Idyllwild sanctuary faces recovery after devastating flash flooding
Luis Avila
Idyllwild, Calif. (KESQ) – A therapeutic sanctuary in Idyllwild is working to recover after being severely damaged by a powerful flash flood that tore through the area last week, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
The sudden surge of water inundated the neighborhood, sending torrents of mud and debris through roadways and properties. One of the hardest-hit locations was a local healing space, known as A Human Sanctuary.
Sascha Breuer, who helps run the sanctuary, described the terrifying moments when the floodwaters arrived.
“We have flood gates that we just put in and I opened both, and within seven minutes the whole back of this started piling up with water. We’re talking at this point it was just below my chest… There was a lot of swearing and me rushing forward and backwards. There wasn’t really time to freak out — just frantically unlodging everything.”
Sascha Breuer, Idyllwild Resident
Julie Anne Steiger, who also runs the sanctuary, said the timing couldn’t have been worse. The site had just completed major upgrades, including new fencing and walkways.
“This month we were supposed to launch workshops on the land here. A lot of the spaces that I had curated… were a part of what was swept away. A lot of the materials I had put out internationally and with my heart and a lot prayer are now three feet under soil.”
Julie Anne Steiger, Idyllwild Resident
While the initial mess has largely been cleared, Breuer says the real work is just beginning. In addition to rebuilding the sanctuary grounds, they’re also working on preventive measures to protect against future flooding.
“Clean up — which is the most immediate part, but we also have to build a flood barrier.”
Sascha Breuer, Idyllwild Resident
Despite the loss, the community’s support has been overwhelming. Giving those behind the sanctuary hope that their work will not only continue — but grow stronger.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help with recovery and rebuilding efforts. For more information or to donate, click here.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.