Shocking images are coming out of California where multiple fires are ravaging Los Angeles, leaving death and destruction in their wake. A mixture of dried brush and heavy winds created the perfect conditions for these California fires that closed down major freeways, evacuated entire cities, and caused major property damage — with no sign of slowing down.
California Fires Raging Right Now
Why does California have so many fires?
2011 – 2016 saw some of the driest years on record for California, with relief coming in early 2017’s heavy rainfall. The rains revived the state’s water reserves and even caused some major flooding, and the drought was declared officially over in April. But with the rain came growing brush and vegetation that has since dried out, providing heaps of fuel for deadly wildfires all across California.
The dry conditions, excess brush, and strong Santa Ana winds (featuring gusts up to 60 mph) are the perfect storm for serious fires. All it takes is a burning cigarette butt, a firecracker, or an ember from a nearby fire to start a chain reaction.
With multiple large fires already raging across Los Angeles County, Californians worry that until the Santa Ana winds die down, the potential for more fires to start up are high.