“Beyond Blazes: Uncovering the Hidden Fuses Behind California’s Devastating Wildfires”
**Investigation Ongoing into Cause of Devastating California Wildfires**
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Investigators are searching for the cause of the devastating blaze that has killed at least 10 people, destroyed thousands of homes and businesses in the Los Angeles area. The fire, dubbed the Eaton Fire, was reported to have originated in the hilly, upscale neighborhood of Pacific Palisades, known for its Hollywood stars such as Jamie Lee Curtis and Billy Crystal.
According to National Fire Protection Association, lightning is the most common source of fires in the United States, but officials have already ruled out this possibility. There have been no reports of lightning in the Palisades area or in areas around the Eaton Fire.
The next two most common causes of fires are intentionally started fires and fires caused by utility lines. John Lentini, owner of Scientific Fire Analysis in Florida, has investigated fires in California, including the 1991 Oakland Hills Fire.
“It was just a small fire,” Lentini said. “People will be looking at where the fire started, identifying where it started, and looking around where it started and determining the cause.”
So far, there is no official indication that either fire was arson, nor have utility lines been identified as the cause.
The California Public Utilities Commission requires utilities to report to the California Public Utilities Commission when they learn of “an electrical incident that may be related to a wildfire.” CPUC staff then conducts an investigation to determine whether a violation of state law has occurred. Investigators determined that the 2017 Thomas Fire, one of the largest in state history, was started by Southern California Edison power lines coming into contact during high winds.
While lightning, arson, and utility lines are the most common causes of fires, debris ignition and fireworks are also common causes. However, fires can occur for many reasons, including accidents.
In 2021, a couple’s gender reveal stunt sparked a fire that burned nearly 36 square miles, destroyed five homes and 15 other buildings, and claimed firefighter Charlie Morton’s life.
The Eaton and Palisades fires continue to burn, with no indication of containment. Wind has eased, but no rain is expected as the flames spread across miles of dry land.
“When the fuel runs out or the weather stops, it goes out,” Lentini said. “They’re not going to take it out until it’s ready.”
**FAQs:**
* What is the current status of the Eaton Fire and Palisades Fire?
The two fires continue to burn, with no containment in sight. The Eaton Fire has killed at least 10 people, destroyed thousands of homes and businesses, while the Palisades Fire has destroyed multiple homes in the upscale neighborhood of Pacific Palisades.
* What are the potential causes of the fires?
The most common causes of fires are lightning, arson, and utility lines. However, debris ignition and fireworks are also common causes. Accidents can also lead to fires.
* Is the cause of the fires known?
No, the cause of the fires is still unknown. Investigators are working to determine the cause of the fires, but so far, no official indication of arson or utility lines has been found.
* What is the role of the California Public Utilities Commission in determining the cause of the fires?
The California Public Utilities Commission requires utilities to report to the commission when they learn of “an electrical incident that may be related to a wildfire.” CPUC staff then conducts an investigation to determine whether a violation of state law has occurred.
**Conclusion:**
The investigation into the cause of the devastating California wildfires continues, with no end in sight. With thousands of homes and businesses destroyed, and at least 10 people killed, the impact of the fires on the community is immeasurable. As investigators work to determine the cause of the fires, the community is left to pick up the pieces and move forward.
