Opinion: Natural disaster — can it happen here?

Early this year, a combination of conditions developed in Southern California to create a “perfect storm” for devastating wildfires. Winds that usually blow into the Los Angeles region from the Pacific Ocean shifted to Santa Ana winds that sweep across the desert. These winds are hot and dry, and they can reach a velocity up to 100 miles per hour. Moreover, the L.A. basin was already unseasonably arid, having experienced very little rain. Meteorologists say that it’s been the “driest start to the rainy season on record.” So, vegetation was parched and highly flammable.

When fires broke out, they were fanned by the roasting Santa Anas and fueled by thirsty vegetation. Homes and businesses that stood in their path were easily consumed, leaving behind a trail of death and destruction. At this writing, we know of 25 fatalities and more than 12,000 destroyed structures. A few days ago, the estimated cost of the damage was $250 billion. Today, it is $275 billion, and I have a feeling that by the time this article makes it into print, the cost will be even higher both in terms of lives and dollars.

The question that should be in all our minds is: Can it happen here in Madera?