I don’t know if the fires here in Southern California are getting much news play outside of the region, but in case you are unaware, there are several very large wildfires currently blazing in Southern California. The warm Santa Ana winds that keep our Autumn weather in the 70s and 80s are whipping the fire around to the consternation of fire fighters.
Photo from LA Times
While my apartment in Long Beach is far away from any danger, several of my husband’s and my friends and family members live near (but not in any danger at the moment) to the fires. To give you an idea of the magnitude of these fires, I live 30 miles from one and 50 miles from the other, but we never saw the sun today, the sky was so choked with smoke. I just walked by my car and it is covered in layer of ash.
My heart goes out to the hundreds upon hundreds of people who now find themselves homeless. Those who live in apartments or mobile homes especially have my compassion, as they often don’t own any insurance. Everything they own is gone, and they likely have no financial recourse to replace what was lost.
Most importantly, to the families of those who lost someone in the fires. You are in my prayers. May the memory of your loved one comfort you and be a blessing to you.
Update: When I first wrote this post, the news was reporting that there were potentially dozens killed in a mobile home park, but now, after the police have been able to search through the park, it looks like no one died there, and so far, no where else either. Thank G-d!
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Our hearts go out to them also.
It is hard to comprehend what they must be going through, and how fierce that fire is, but it is a terrible thing. We have been watching it on the news tonight.
Jen
We’ve been seeing and hearing about the fires. I also have an online friend who’s married to one of the firefighters at one of the fires. It’s a scary thing…even worse than a hurricane, because, unless you live right on the coast, you have a chance that you’ll survive the hurricane…not as much hope with a fire storm.
Wow. My deepest sympathy to all who have suffered. Fires are such a scary thing.
Jen — They made the news in Canada?!
Nancy — Actually, wildfires are a lot like hurricanes, only in reverse. They involve hurricane force winds, but instead of dropping water, they whip up fire, and instead of attacking the coast, they hit the foothills.
Gen — It’s funny. Humans have conquered so much, and learned to control nature in so many ways. But then, something like a horrible wildfire or tornado comes along and reminds us just how fragile our existence really is.
i live in napa..but was born and raised in southern california..in pasadena…my entire family still lives there.. we have good friends living in santa barbara..and living in the anaheim hills. so far, everyone is o.k. but i am keeping everyone in so cal in my thoughts and prayers..
diane
thanks for the comment to my blog!!
Yup, definitely all over the news about the wildfires. A lot of it has to do with Oprah Winfrey’s house being in the line of ‘fire’. I couldn’t imagine living with that fear. Best wishes for all.
Yes, Its really sad to read about the wild fires and think about all the people who lost their homes and belongings. My deepest sympathy to all of them and pray for all.
Diane — I hope your friends and family stay safe.
Tina — Heh. I forgot, stars are involved so the media cares.
Sarada — I can’t even imagine what it is like to lose everything.
I know the fires are so scary. My brother lives in one of the areas and was evacuated. The winds were raging and he said a wall of fire was coming down the street! His neighborhood survived with minor damage thanks to the wonderful firefighters. They are back home now. But the situation can always change.
What is so sad about fire is that you lose everything. You have to start completely over. How hard.
Theresa — I’m glad your brother’s neighborhood was largely untouched.