A massive mudslide swept across Southern California leaving 17 dead and more than a dozen still missing. It destroyed more than 100 homes and in its wake took cars and debris before ending on the beach. Reports by CNN and Abc News provided much of the information used in this article. The mudslide streamed down a mountain with trees and boulders and crashed into Montecito, Santa Barbara County, a peaceful coastal town early on Tuesday (Jan. 9).

17 dead and others left stranded

A team of 14 firefighters and six dogs followed by Anthony Buzzerio, Los Angeles County Fire Battalion Chief, went into thick debris.

They rescued three people on Wednesday (Jan. 10) but sadly they also found two bodies, which raised the death total to 17. According to ABC News, Buzzerio described the mud as being hard but soft underneath, therefore, utmost care was taken in searching for bodies. Rescuers, therefore, used long-handled tools in the search for survivors and bodies. Hundreds were rescued by aircraft, their bodies lifted from the mud. It's been reported that 13 are still missing from Santa Barbara County Sheriff, Bill Brown said on Wednesday.

Many rescued, but with injuries

People who were rescued with injuries were rushed to Santa Barbara Cottage hospital and four were in critical condition, according to Dr. Brett Wilson.

"Most injuries we saw were related to fast-moving debris," Dr. Wilson told ABC News. 50 people were rescued by helicopter and taken to safety on rooftops because blocked roads had left them stranded, due to debris or they were trying to escape the crushing mud.

Families and friends distraught

Families are anxiously awaiting any news on loved ones.

Reported on CNN, Diane Brewer has faith her missing friend, Josie Gower, 69, will be found. Gower was at home with her boyfriend when disaster struck early Tuesday morning. Brewer told CNN, Gower opened her front door and was swept away. Gower's boyfriend was rescued between boulders.

Mudslides and flooding

Heavy rainfall fell in Montecito in a short period of time, with a third of the rain fallen in 24 hours in the space of five minutes, according to the National Weather Service.The water had nowhere to go and that's why it flooded leaving 100 homes destroyed and 300 damaged, according to County officials.

Social media pays respect

The public is tweeting their condolences and prayers for survivors and loved ones who have lost someone due to this destruction.

California is in our prayers.
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