A fast-moving series of mud and debris flows struck Oak Glen, Forest Falls, Potato Canyon, and nearby communities after intense thunderstorms tied to the remnants of Tropical Storm Mario. Authorities reported destroyed homes, road closures on Highway 38, and evacuations that were later lifted. Cleanup and assessments are ongoing.
What Happened in San Bernardino County
Heavy rain on September 18 triggered debris flows off the El Dorado Fire burn scar, burying bridges, trapping motorists, and cutting off routes around Oak Glen and Forest Falls.
Even after skies cleared, forecasters warned that the combination of wildfire burn scars, loose soil, and steep terrain means the region remains vulnerable to new slides with even modest rainfall (AP News).
Local Impacts We’re Tracking
Wildfire season affects the entire state, but Southern California is uniquely vulnerable because of:
Safety First: What to Do Today
1. Follow official alerts.
Monitor San Bernardino County Emergency Information, County Fire updates, and ABC7 coverage for new warnings.
2. Avoid closed roads and washouts.
Glen Road until cleared by Caltrans or Public Works. Drivers reported pavement suddenly vanishing under rushing debris (The Guardian).
3. Document conditions safely.
From a secure distance, take photos or videos of property damage and blocked access. Examples of safe-distance documentation can be seen in Weather Channel coverage.
4. Keep receipts.
Save all receipts for emergency repairs, cleanup materials, or temporary lodging. These may be reimbursable under your policy.
5. Report, then call us.
File a claim promptly with your carrier to get a claim number, then contact a licensed public adjuster. We help document and negotiate so nothing is missed.
Insurance Note: Debris Flow, Flood, and Coverage
Policies treat mudslides, debris flows, and “earth movement” differently. After wildfires, some debris-flow losses may be treated as covered storm damage rather than excluded earth movement. Every case depends on the policy language and documentation.
Chris and Jo Faber can review your coverage, frame your claim correctly, and ensure eligible losses are not overlooked.
How We Help Homeowners
We work only for policyholders. After disasters like this, we:
If your home is uninhabitable, we also help secure Additional Living Expenses (ALE).
For Local Businesses Affected by Mudslides
Restaurants, rental cabins, shops, and farms are the lifeblood of these mountain communities. Mudslides can disrupt not just property, but also income. Business owners often face:
We help business owners document both property and income losses so claims reflect the full financial impact.
Worried your coverage won’t hold up when you need it most?
We review California policies every day and can help you spot coverage gaps before disaster strikes. Contact us for a free policy review.
What to Photograph for a Stronger Claim
Local Resources and Official Updates
County & Emergency Services
Roads & Flooding
Federal & State Flood Resources
Weather & Forecasting
Community Support
FAQs
Q: Does homeowners insurance cover mudslides?
A: Not always. Many policies exclude “earth movement.” However, if linked to wildfire burn scars, some debris-flow claims may be covered.
Q: If I cannot access my home, can I claim Additional Living Expenses?
A: Yes. If access is restricted or unsafe, ALE may apply. Save receipts and keep a record of dates.
Q: Can businesses claim lost income?
A: Yes, if policies include business interruption coverage. Documentation of closures and income loss is critical.
Q: Can I start cleanup immediately?
A: Only after photographing and documenting conditions. For safety-required work, take before-and-after photos and keep all receipts.
Chris and Jo’s Commitment to San Bernardino County
With over 50 years of combined experience and 40,000 claims handled, we stand with homeowners and business owners when storms upend lives. If you are in Oak Glen, Forest Falls, Potato Canyon, or nearby foothills, we are here to guide your recovery.
Let’s take the next step together.
Recovering from a mudslide is overwhelming, from documenting damage to navigating insurance. Need help with your claim or understanding coverage? Contact us today for expert guidance.
