Watson Lecture - Michael Lamb: The Science of Post-Wildfire Debris Flows

Update: In light of the fires that have burned throughout the Pasadena and Greater Los Angeles regions, Michael Lamb, professor of geology, has revised the topic of his January 29 Watson Lecture.

Los Angeles is devastated by the January 2025 fires. As we enter the rainy season, the threat for debris flows is high in the steep, burned hills that border many communities. Debris flows are fast-moving torrents of water, mud, and rocks that are dangerous to life and property. Known as the fire-flood cycle, this cascade of disasters has plagued California communities for more than a century. In this talk, Michael Lamb, professor of geology, will discuss the latest research on debris flows, why they often occur after wildfires, and what can be done to forecast their impact. 

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Evening Schedule

6 p.m. — Activities and music. Food, drinks, and books available for purchase

7 p.m. — Doors open

7:30 p.m. — Talk and Q&A

8:30 p.m. — Post-talk concessions and conversation

The live event is in-person and a recording will be made available on our Youtube channel.

About the Series

For more than 100 years, the Watson Lectures have brought the wonder of Caltech research and discovery to the public.

Free and open to the public, the Watson Lecture Series offers a unique and accessible opportunity to learn more about cutting-edge science directly from Caltech's premier researchers. Come early to mingle with your neighbors over food, drink and music, as well as interactive displays related to the evening's topic. Then head inside to hear a stimulating talk and stay to ask your questions.

Many past Watson Lectures are available on YouTube.

For more information, please contact The Caltech Ticket Office by email at events@caltech.edu.