The mudslides have caused major damage in Santa Barbara County northwest of Los Angeles following heavy rain over recent days. Another 17 people have been reported missing.
Several major roads have been closed because of debris including the major north-south route, Highway 101 – parts of which are not likely to reopen until Monday (January 15).
One of the worst hit areas is the town of Montecito, which is home to many celebrities such as chat show host Oprah Winfrey and actor Rob Lowe, where many houses have suffered severe damage.
Thousands of residents have had to leave their homes and authorities have declared an “exclusion zone” in the area.
The mudslides came after the area was badly damaged by huge wildfires during December.
