California Wildfires 2018

[margarita25]

“Officials warned of increased fire danger this weekend: a red-flag warning has been issued for Saturday night to Sunday afternoon — due to expected strong wind gusts that could worsen the fire. Wind speeds are expected to be 45 to 55 mph.

But there is relief in sight: Next week on Wednesday and Thursday, rain is expected, which would greatly help firefighters get an upper hand.“

Camp Fire: Death toll grows to 71, missing list grows to 1,011

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More than 1,000 people unaccounted for in California wildfires

“Firefighters gained ground against the two deadly California wildfires on Friday but residents in northern parts of the state faced a new threat: the dirtiest air quality levels in the world.

Rain could help knock down the flames Tuesday evening but officials said it could also complicate efforts to find human remains. In some cases, search crews were finding little more than bones and bone fragments.“

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California throws lifeline to PG&E over potential Camp Fire liability

“No cause has been determined, but speculation has centered on PG&E, which reported an outage around the time and place the fire ignited. The death toll from the so-called Camp Fire has risen to at least 63, with hundreds of people still unaccounted for. California state investigators in June faulted PG&E-owned power lines for sparking a dozen blazes in Northern California in the fall of 2017 that killed 46 and incinerated nearly 9,000 homes and other structures.”

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List of unaccounted for people after Camp Fire swells to more than 1,000

https://www-m.cnn.com/2018/11/16/us/california-fires/index.html?r=https://www.google.com/

“The sheriff said the list will fluctuate in number because it is raw data that needs to be refined.
The death toll is now 71 after eight sets of remains were found Friday, Honea said.”

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“SAN FRANCISCO — While the shocking death toll and images of destruction from the Camp Fire in Northern California have dominated headlines, its thick blanket of unhealthy smoke has paralyzed communities across a large swath of the state, creating a public health crisis for millions of residents spread out over hundreds of miles.“

Far from California fires, smoke shuts schools and idles cable cars

 

[cybervampira]

WATCH LIVE: Officials provide the latest information about the Camp Fire burning in Butte County. Full fire coverage here: Camp Fire: Death toll hits 71; sheriff says more than 1,000 still missing

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[margarita25]

A search and rescue dog searches for human remains at the Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif on Nov. 16, 2018.John Locher / AP

California wildfires: Where things stand

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I nominate this photo for the cover of National Geographic or Time Magazine. It is a very very powerful photo imo:

A horse is spooked as the Woolsey Fire moves through a property in Agoura Hills on Nov. 9.Matthew Simmons / Getty Images

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An aerial view of a neighborhood destroyed by the Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. Fueled by high winds and low humidity, the wildfire ripped through the town, charring more than 140,000 acres and killing more than 70 people.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

More Than 1,000 People Now Listed As Missing In California's Deadliest Fire

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California's fire dilemma: Rebuild knowing same homes will burn again?

 

[margarita25]

My opinion and HOPE at this time is that since there is a lot of chaos going on right now, the number of the missing will significantly reduce in time.

 

[pandamonium]

It just keeps getting worse . . the numbers keep getting higher. So many are struggling. My sister saw my dad and is pretty sure he is getting depressed. This is a STRONG man, people. He is a Marine, he lost his legs, he survived 2 heart attacks in June, 1st of which should have killed him. He has a purple heart. He does not give up.

She saw him today, he hasn't showered since Tues and is in shock, like a zombie. I'm so worried about them. How do you start over when you are in your 70's, 80''s, 90's? They have no idea what to do, where to go. My sister walks them thru who to call, what to do, but they are in shock and disbelief. And, they are luckier than some with a temporary roof over their heads. It's just unbelievably sad...

 

[margarita25]

It just keeps getting worse . . the numbers keep getting higher. So many are struggling. My sister saw my dad and is pretty sure he is getting depressed. This is a STRONG man, people. He is a Marine, he lost his legs, he survived 2 heart attacks in June, 1st of which should have killed him. He has a purple heart. He does not give up.

