1 year after the devastating mudslides: Then-and-now photos capture Montecito, California

On Jan. 9, 2018, the Southern California town of Montecito became overwhelmed with destructive mudslides after a potent storm prowled through the area.

Heavy rain that had fallen on burn scar areas from the devastating Thomas Fire, which had raged only several weeks prior, triggered waves of flowing mud, rock and debris, which came crashing down onto homes and roadways. Hundreds of homes were damaged or destroyed.

The debris flow claimed 21 lives with two people still missing, according to Santa Barbara County Fire Public Information Officer Mike Eliason.

Eliason shared before and after imagery of Montecito on Twitter to mark the one-year anniversary of the mudslides.

Montecito is planning a remembrance event on the evening of Jan. 9 for those in the community to remember the victims and share their experiences.

"This event is for everyone in the community," organizers said. "By providing the space in which to honor our collective experiences, it is the hope of the hosting committee that our community will share a night of healing, hope and light with one another."

The charity organization Direct Relief , which is based in Santa Barbara, said local relief efforts have exceeded $5.5 million in assistance over the past year and remain ongoing.

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