CA Fires:
The Science Behind Them

Background

With its hot climate and dry summer seasons, California has a long history of wildfires. Coupled with its dense vegetation, urban sprawl, and shifting climate patterns, and you literally have an invitation to disaster. The fire incidents have grown in intensity and frequency over the last few years, shaping the course of communities and ecosystems. 

Significance of This Year’s Fires

The fires this year are unprecedented in size and rate of spread, due to the combination of prolonged drought and record heat waves. The acres burned and property damage have been higher this year than the averages of past years. The intensity has overwhelmed firefighting resources, leaving many to question what makes this year so exceptional.

The Science Behind California Fires

Wildfires are a combination of heat, oxygen, and fuel. A closer look at why the fires in California have gotten so bad: Drought and Vegetation: This drought in California has dried up vegetation; it has turned plants and trees into highly flammable fuel. When the water content in plants goes below the critical level, they ignite more easily.


High Temperatures: High temperatures cause increased evaporation, thus leaving soils and plants parched. Heat waves create an environment where even a small spark can trigger a massive blaze. Wind Patterns: Strong winds, such as the Santa Ana or Diablo winds, fan flames and carry embers over long distances, spreading fires rapidly.


Climate Change: The rising temperatures of the globe increase the length of the fire season and create conditions for more frequent and intense wildfires. Warmer winters mean less snowpack, which reduces water availability and increases vegetation dryness.


Human Activity: The leading cause of California's wildfires, at over 80%, includes power line malfunction, campfires, and arson. The growth of urban areas into wildland areas increases the chances of ignition.


Chemical Reactions: Wildfires release gases such as carbon dioxide and water vapor by breaking down cellulose in vegetation through pyrolysis. These reactions release enormous amounts of energy, keeping the fire cycle going.

What Can Affected Readers Do?

If you or your family are impacted by wildfires, here are some tips to protect yourself and your family:

Stay Informed: Monitor local fire updates and evacuation orders. Apps such as Cal Fire or NOAA Weather Radio can provide up to date information.

Create Defensible Space: Clear at least 30 feet around your home of flammable materials like dry leaves and debris  (Trim trees and shrubs regularly)

Prepare an Emergency Kit: Pack essentials such as water, food, medications, important documents, and a first aid kit.

Have an Evacuation Plan: Know multiple escape routes and keep your vehicle fueled. Communicate the plan with your household.

Stay Indoors: If evacuation is not mandatory but air quality is poor, stay indoors with windows closed. Use air purifiers if possible.

Monitor the CA Fires via this webpage: https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents 

Actions to Stay Safe

Report Fires Immediately: Call 911 if you see a fire in its early stages.

Avoid Outdoor Sparks: Do NOT use grilling or using power tools during redflag warnings.

Install Fire-Resistant Materials: Use noncombustible roofing and siding for homes in high-risk areas.

Support Community Efforts: Volunteer with local fire preparedness groups or donate to relief organizations assisting fire victims.

California’s fires are a devastating reminder of the extremes of nature, human impact, and science. By understanding the factors fueling these disasters and taking proactive steps, we can mitigate risks and protect lives for future diasters.

RESOURCES:

Emergency Services:

Emergency: Dial 911 for immediate assistance.

Los Angeles Fire Department: For non-emergency inquiries, call (213) 978-3800.


Shelter and Housing Assistance:

American Red Cross Los Angeles Region: Provides emergency shelter and support. Visit redcross.org/la or call (800) 733-2767

Airbnb Open Homes: Offers free temporary housing for evacuees. Check availability at https://www.airbnb.com/ 

Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA): For shelter assistance, call (213) 225-6581 or visit https://www.lahsa.org/

Food and Supplies:

Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Provides food assistance to those in need. Visit https://www.lafoodbank.org/  or call (323) 234-3030

World Central Kitchen: Offers meals to affected individuals. More information at https://wck.org/

Financial Assistance:

California Community Foundation Wildfire Relief Fund: Offers financial support to wildfire victims. Details at https://www.calfund.org/ 

California Fire Foundation: Provides emergency financial assistance to those affected by fires. Visit https://cafirefoundation.org/ or call (800) 890-3213

Transportation:

Uber and Lyft: Both companies are offering free rides to evacuation centers. Check their apps for more details.

Legal Assistance:

Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles: Provides free legal services to low-income individuals. Call (800) 399-4529 or visit https://lafla.org/

Utilities and Services:

Southern California Edison: For power outage information and assistance, call (800) 611-1911 or visit https://www.sce.com/ 

Southern California Gas Company: For gas service inquiries, call (877) 238-0092 or visit https://www.socalgas.com/

General Information and Updates:

CAL FIRE Incident Information: Stay updated on fire status at https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents 

Los Angeles County Emergency: For local emergency information, visit https://ready.lacounty.gov/Â