$57 billion in damages, strong winds, more dangers: Southern California wildfires spread
Southern California is facing catastrophic losses as wildfires, driven by fierce winds, continue to devastate the region. Preliminary estimates of damages and losses shared by AccuWeather amount to $52-$57 billion, Kazinform News Agency reports.
Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter explained the details of the tragic disaster and further issues the region might face.
Porter described the events unfolding as “one of the worst wildfires in California history”. He highlighted that, “Should a large number of additional structures be burned in the coming days, it may become the worst wildfire in modern California history based on the number of structures burned and economic loss.”
The wildfires, fueled by hurricane-force winds gusting at 70-100 mph, have destroyed entire communities and forced thousands to flee.
“This is a terrible disaster. We’re just starting to get a clear look at the magnitude of the destruction and loss,” he said.
He explained that the conditions fueling the fires stem from recent weather patterns.
“The last two wet seasons in Southern California were plentiful with rainfall, mountain snowfall and even flooding. This allowed vegetation to flourish. The jet stream is located much farther north compared to the historical average thus far this winter, bringing rain and mountain snow to the Pacific Northwest and even some storms to Northern California,” he said.
However, a lack of rain in recent months has left this vegetation dry and ready to burn.
“The last two wet seasons led to an abundance of grass and vegetation growth in Southern California. That extra vegetation has all dried out over the summer months, fall and into the early part of the winter and is now essentially tinder that can fuel these fires,” he added.
In addition to the many dangers, air quality has also become a major concern. Hazardous smoke from burning homes, businesses, and chemicals is spreading across the Los Angeles area.
Porter warned, “In areas of poor air quality, people in the area should use N95 respirator masks and limit their time outdoors to reduce their exposure to this wildfire smoke.”
Earlier reports from Kazinform News Agency revealed that the fires have already claimed 5 lives, forced 130,000 evacuations, and caused severe damage from the Pacific Coast to Pasadena. Efforts to control the fires continue as tragedy progresses, fueled by strong winds and new fire sites.
