This year’s record rainfall could fuel damaging wildfires

After a very wet winter season with record-breaking rainfall, the Coachella Valley and surrounding areas are lush with flora.

The recent rains have made a drastic improvement in the state’s drought but the now green mountains may provide firefighters with a busy fire season.

Nearby areas that are at risk of wildfire include the land surrounding Thermal, Pinyon, Idyllwild and Yucca Valley. Captain Lucas Spelman, Cal Fire Public Information Officer, explained: “we have a lot of grass now that is very flammable and it allows all the other fuels that have either died or are in the state of shock to be ignited a lot quicker”.

He continued to explain them as “ladder fuels” where low-level grasses could easily bring flames to new locations and taller vegetation. Most of the plants in the Coachella Valley and in the desert-like mountain areas are oil based. The same oil that helps plants protect themselves from the weather also make it more susceptible to catching fire.

The majority of wildfires, 95% in fact, are started by humans. Whether it be car fires on the side of the road, welding in dry conditions, campsites or even backyard barbecues, humans are more likely to initiate a wildfire as opposed to natural elements such as lightning.

While fires are possible year-round, the drier months of July, August, and September provide better conditions for flames to spread. Southern California experiences the most intense fires in the months of October and November when the Santa Ana winds develop.

For information on how you can prepare your home and plan for your family, visit www.readyforwildfire.org.