When rainstorms like this week’s powerful atmospheric river hit California, the earth begins to move. Water rushing down mountains and hills picks up soil and vegetation, as well as boulders, trees and cars that can become battering rams. Commonly called mudslides, these dangerous torrents are usually referred to by geologists and first responders as debris flows, which the U.S. Geological Survey describes as fast-moving landslides capable of exceeding 35 mph (56 kph).
The dangerous, intense storm will move into Southern California this weekend, lingering for days and bringing the potential for widespread flooding, power outages, downed trees and debris flows.
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