By: Avery Zhang

Flames blaze across California skylines as efforts to rescue and stop the wildfire continue. At least 24 people have died and over 150,000 have been evacuated so far. The fires have burned over 40,000 acres and attempts to contain the fire have only gained a bit of traction.

This year, California is especially dry. Downtown Los Angeles has only received 0.16 inches of rain since October. Powerful gusts of wind known as the Santa Ana have also increased the wildfire risk. The exact cause of the wildfire is still unknown, and local officers have been searching for it. Combined with these conditions, residents have been speculating about the possibilities: Could it be old embers, power lines, or even arson? Everything is up in the air. But this is essential to figure out, as it will allow us to prevent future fires and protect the people of California.

Losing a home is an extremely tough and traumatizing experience. Not only will many memories be lost, it will also unroot so many people and cause so much suffering. By donating just a few dollars, your funds can be directed towards the efforts to help all these unrooted people and families. Here are a few links to where you can help:

https://www.cafirefoundation.org/what-we-do/for-communities/disaster-relief
https://www.calfund.org/funds/wildfire-recovery-fund/
https://www.gofundme.com/c/act/wildfire-relief/california
https://wildfirerecovery.caloes.ca.gov/all/volunteer-and-donate-2/