Although the number of wildfires has increased by less than 10%, California’s natural disasters have worsened significantly, according to state fire officials.
Despite a gradual increase in wildfires so far this year, 89,784 acres have burned across the Golden State — a 1,462% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The nearly 2,156 fires have destroyed 13 buildings and damaged nine others, according to the release. to Cal Fire.
Three fires in June scorched more than half of the state’s land. The trio of fires is also three times more than the five-year average.
The most destructive so far this year is the Place Fire in Colusa County, northwest of Sacramento, that burned 19,124 hectares. As of June 19, crews had the fire 10% contained and no structures had been destroyed.
Jason Armond
The most destructive fire to date in Southern California occurred last weekend Post firethat consumed 15,690 hectares, damaged 11 structures, destroyed two buildings and injured one person.
The only other fire to cover more than 10,000 hectares was the Corral fire in San Joaquin County on June 1. Firefighters had the 14,168 hectare fire completely under control in five days. One building was destroyed and two firefighters were injured.
Cal Fire claims 95% of the recent forest fires are caused by humans, but fueled by dry grass and strong winds. The agency said residents can help fight fires by not mowing after 10 a.m., making sure their tow chains don’t drag on roads and never pulling their cars in dry grass.
