Human modification of land can make certain slopes and steep areas which are vulnerable to landslides during and after heavy rains.
Explanation:
Mudslides, also known as debris flows, are a type of landslide that can occur after a natural disaster, such as a wildfire. Debris flows often contain mud, rock and other materials. It is estimated that about fifty persons die every year due to landslides.
Mudslides typically occur in areas with steep hillsides, gullies and other narrow channels that make it easy for rain, mud and debris to flow through -- much like the terrain in Southern California.
