6 killed, several stranded in California mudslide

California (U.S.A.) Jan 10 (ANI) At least six people were killed and several stranded after a powerful winter storm and torrential rainfall unleashed devastating rivers of mud and debris in southern California on Tuesday.

The six people were found dead in Santa Barbara County and 50 people had been rescued from the area.

"Six homes near the coastal community of Montecito were wiped away from their foundations by mudflow and debris," CNN quoted Santa Barbara County fire spokesman Mike Eliason as saying.

The deaths were reported in the Montecito and Carpinteria areas northwest of Los Angeles, which were severely hit by flooding and a debris flow, Amber Anderson with the Santa Barbara Office of Emergency Services confirmed to Fox News.

About three to four airships have been sent for rescue operations, the Coast Guard said, adding that it will withdraw the mission if it finds any drone in the area.

Many people stranded in Montecito have been rescued throughout the day.

Montecito is home to many Hollywood celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey and Ellen DeGeneres.

"I've loved being part of the Montecito community," DeGeneres wrote on Twitter. "I send love to all the families and the amazing rescue workers braving these mudslides."

Rain is expected to intensify further in Santa Barbara and Montecito area.

"More flash flooding possible Montecito/Carpinteria," a message on Santa Barbara County's website reads. "Leave debris flow areas now. Go to high ground," CNN reported. (ANI)

This story has not been edited. It has been published as provided by ANI