Part 4/9:
But the intensity of the current fires goes beyond just climate change. Heavy rainfall in early 2023 led to abundant plant growth, which later dried out in 2024, creating a perfect storm of combustible vegetation. Adding to the fire's ferocity are abnormally strong Santa Ana winds, which facilitate rapid fire spread and hinder firefighting efforts.
While we can attribute some aspects of this fire’s conditions to climate change, local human factors cannot be overlooked. Urban development in fire-prone areas, the construction of easily flammable homes, and electrical systems that exacerbate fire risks contribute to the disaster.