ClimateAugust 18, 2026

mudflow

MUD-floh

Definition

A rapid, destructive flow of earth and water that moves down a slope, typically occurring in areas recently affected by wildfires.

Etymology

The word is a compound of the Old English 'mud' (wet, soft dirt) and 'flow' (to stream or glide), describing the movement of saturated earth.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the risk of debris moving down hillsides following fires, warning residents to prepare for this hazard during the upcoming rainy season.

With a strong El Niño expected in SoCal, should you consider flood insurance?

Read the full article ↗

LAist

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