Natural disasters are catastrophic; mass death and destruction is hard to ignore. However, each one has the potential to help the environment. Floods fertilize topsoil, tsunamis completely rearrange it, tornadoes are capable of spreading seeds around to more diverse and safe places, earthquakes provide quicker oil and water extraction, and volcanic eruptions lead to new land masses. 

All of this begs the question: what about wildfires? 

Wildfires often thrive in dry, hot forests with a heavy population density. They are almost always caused by human error (a campfire getting out of control, fireworks gone wrong, and even something as little as a cigarette) or a lightning strike. 

But why in California? 

California has periods of intense wetness and dryness, called “whiplash.” This creates plenty of dry timber, perfect for burning. These wildfires cause thousands of species to lose their homes, the deaths of hundreds, and the loss of millions in property damage. This Califorian epidemic is devastating to all inhabitants. 

The most important thing we can do as citizens is work towards fire safety. Ways to prevent wildfires include putting out and monitoring campfires, adhering to fire restrictions in your area, regularly inspecting vehicles, making sure power tools are in good condition, as well as other equipment that may generate sparks. Make sure to notify nearby authorities if any power lines are down, and be especially careful.