vulnerable to mudslides if we do get heavy rain.





The map shows the "likelihood of debris flow" if the area were to be hit with 15 minutes of intense rain (24 millimeters per hour). The parts of the Bay Area devastated by recent fires are, of course, most vulnerable.



In the Santa Cruz Mountains, the likelihood of debris flow ranges from 60-100% for the areas around Big Basin State Park, Ano Nuevo Creek and west of Ben Lomond. That region was devastated by the CZU Lightning Complex Fire.



RELATED: What we know about the fires burning in the North Bay



Use the interactive map above to explore the potential for mudslides and watch the video at the top of this story to learn why wildfires create mudslide conditions.



Watch the latest AccuWeather forecast and take a look at recent weather stories and videos.

Copyright © 2024 KGO-TV. All Rights Reserved.