Wildfires in California and What we Can Do to Help: By Miranda Smith

Wildfires in California have sadly been a common thing, however as our climate continues to change in a negative way, they are becoming more and more common. 

On Tuesday, two wildfires were raging in California and doubled over night. Many people have had to leave their homes and evacuate from the burning area. About 700 fire fighters have rushed to the scene to try and stop the spread, but the strong winds have become their biggest enemy. In Orange Country, more than 90,000 people have been under emergency evacuation orders. The Silverado Fire has now burned 11,200 acres of land and the Blue Ridge fire, 8,000 acres. Containing these fires has become almost impossible. 

On Monday, the winds reached up to 80 mph spreading smoke and flames fast. Wildfires don't just affect people in the range of the flames, but smoke can travel so far making it unfit for people to go outside. Investigators are still trying to determine what started this particular fire, but they do understand that the burning of fossil fuels have led to warmer and dryer conditions. In California alone, 4.1 million acres have been destroyed by wildfires, 10,488 homes and structures have been destroyed, adding up to at least 31 deaths.

It may feel that there is nothing we can do to help but wait and hope the firefighters hard work puts an end to the raging flames, but there's actually quite a bit one can do. Raising funds for hydration back packs helps firefighters out immensely. One can also donate baby items to the families who have lost everything or even open up their home for them to stay until the future becomes more clear. Also, one can donate or volunteer to help the Humane Society save animals. Also donating to the food pantry is another major things that can help a lot in need. Lastly, doing as much as you can to help protect our environment and limit climate change can always help in situations like these. Try limiting your carbon footprint, go green, change your diet and ways of transportation. Wildfires are breaking out in California, and anything you can do will help. 

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/10/27/us/california-fires-updates.html?action=click&module=News&pgtype=Homepage

https://www.thathelps.com/ways-to-help-people-affected-by-california-wildfires/

https://en.reset.org/act/12-things-you-can-do-climate-change-0