Wildfires wreck California

By Lucy Joyce

Editors Assistant

Recent wildfires have swept havoc across the state of California leaving citizens suffering in its midst and despite all the hard work the fire departments and forest workers are doing, people still believe there's room for improvement in their efforts for the future.

According to fire.ca.gov, the wildfires burned 57,687 acres, resulting in 29 deaths. Photo courtesy of ap.com

It is believed that the wild fires were caused due to climate change, dry weather, and the public being irresponsible with cigarettes or other similar items.

“They have something called the Santa Ana winds,” said social studies teacher Mrs. Mayster, “these winds gust at over 100mph.” 

Many experts and citizens feel that the local fire departments and US Forest preserve are actively putting the work in to stop the fires. However, they also feel that more should have been done before these fires to prevent them from getting so bad. 

“There was no water in the fire hydrants in some areas because it had not been transferred there. In addition, I think not enough clearing of brush and undergrowth happened,” Mayster said.

Even if these issues in California are not directly affecting people here, there are ways people can still help. Being educated, spreading the word, or even donating helps people in California being hit by the wildfires right now as well as the people working to put them out.

“I have been donating to the Red Cross. I don't know anyone in LA who is affected by the fires but it has caused me to pay more attention to the issue of wildfires and the struggles of people affected by them.” said social studies teacher Mrs. Mikal.

As a student, being informed and learning more about these issues is a great way to support the people in California struggling because of these fires.

“Find trustworthy sources but don’t be afraid to read things with some bias, just separate out the facts from the opinions. In addition, read more than one source if you’re truly interested in learning more,” said Mayster who tries her best to stay informed.

As a teacher, Mayster likes to stay as educated as possible.

“My goal is usually to stay informed and learn as much as I can. That way if it comes up in conversation, I can speak from an informed place. My students who follow the news usually have questions and I would like to give them correct information,” Mayster said.

Although these wildfires have affected every person in LA, some families will have a harder time bouncing back. Low income households will need extra help to get back on track than those living more comfortably.

“There’s no homes right now in Pasadena, and if there are, they’re over our budget,” said Emily Ramirez to journalist Erin Rode with High Country News.