She saw him today, he hasn't showered since Tues and is in shock, like a zombie. I'm so worried about them. How do you start over when you are in your 70's, 80''s, 90's? They have no idea what to do, where to go. My sister walks them thru who to call, what to do, but they are in shock and disbelief. And, they are luckier than some with a temporary roof over their heads. It's just unbelievably sad...

Words in a post can not express my sincerity when I say that my heart goes out to your dad, and everyone affected by all of this. Your father sounds like such an amazing and strong man. He served our county and I hope our country will serve him back to the best of her ability. You remind us here how especially difficult this is for the elderly and disabled. Thank goodness your sister is helping him. I know you must be so worried, remember that all of this is very very fresh and I hope and think that in time your dad will feel better. May your father have a new home soon where he can feel happy and comfortable again.

I want to try to look more for positive, helpful, healing resources to link here.

Hang in there. I know it’s easy for me to say . Hugs!!

 

[margarita25]

How to help those affected by the California wildfires
NOV 14, 2018 4:00 PM EST CBS THIS MORNING
CBS NEWS

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How to Help Those Affected by the California Fires
The New York Times Nov. 11, 2018

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How to help those affected by the California wildfires
PBS Nov 13, 2018

 

[pandamonium]

So, I don't know if this is appropriate (or allowed) but I'm so touched and moved that I'm going to share this. Please delete if not appropriate. Please note I am NOT sharing to solicit donations but to share the heartfelt support and sympathy of people stepping up in such a horrific tragedy.

If you're on FB, please give them some love. We did NOT solicit this post but my sister supports their organization to send shirts to deployed veterans and they posted this on their page tonight (family's named block for privacy but you'll see it on FB if you so choose):

This was such a heartfelt response I'm just bursting at the seams and am so grateful that strangers have been so kind to our family. Their page is called Hawaiian Shirts for Deployed Soldiers:

This is what they wrote:
*****************************************************

Let’s get serious for a few minutes.

I need y’all to hear the name G****S. Look at that name. Memorize it. I’ll wait.

Got it? It’s G** He’s something else, gang. He’s one of our heroes! He served our country in Vietnam. G** came away with his life, but he also came away, as a double amputee. He’s a Purple Heart recipient. His level of greatness is revered.

He has an amazing family. How do I know? His daughter is mission banker, ***d. Awhhh, J**! She alone, has paid enough money into this mission, to send Hawaiian shirts to cover at least 300 soldiers!

***r looks at her daddy, and knows without a doubt, that she’d do anything for our heroes.

G*** has had some hardships. He paid for our protection with the loss of his own legs. He’d do it again, you know? Absolutely, he would.

This soldier has risen from the ashes so many times, like any true hero would do.

Today, we’re going to help him, quite literally, rise up from the ashes, again.

The recent California fires have take his home. There’s nothing left. Oh, that Purple Heart? It made it out, but not much else. ****’s family has been hit by total devastation. ****e and his wife lost their home. Of course family gathered around, but this time, the family suffered too. ****r’s uncle lost him home. Her brother lost his home, her niece did as well. I can’t even fathom the loss. God be with them.

The family who’s always been there for others, needs a hand right now, to rise from the ashes. The human spirit is strong, but even the strong, need a little support sometimes.

***r has a modest Go Fund Me page. It hasn’t performed as well as she has hoped. So, I’m stepping in. Correction: we’re ALL stepping in. I have a platform. You all have pages of your own. If you share nothing else today, share this. Share it again tomorrow, too. If you each take 2 seconds to click share, her Go Fund Me will spread out and be heard. If you’re able to, add a little money in there, as well. I know it’s the holidays, money is tight. But, we have our homes. We aren’t wearing borrowed clothing, or using someone else’s, well... everything, because ours has been burned up. That’s right, it’s the holidays, and no hero or his family should spend the season this way. Here’s our chance to show what the holiday season is really about.

