Wildfire is a natural part of the California ecosystem because we have what you could call a ‘fire climate.’

Most of our precipitation occurs in winter. During summer, there is very little rain and warmer temperatures, so we have more moisture leaving the plants due to transpiration than what is being absorbed. With drier fuels, it’s easier for fires to start and spread.

One thing working for us is the Sierra snowpack, which acts as a delayed release of moisture, slowly melting as we get into fire season. One thing working against us is that right around the peak of fire season is when California sees the most lightning, which can ignite fires.

However, most fires are started by humans, and while fire suppression is necessary to protect life and property, it leads to the accumulation of fuels and promotes more burning when fire danger is highest.


Source:
Ch 2: Fire In California's Ecosystems 2nd ed


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