California Heat Wave Continues to Produce Wildfires

Over a dozen major fires and multiple smaller fires have continued to erupt over the week as California struggles with the consequences of a heat wave that is expected to last through the weekend. These conditions combined with humid air has seen increasing temperatures and thunderstorms, both of which are exacerbating the risk of a wildfire starting. In Northern California, more than 250,000 acres were burning as of Wednesday evening, with multiple injuries and one death, a helicopter pilot who crashed while conducting water drops. In order to adhere to social distancing guidelines, municipalities have been opening up double the amount of shelters in order to house the same amount of evacuees in a non-pandemic environment, leading to shortages and confusion. A Cal Fire spokeswoman recommends that all state residents should be “ready to go” with bags already packed and their cars in position for a quick evacuation. Utilities should stay aware of their local threat environment as the situation in the state continues to be fast-changing. Read more at AP and Mercury News.