Extreme Weather of 2017 / Montecito, CA: Fire & Mud
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Montecito, CA: Fire & Mud

The Thomas Fire of Southern California ignited on December 4, 2017, and quickly grew into a firestorm that consumed over 280,000 acres and 1,000 structures. The fire burned so intensely that the soil was turned into a dense, water-repellent surface, setting the stage for another catastrophe. On January 9, 2018, a sudden, torrential downpour on Montecito's Eastern hills resulted in massive flows of mud and debris, demolishing homes and businesses in their path, and ultimately killing 23 people and damaging over 400 homes. Total damage of the wildfire & mudslide events were estimated to be about $6.2 billion.

You didn't want to fart in the woods, 'cause that would have started a fire

Marco, a long time resident of Montecito is also a local real estate agent and is closely connected with local residents. He pays close attention to local weather patterns, conditions, and their affect on the landscape. He explains the formula of weather patterns that led to the Thomas fire and then in January, after heavy rains, the subsequent debris flows that decimated the town of Montecito.

Also, see the video that Marco took during the event.

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