It is reported that at least 13 are dead at this point, with those numbers believed to rise, after flooding and mudslides from severe rain just weeks after the recent Thomas and La Tuna fires are forcing thousands to escape their neighborhoods and homes in Southern California.
Areas where vegetation has burned are less able to absorb water as is normal. This makes the hillsides and mountains more vulnerable to flash-flooding and mudslides. Not much can deter the massive tonnage of rapidly moving oozing mudflow. Many homes have been moved off their foundations, and worse, collapsing altogether. Many that remain standing have filled to levels of 3-4 feet of mud and water inside, making clean up near impossible. Look around your living room as you sit in your favorite chair. Now try to visualize that same room filled halfway to the ceiling with nasty mud.
Sovereign LORD God of grace and mercy, I pray Your sheltering wings upon all the victims of the territories under flood conditions, and flood watch. Bless these people LORD and keep them safe. Please, dear Father, do not allow these flood waters to further rob their lives. And the children, LORD, please do not allow fear to have a lasting effect on their lives. Constrain and redirect the flood waters, debris flow, and devastating mud surges protecting their homes, their precious animals, and their hopes. Bless, strengthen and protect all first responders and volunteers who work to keep people safe. LORD God, I pray You would calm or redirect these storms in the mighty name of Your Son Jesus, Amen!
