What was once a living room is now filled with mud — the aftermath of floodwaters that tore through several homes in Pinon Hills, a desert community in San Bernardino County.
As raging water roared through properties during last week’s downpours, Los Angeles County first responders rescued people trapped on rooftops.
“The water was just coming in so fast it almost looked like waves,” one resident told KTLA.
Ramona Ralph, who lives next door, endured the Christmas Eve nightmare. She managed to get her horses out before the barn collapsed. Her yard turned into a river, and her neighbor’s home filled with mud.
“I know Paul isn’t in a good situation right now, but he’s alive,” Ralph said.
Flooding in Pinon Hills, Calif. on Dec. 24, 2025. (Larissa Jackson)
A helicopter crew rescues people atop a home during flooding in Pinon Hills, California, on Dec. 24, 2025. (Larissa Jackson)
Flood damage to a home in Pinon Hills, California, on Dec. 24, 2025. (Larissa Jackson)
Steven Prindle’s brother, Paul, lived in the home for 20 years. He lost everything except for a few family treasures.
“The house is paid off, but he has no insurance to take care of things,” Prindle said.
Volunteers are stepping in, clearing debris and salvaging what they can at this property and others covered in mud.
“We made a post on Facebook and had about 20 volunteers yesterday because of it,” said Dylan Turkowski, who has never met Paul but felt compelled to lend a helping hand.
“It’s devastating to go through someone else’s house. I’m grateful it’s not mine, and it’s touching — that’s why I’m here,” Turkowski said.
The Prindle family and the Ralphs next door are grateful for strangers and neighbors alike for their goodwill during this disaster.
“The community came together in the small amount they could because the devastation is everywhere,” Ralph said.
After all the mess is cleared, the Prindle family says they are determined to stay on the property. GoFundMe accounts have been set up to help with expenses:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-ramona-robert-and-andrew-after-the-flood
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-pauls-flood-recovery
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