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!
