California Wildfires: Are They Really Over?

The question on many people's minds during this time of year is whether the wildfires in California have finally subsided. The truth is, the risks are far from over. Just lately, mandatory evacuation notices have been on the rise, and it seems like another dangerous fire season is upon us. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current situation and what one can expect in terms of fire risks.

Current Fire Situations in California

While the major Northern California fire, the Kincade Fire, is almost extinguished, there are still numerous active fires across the state. As of November 22, 2019, at 11:45 AM Pacific Standard Time, there are 260 fires listed, all of which are 100% contained. However, this statistic can be misleading. Containment means the fire is no longer growing, but it doesn't guarantee the fire is out or won't reignite under certain conditions. A thorough understanding of the current fire situation requires consulting the CALFIRE website.

Understanding the Season of Fires in California

Fires in California are a natural part of the environment, especially during the fall and early winter months. The seasonal patterns, particularly the Santa Ana winds, play a significant role in fire frequency and intensity. These dry, hot, and often gusty winds dry out vegetation and fuel the fires, turning small blazes into major infernos in a matter of hours.

Is it possible to build houses that are fireproof? Theoretically, yes, but practically, modern living in California often sees compromises. Concrete and steel can provide a high degree of fire resistance, but they are not always feasible due to cost, weight, and aesthetics. Many homeowners opt for homes that can be quickly evacuated in case of emergency, relying on proactive measures like wetting down roofs and having fireproof clothing readily available. But as we've seen in the last fire seasons, relying solely on such measures can be perilous.

Case Study: A Real-Life Scare During the Getty Fire

The Getty Fire, which took place in 2019, highlights the perils of underestimating the threat of wildfires. Here's a case in point:

A home owner and her husband were caught in the path of the Getty Fire, located near their property. They had plans to use a pump to draw water from a neighbor's pool to combat the fire. However, they lacked essential safety gear, such as protective clothing and breathing apparatus. Instead, they believed they could quickly leave their house by driving down a winding road to a supposed evacuation zone. This plan proved to be a fatal mistake. When the fire approached their neighborhood, their house burned down, and they were tragically killed because they underestimated the power of the wildfire. The situation underscores the importance of proper preparation and emergency planning.

Personal Prep: How One Individual Prepared for Evacuation

My personal experience during the 2019 fire season offers a vivid illustration of the steps one can take to prepare for imminent danger. Last year, when the evacuation zone was just a 5-mile radius from my residence, I collected my important valuables, documents, and Olympic memorabilia. Additionally, I loaded my vehicle with dog food and essentials, ready for a swift exit.

When the fire's threat advanced to within 3 miles of my house, I prepared to evacuate at a moment's notice. I gathered up my dog, Larry, and we left quickly. By the time others were leaving 15 minutes later, I was already on the freeway, moving at a speed of 80 to 90 miles per hour – much faster than the others heading the same direction. I reached a friend's home where I could relax and keep an eye on the situation. Fortunately, the wind shifted and the fire never reached my area, but the incident served as a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared.

Conclusion: Always Be Prepared

While the major fires may be under control, the risks of smaller fires and unpredictable fire conditions are ever-present. The best course of action is to stay vigilant, follow updates from reliable sources like CALFIRE, and always be ready to evacuate if necessary. The Santa Ana winds and other environmental factors mean that we can never take fire season lightly. Being informed and prepared could mean the difference between staying safe and facing a devastating emergency.