Mudslide Traps Dozens Of Vehicles In Cathedral City

CATHEDRAL CITY, CA — Varner Road in Cathedral City was open to traffic Monday following a weekend storm-driven mudslide that trapped about 30 vehicles.

The mudslide was reported about 3:15 p.m. Saturday on Varner between Date Palm and Mountain View roads, according to the Cathedral City Police Department.

Police and firefighters found about 30 vehicles stuck in thick mud and evacuated 32 occupants to a staging area.

Public Works crews used two tractors to clear mud and debris from the roadway to allow the vehicles to be removed from the area.

"Crews cleared mud, debris and sediment deposited during the incident, ensuring the roadway is safe for motorists," police said.

All cleanup operations were completed and Varner Road was reopened Sunday evening.