Wildfires in California: Everything You Need to Know

Stay Informed with Real-Time Wildfire Updates

Stay ahead of the flames with these essential resources:

Cal Fire Wildfire Map: Track active wildfires in real-time, including their perimeters and containment status.
Wildfire Smoke Map: Monitor smoke concentrations and air quality to protect your health.
Frontline App: Stay notified of wildfires near your location with push notifications and personalized alerts.

California's fire season typically runs from May to November, with peak activity occurring between July and October.

Multiple factors increase California's wildfire risk:

Climate Change: Rising temperatures and prolonged droughts create drier vegetation, which fuels larger and more intense fires.
Combustible Vegetation: California has vast expanses of dense forests, shrublands, and grasslands that provide ample fuel for wildfires.

Human Activities:

Follow these steps to reduce your home's vulnerability to wildfires:

Clear vegetation within 100 feet of your home: Remove trees, shrubs, and other flammable materials.
Install ember-resistant roofing and siding: Metal, concrete, or tile materials can prevent flying embers from igniting your home.
Maintain a defensible zone: Create a buffer zone between your home and surrounding vegetation by pruning tree branches, clearing underbrush, and watering your lawn regularly.

Prepare an evacuation plan in case of a wildfire:

Identify multiple evacuation routes: Have several options in mind to avoid potential road closures.
Prepare an emergency kit: Pack essential supplies, including water, food, medications, important documents, and a first-aid kit.
Stay informed: Monitor official wildfire updates and evacuate immediately if instructed to do so.