WILDFIRES: Cal Fire says threat remains despite cooler weather
By BRIAN ROKOS / STAFF WRITEREven as Cal Fire crews in the Inland Empire train for anticipated swift-water rescues brought on by El Niño storms, the state firefighting agency is warning that wildfire season in Southern California is not over.
Cal Fire said in a news release Monday, Nov. 16, that staffing remains at that of peak fire season in Southern California and Central California. Vegetation remains dry, and dead trees pose a risk of quickly spreading flames.
"Even with the increased likelihood of precipitation due to El Niño, it will still take several years of steady rainfall for some of the larger vegetation to return to normal levels, and no amount of rain will bring back millions of bark beetle infested dead and dying trees across the state," Cal Fire Chief Ken Pimlott said. "We can't let our guard down, especially with changing climate conditions leading to longer fire seasons and larger wildfires."
Flames that escape debris piles are a leading cause of wildfires this time of year, Cal Fire said. Residents should ensure that burning is allowed in their area and that they have permits. Debris should be in piles that are no wider than four feet in diameter with 10 feet of bare dirt clearance around them, Cal Fire said.
An adult should monitor the burning and keep a shovel and water nearby.
Across California, there were more than 8,100 wildfires that burned almost 825,000 acres in 2015.--
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