3 differences About the 2020 California Wildfires
The California Wildfires have been making the headlines for weeks with the fires ever growing and the destruction left behind becoming more devastating by day. It’s an understatement to say that there’s a lot going on in the world right now, with elections, unemployment rates, and of course - the Covid-19 pandemic. It can be hard to keep up with endless headlines of important breaking news. That’s why we wanted to help out our readers with a succinct list of 3 Things to Know about the California Wildfires. We hope this list will help you stay informed in these ever changing times. Wildfires are nothing new for California. In fact, the state dedicates an entire season for these fires that typically last from May - October. However, the wildfires this year are different than normal and here’s why:
DROUGHT & HEAT - With the state already in the midst of a several year long drought, a record-breaking heat wave resulted this summer that brought triple digit temperatures and even caused rolling blackouts as utilities failed to meet demands for cooling.
LIGHTING & STORMS - Humidity levels in the state rose to unusual levels this season, partly from tropical storms. However, the combination of humidity with the intense heat generated storms that brought high winds, thunder, and lighting but very little rain. The wind from the storms as well as the lighting assisted in the rapid pace these fires were sparked and continued to spread. It should be noted that wildfires sparked from lighting is also an unusual factor to this year’s conditions with about 80% of all wildfires in California being caused by human activity.
SIZE - The fires this season have been noted as record breaking and some of the worst in California history. As of September 27th, 2020 over 2 million acres have burned. That’s compared to the over 40,000 acres that burned by the same time last year in September 2019.
WHAT’S EXPECTED NEXT:
While fire season typically ends around October, this final month has proven throughout history to actually be the peak of the wildfires. Out of the 10 deadliest wildfires in California history, eight of these burned in October or November. With six months of hot and dry weather building up, these final months are fueled with trees, shrubs, and grass that have normally gone the entire season without rain. The fire crews of California are gearing up and preparing for what many believe could be the worst that’s yet to come.
HOW TO HELP:
During the pandemic, many Americans have retreated to the outdoors for both social distance gatherings and to find relief from working / schooling from home. However, with the air quality diminishing as a result of the wildfires, Californians are being advised to limit their time outdoors. Smoke exposure can also be particularly harmful towards children. For those who have been forced to evacuate their homes, many are finding limits to local shelters while they try to combat the spread of Covid-19. Food banks have also taken a strain from the demand of both wildfire evacuees and those who have lost their jobs during the pandemic. Donating to organizations combating the wildfires and/or Covid-19 can help support these impacted communities.
Below you’ll find a list of ways to donate:
· The American Red Cross – Western Wildfires Donation
· California Wildfire Relief Fund
· Go Fund Me – Wildfire Relief Fund
· California Association of Food Banks
Sources:
1. www.fire.ca.gov/stats-events/
2. www.vox.com/2020/8/21/21377181/california-wildfire-2020-scu-lnu-lightning-complex-climate-change
3. www.patch.com/california/across-ca/california-wildfires-2020-5-essential-things-know
4. www.mercurynews.com/2020/08/30/california-fires-what-to-expect-in-the-coming-months/
5. www.doi.gov/wildlandfire/wildfires-covid-19
6. www.cdc.gov/disasters/covid-19/reduce_exposure_to_wildfire_smoke_covid-19.html
