Autumn Inferno in California

This Instagram image (below) from a horse rescue in California tells the dramatic story of a state once again in flames.   A CNN post updated earlier today describes hurricane-like wind gusts that have driven walls of flame over dried hillsides and killed over 40 people so far. 

The statistics are mind-numbing: Over 21 million people are affected by the fires. Almost 250,000 acres are already burned, and fires have so far destroyed 7,000 homes and buildings.

CNN reports that the Woolsey Fire in the south has "charred more than 93,000 acres and destroyed 435 structures. But on Tuesday, hurricane-force gusts -- meaning 74 mph or greater -- will hit canyons and ridgetops, fueling an already catastrophic blaze."

Single-digit humidity along with very dry vegetation will lead to the potential of explosive fire growth.  So far, two people have died from the Woolsey Fire -- both in Malibu.  But the tragedy is even worse in Northern California, where the so-called Camp Fire has left 42 people dead. It's now the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in the state's recorded history. 

 

Actor Gerard Butler tweeted a photo of himself at the charred remains of his home in Malibu, along with a plea for his fans to help support those fighting the fires.

California Burning

Officials suspect utility lines may be to blame, and they are investigating reported transmission problems in areas where the fires began. That would explain the ignition, but why is this a perennial problem and why is there always so much loss of life and property in these events?

Three prior posts HERE and HERE and HERE address that topic.  Sadly, the solutions are difficult to develop and, more importantly, difficult to implement.  But if this week's loss of life is any impetus for action, something should be done.  Quickly.