I wish I had something better to write about (well, I do, we’ve had lots of fun stuff going on), but I am consumed with worry over the out-of-control wildfires that are ravaging my beloved Southern California.
We are safe. We can see the smoke and flames from the Thomas Fire, which is scary, but it’s several miles away from us. The Rye Fire is raging on another side, and we are getting the smoke from that one as well.
At the beginning of the year, we received more rain than we’ve had in years. The growth in our open spaces flourished, our hills were a gorgeous green color. But our wet winter was followed by a hot and dry summer, which was then followed by a hot and dry fall. The brush on the hills is dead and dry. A fire could not ask for better fuel.
On top of that, we’re experiencing something called Santa Ana winds. The Santa Anas blow hot, dry wind that lowers the relative humidity in the air, and can blow as fast as 40-60 miles an hour. It’s a horrible, perfect storm.
The smoke in the air is awful. We all woke up with sore throats. The kids’ schools are closed today, so we’ve been staying inside. But I did get some pictures yesterday when we were keeping some appointments.
Annie took this photo from the backseat, don’t worry.
I took this one this morning during the wind break, looking down our street:
As long as no other fires pop up, we should continue to be fine. We’re having a bit of a break in the wind, which is great, but unfortunately they are supposed to come back with a vengeance tomorrow and stay through the weekend. This is far from over.
We’re okay, but so many people are not. Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated, and hundreds of homes have been lost. My heart breaks for everyone who has lost their homes. It’s so terrible. It’s all so terrible.
For those wondering how to help, ABC has a great list of resources.
And thank you, thank you, thank you to all the first responders who are working tirelessly to keep us all safe. Please be careful.
Jeanie says:
Good thoughts and prayers for you and others who need them. It’s a tragic situation.
RzDrms says:
So…I know you’ve got this…but… I mean, on the news, the fires are literally surrounding you (it seems). Can you and your parents assuredly get out/evacuate if necessary? I understand, from all accounts, that those fires just *spread* so incredibly fast. I’ve been worried about you all day (TVs broadcasted the locations and images of the fires all day long).
Heather says:
We should be able to evacuate without any problems, assuming there aren’t any new fires that pop up. They definitely move fast but emergency services have been SO on top of things and give residents warnings long before they need to leave. That being said, it’s going to be insanely windy tonight…I have stuff in the car if we need to leave at a moment’s notice. But I honestly think we’ll be okay. My parents live up against open space so I’m a bit more worried about them, but they are packed and ready just in case. You’re the sweetest!
RzDrms says:
Thanks for the reply and for taking it seriously. However, I’m still sincerely concerned. Your packed car and thoughts that you can evacuate remind me so much of an article I read recently of other CA residents who literally said all the same things…. I imagine this is frustrating to hear from a stranger, and I know you’ve got this. I just have a bad feeling. I’ll be watching closely tomorrow.
Amber says:
I live in Huntington Beach. Several weeks ago when the fires were out of control in the Anaheim hills area, I couldn’t beleive the air….it smelled like burning plastic. One of the saddest things was watching videos of the wildlife trying to escape…running for their lives down the freeway.
My thoughts are with anyone affected by these recent fires. I love my Southern California also….my heartaches ??
Amber says:
Not sure why my comment left two question marks? Was trying to leave a sad face and a broken heart.
No question …..my heart really does ache.
Amber says:
Just now found out that a friend just lost everything due to the fires ….omg. Thinking of you and your family Heather
Violet says:
Just awful. I feel for you all down there. I am in Southern Oregon and the smoke was so bad for weeks, at times you couldn’t see the next street like ahead when normally you can see 3 in a row. It was like the worst fog, but it was smoke. We were told not to go
Outside unless absolutely necessary and no exercise etc. outdoors.
Canadian Jenn says:
What a scary time for everyone. Im in Alberta, Canada and this reminds me of the massive wildfire that burned through Fort McMurray a few years ago They evacuated the entire city of 90,000 people. Houses and businesses were burned to the ground. Amazingly no one lost their lives in the fire. Please keep safe and if you get an evacuation notice, DON’T WAIT.
Katrina says:
My husband is one of those first responders. I hate fire season!
Lynn says:
Glad to hear you’re all okay! Watching the news is so scary, even from Missouri! I can’t imagine!! Thinking of you guys!
Cathy K. says:
Keeping you and yours in my prayers, as well as all effected by the fires and the brave first responders. Hope you continue to be safe and well.
Bonniesmom says:
Worrying about you all, praying you and yours are doing well. Please let us know.
Chris says:
I keep checking for an update, I’m so worried about you guys. I’m in Oregon and the fires this summer got quite close to us, but nothing like what you guys are experiencing. Are you all alright?
Beth DeSombre says:
Hope the fires are staying at bay.
Beth DeSombre says:
Also, I’ve already (previously) liked your FB page.