Southern California: Southern California is grappling with intense rainstorms that began over the weekend and are expected to last through Tuesday, delivering much-needed relief from drought conditions but significantly heightening the risk of floods and mudslides in regions scorched by recent wildfires.

According to Anadolu Agency, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flood watches for burn areas near Palisades, Altadena, and Castaic Lake, warning that heavy rainfall over wildfire burn scars could trigger dangerous debris flows. The service has cautioned residents about the potential for higher rain rates due to convective showers or thunderstorms, especially through Monday morning. "We have several Flood Advisories in effect in the area this evening. Use caution driving and never drive through flooded roads!" the NWS cautioned on X.

The Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire have previously wreaked havoc in these regions, resulting in 11 fatalities in the former and 17 in the latter. The devastation has forced thousands of residents to seek new housing as they were displaced from their homes.

While the storms offer some relief from the longstanding drought conditions, they present a dual threat of toxic runoff and flash floods. This is particularly concerning in areas where wildfires have led to vegetation loss, destabilizing the soil and increasing the risk of landslides and debris flows.