Severe drought has returned to California for the first time in 18 months, intensifying concerns about the state’s ongoing wildfire battles. After a brief period of drought relief due to a wet spring in 2023, the latest U.S. Drought Monitor map shows that 0.08 percent of the state is now classified under severe drought, with San Bernardino County most affected. Severe drought can lead to longer fire seasons, decreased water levels, and dry vegetation, which fuels the flames currently engulfing parts of Southern California.
Three major wildfires – the Line Fire, Airport Fire, and Bridge Fire – have scorched hundreds of thousands of acres, with firefighters still struggling to contain them. The most contained of the three, the Line Fire, has burned 38,421 acres and is 36% contained as of Sunday. The fire remains active due to dry conditions, and firefighters are working to strengthen control lines. Light rain is forecasted, which could aid in efforts, but the situation remains precarious.
The Airport Fire in Orange and Riverside counties, now 19% contained, has burned 23,519 acres. Despite progress, fire behavior remains unpredictable due to dry vegetation, and containment lines are being reinforced to protect properties. Over 100 structures have been destroyed, and 14 injuries have been reported.
The least contained, the Bridge Fire, has grown to 54,567 acres with only 9% containment. Firefighters are working to establish lines, but challenging terrain and thick smoke have slowed efforts. The fire has destroyed dozens of homes and threatens over 12,000 structures.
The return of severe drought raises fears of more intense wildfires, especially as La Niña approaches, which typically brings below-average precipitation. With over 6,000 wildfires reported this year alone, Southern California’s firefight is far from over. While firefighters are making progress, the combination of severe drought and fire conditions poses an ongoing threat to communities across the region.
You’d think that, given how California deals with these problems every year, state government might start thinking about innovative solutions to the problem…right?
Are we allowed to talk about preventative maintenance yet, or are we still climate change deniers if we ask about that?
