Unusually strong Santa Ana winds, extreme drought, and a warming climate have combined to create a dangerous wildfire season in California.
Fires don't usually occur at this time of year, but several factors have combined to create a fast and deadly wildfire season. Strong Santa Ana winds are fueling the flames at unusually high speeds, exceeding 100 mph. This is exacerbated by a return to extreme drought conditions. Heavy rainfall earlier in the year led to rapid plant growth, which then dried out in record-high temperatures, creating highly flammable fuel.
A plunging jet stream and widespread power line disruptions also contribute to the danger. Wildfires have been rapidly spreading around Los Angeles, forcing thousands to evacuate their homes. Scientists have observed a concerning trend of increasingly fast-growing wildfires in recent decades, attributing it to a warming climate. These 'tiny, mighty and fast' fires are more destructive than larger, slower-burning blazes due to their rapid spread. Experts warn that the current wildfires could become the worst in California's history, with damage estimates potentially reaching $57 billion
Wildfires California Santa Ana Winds Climate Change Drought
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