November 2024 has seen extreme wildfire activity throughout California, with the state enduring one of the most disastrous fire seasons in the last few years. Prolonged drought conditions, high temperatures, and strong Santa Ana winds have combined to provide the perfect storm for wildfires to break out and spread rapidly.

In November, wildfires burned more than 300,000 acres, with several of those expected to keep growing into the rest of the month. There are 20 active wildfires, including major ones such as the Fresno Complex Fire and Ventura Canyon Fire, both highly destructive. More than 50,000 residents have been evacuated, mostly in counties like Los Angeles, Fresno, and Santa Barbara. Sadly, at least six firefighters have lost their lives in this season’s battles so far, showing the real risks taken by first responders.

Predisposing conditions of this year’s outbreaks are the extreme drought that left vegetation very dry and highly flammable, while the so-called Santa Ana winds reach 60 miles per hour and enhance propagation. Climate change, too, continues to play its part with ever-hotter temperatures and lengthening dry seasons, thereby making fire outbreaks worse across the state.

These wildfires have left thousands displaced, reducing homes, businesses, and key infrastructures to ashes. Huge parts of the region have reached hazardous breathing levels, with health warnings and school closures becoming a norm. Recovery and rebuilding will require vital resources from both state and federal governments. With wildfire season still on, officials ask all residents to pay attention to evacuation; the wildfires in November 2024 highlight California’s susceptibility to fire.