After blaze, mudslide threat for homes near Apple Canyon Road

Authorities are urging about 20 homeowners in the area of Apple Canyon Road to evacuate because of flooding and mudslide risks after the Mountain Fire was brought under control over the weekend.

The 27,265-acre fire in the mountains above Palm Springs is smoldering Monday after being drenched by thunderstorms.

But the rain raised the potential for flooding and mudslides in recently burned areas.

The evacuation is voluntary and applies to about 20 homes in the area of Apple Canyon Roads, a small community popular with artists several miles southeast of Idyllwild.

U.S. Forest Service spokesman Lee Beyer says the warning is a precaution, since mudslides can occur quickly and leave little or no time to flee.