California Faces Early Surge in Wildfires

Summer is just beginning, but wildfires in California have already burned more than 90,000 acres.

2 minute read

June 24, 2024, 7:00 AM PDT

By Clement Lau


Wildfire burning at night on hillsides next to Lake Elsinore, California.

Wildfire burning near Lake Elsinore, California. | Kevin Key / Adobe Stock

California's wildfire season has started intensely, with over 90,000 acres burned by June 20, stretching firefighting resources thin and prompting evacuations. As reported by Grace Toohey, perilous weather conditions, including strong winds, low humidity, and high temperatures, have fueled more than 30 wildfires from Los Angeles County to Colusa County, with two major fires rapidly surpassing 15,000 acres each. This early surge in wildfire activity is causing concern among officials about the upcoming hotter months and the potential for even more fires.

The National Weather Service has issued excessive heat warnings across much of Southern California, predicting temperatures up to 105 degrees, exacerbating the risk of wildfires. The recent fires have primarily been grass fires driven by windy conditions, with significant burns reported in the Post Fire near Gorman and the Sites Fire in Colusa County. Despite fewer overall fires compared to the five-year average, the acreage burned is significantly higher, indicating that the landscape is primed for rapid fire spread.

Experts like research ecologist Chad Hanson emphasize that climate change and weather patterns are influencing wildfire behavior, with higher global temperatures and extreme weather conditions adding challenges to fire suppression efforts. While not all wildfires are detrimental, as many ecosystems depend on post-fire habitats, the primary concern is the impact on human communities. Officials are advocating for a focus on protecting human life and development and urging the public to take preventive measures to reduce wildfire risks.

Saturday, June 22, 2024 in Los Angeles Times

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

July 2, 2025 - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog