Search continues for 8 presumed missing in California mudslides

The search is on for survivors, after a series of mudslides in the Montecito community of Ventura County, California.

CNN confirmed that at least 17 people were killed after mud and boulders crushed two homes. Eight others are presumed missing as of Tuesday.

All of the deaths occurred in the Santa Barbara County area, in which 65 homes were destroyed, and 462 residences were significantly damaged by rivers of mud and debris.

As of Wednesday, 500 first responders and canines have been working hard to look for survivors, and they have canvassed approximately 75 per cent of the destruction zone.

A report from the Associated Press states that 12 survivors remain in hospital, of which four remain in critical condition.