A little over a week ago, the L.A. fires started, uprooting the lives of thousands. Many people lost their homes, pets, and livelihoods.. California has some of the best wildfire protection policies in place; however, it was just not enough.
The fires started in the Palisades and quickly spread to other parts of California. With nearly 7,000 buildings destroyed or damaged, 11 people confirmed dead, and 23,700 acres burned. The Eaton fire broke out a couple of hours after the Palisade fires, started by the Santa Ana winds carrying embers. More than 14,000 acres were burned with 17 people confirmed dead, and roughly 11,500 buildings destroyed or damaged according to the L.A times.
The Santa Ana winds are a phenomenon that occurs from September to May. They feel warm and are known for spreading fire as they move North to East.
The firefighters in California are doing their best to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further or damaging anything else. Four firefighters from Grand Junction were sent out just over a week ago to try and assist with the fires. According to KCJT 8 “The team is stationed in Beaumont, California, assigned to the Encino Structure Protection Team.” They will be helping to prepare areas and buildings where the Palisades fire has not reached.
These two fires are quickly becoming one of the worst wildfire incidents in California history. People evacuated, leaving with only what they were able to carry. Many were forced to leave behind pets, photos, and all physical memories. As Social Studies teacher Taylor Briscoe comments, “It is absolutely tragic.”
Farms have been forced to leave their horses on the beach with food while they evacuate. Mothers have had to take their children and flee with no idea how they are going to move forward.
These fires are a tragedy to put it simply. We hope that they will stop soon, but we have no idea when they will.