Earlier this year, wildfires near the town of Ruidoso, New Mexico, destroyed more than a thousand structures and killed two people.
Within weeks, the fire was under control. But then it rained.
Over the next few weeks, rain fell steadily on the newly burned forest. Floods washed away scorched earth and submerged towns, causing more destruction and danger to residents.
Flooding and mudslides are common after wildfires.
Wildfires damage vegetation and coat the soil with a waxy surface that prevents water from seeping into the ground and increases runoff.
So when rain hits a burn scar, the water rushes down the mountain, taking with it dirt and debris, creating dangerous floods in just minutes.
After a wildfire, this increased flood risk may persist for five years or more, until the forest has a chance to regrow.
In many areas, climate change is making wildfires more common and more severe.
That's why experts recommend that people who live in wildfire-prone areas buy flood insurance.
Before a disaster strikes, residents should research evacuation routes and pack travel bags to help them stay safe when wildfires and flooding threaten their homes.
Reporting credit: Ethan Friedman/ChavoBart Digital Media
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