California Wildfires: Latest Updates

As Fires Worsen, A Mental Health Crisis For Those Battling Them

February 26, 2021

Wildfires are burning more frequently and intensely in a warming world, making them harder to put out. Some fire agencies are expanding support as they see increased cases of anxiety and depression.

Map: See If You Could Be Affected By PG&E's Jan. 18 Shutoff

January 17, 2021 | Chris Hagan

PG&E says it may cut power to around 5,465 customers in Fresno, Kern, Madera, Mariposa, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Tulare counties starting Monday night to try and prevent its equipment from starting wildfires.

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Here’s What California Lawmakers Want To Do To Prevent The Wildfire Crisis From Getting Worse

January 15, 2021 | Ezra David Romero

California lawmakers are dreaming up big ideas to prevent future wildfires from devastating communities. Bills this session explore banning development in high fire severity zones, making utilities more accountable and a bond for wildfire prevention.

Whack And Stack: PG&E’s Toppling Of Trees Creates New Hazards

December 19, 2020

In an attempt to prevent wildfires, the utility is removing vegetation from around power lines. But it’s leaving downed trees on people’s property that are “little fire bombs waiting to ignite,” one expert says.

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California’s Final Frontier Faces Firefighter Shortage

November 12, 2020

When the state consolidates inmate fire camps next month, remote Modoc County is left with few resources to prevent and battle its lightning-sparked fires

Northern California Wildfires: Where To Find Updates On Air Quality, Evacuations, And Official Information

November 9, 2020

Here’s the latest information on the wildfires burning throughout Northern California.

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California Protects Homeowners From Having Fire Insurance Dropped — Again

November 6, 2020

The state extends temporary protection from insurance cancellations to 2.1 million Californians living in wildfire-prone regions, but long-term solutions to stabilize the market remain elusive.

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California Has Issues With Wildfire Data, And Experts Say It's Complicating The Fire Fight

October 29, 2020 | Ezra David Romero

California has a data issue and that’s a big deal as fire seasons worsen. A new report highlights the need for cities and agencies to create a uniform system to share information. That could save lives and reduce losses from wildfires.

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With No Rain In View, Gusty Winds Keep Parts Of Northern California Under Red Flag Warning

October 26, 2020 | Ezra David Romero

Winds as fast as 94 miles-per-hour sped through parts of Northern California Sunday and Monday, which prompted red flag warnings. With no rain on the horizons the gusts are expected to remain into Tuesday, increasing fire danger.

How To Vote In A Pandemic When You’ve Lost Your Home In A Wildfire

October 25, 2020

For thousands of people who have lost their homes to wildfires this year, mail-in voting poses unique challenges.