Deadly Debris Flows – The Flood After the Fire

After a wildfire is put out, there’s another risk that develops, one that’s far more deadly than the fire itself: rain. While water might seem like nature’s remedy for parched and fire-ravaged landscapes, heavy rainfall can trigger catastrophic mudslides and flash floods in burned areas. That’s because the fire has destroyed the plants and trees whose roots help stabilize the ground. Without living plants, hillsides pummeled with rain become fast-moving slurries that can carry boulders and move at terrifying speeds of over 35 mph. These debris flows can wash out highways and roads, carry cars away with ease, and destroy buildings in their path. This week, Emily welcomes Dr. J.J. Gourley, Research Hydrometeorologist at NOAA's National Severe Storms Laboratory, to discuss how scientists are utilizing lifesaving NOAA technology to predict these post-wildfire hazards. Tune in to learn what communities need to know to stay safe when the flames are extinguished but the danger isn’t over.

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