As the planet heats up, as a direct consequence of anthropogenic (human-mediated) 'greenhouse gas' emissions, weather systems become more powerful. This is well-illustrated by the Santa Ana windstorms, currently decimating parts of Southern California. These windstorms have isolated gusts of up to 160 kph in mountainous and foothill areas, that have seen no substantial rain for several months. There are consequently all the ingredients, in this area, for firestorms. Currently, three separate major fires are raging in Southern California, with the coastal area between Santa Monica and Malibu being a particular focus. In total, the three outbreaks cover 4500 acres of land. More than 25,000 California residents are currently facing evacuation orders (6 refuges are operational) and 10,000 homes are threatened by incineration. More than 1400 firefighters are struggling to contain these 'unprecedented' blazes (https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/live/2025/jan/07/southern-california-wildfire-windstorm-live-updates). Whilst this is, of course, horrific for folk in Southern California, sadly, this may be the 'shape of things to come'. Even if there was a massive decline in 'greenhouse gas' emissions (highly unlikely), the impact on climate will ratchet up for decades.' Extreme' weather events are likely to become the norm. These Southern California fires might be currently 'unprecedented', but dry conditions and strong winds are likely to prevail in this location.
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