**r didn’t ask me to do this. I am humbly asking you to spread the word. Our Purple Heart hero is in need. Let’s rise up!

For anyone planning on making a shipping donation to me this week, hold off. I request that you drop that donation for our hero in need, instead this time.

Remember the name: ***s, American HERO! Call his name out in your prayers tonight.
Remember his family as well.

J*** has quietly funded our shipments for a long time now. Thank you so much, **. She’s one of us. We’re standing by her tonight.

It’s simple, really. Share. Donate. Pray.

Mr, **, recipient of the Purple Heart: We honor you. We thank you for the life changing sacrifice you made for our country. It’s noted. Please allow us to honor you by helping you and your family RISE UP!

You’re in our thoughts and prayers.

The Bible says, “In as much as you have done unto the least of these, my brethren, you’ve done unto me.” Those words are written in red. The Lord said that.

Soldier ***, was awarded one of our great nation’s highest honors. He finds himself in a situation that he’s going to need help to overcome, through no fault of his own.

For that, together let’s stand for him!

#neverforget
#togetherwewillhelpyourise
#honorthosewhosacrificed

And of course, gang:

#TOGETHERWEAREMIGHTY!

 

[margarita25]

California Wildfire Information for Veterans

@pandamonium

(Your sister likely knows this, but posting just in case it is helpful for you guys.)

“California Wildfire Information for Veterans
Due to a high number of wildfires this season, CalVet has gathered the following resources to help veterans and their families stay informed and get back on their feet following a natural disaster.

We encourage all veterans to visit their local County Veterans Service Offices (CVSOs) for assistance with filing claims, replacing service-related and benefits documents, and receiving job placement assistance. Find more information about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs operations and assistance, as well as the status of CVSO offices in areas impacted by wildfires below. A complete list of CVSOs with contact information is available here.“

CalVet Veteran Services CVSO Locations

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Resources for veterans affected by the Camp Fire

“The VA Northern California Health Care System clinics in Chico and Yuba City reopened on Tuesday to help all veterans affected by the Camp Fire raging through Butte County.

VA NorCal also put Mobile Vet Centers into operation over the weekend which provide nursing, social work evacuation teams, pharmacy representatives and Dual-Use Vehicles for the purpose of providing health care and emergency support to veterans.

The Chico VA clinic is now also offering telehealth services, which allow veterans to attend doctor's appointments through a smartphone, tablet or computer.“

 

[pandamonium]

California Wildfire Information for Veterans

@pandamonium

(Your sister likely knows this, but posting just in case it is helpful for you guys.)

“California Wildfire Information for Veterans
Due to a high number of wildfires this season, CalVet has gathered the following resources to help veterans and their families stay informed and get back on their feet following a natural disaster.

We encourage all veterans to visit their local County Veterans Service Offices (CVSOs) for assistance with filing claims, replacing service-related and benefits documents, and receiving job placement assistance. Find more information about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs operations and assistance, as well as the status of CVSO offices in areas impacted by wildfires below. A complete list of CVSOs with contact information is available here.“

Yes, we have access to the resources and my dad actually retired from the DAV (Disabled American Veterans) so he likely still has inside sources there as well. I think the problem is he is in shock and just not sure how/where/what to begin. My sister lives the closest and doesn't work so she is the one helping the most right now. He is also unsettled because they don't know if they will have to continue supporting our brother so that makes a difference in what type/size house. Just all overwhelming and he is showing signs of depression, which is very uncharacteristic of him.

 

[margarita25]

I came across this article while looking at veterans stuff, so much kindness out there as well:

A California couple 'adopted' a 93-year-old veteran after his town burned to the ground
https://www-m.cnn.com/2018/11/14/us...ire-trnd/index.html?r=https://www.google.com/

 

[mickey2942]

https://www-m.cnn.com/2018/11/16/us/california-fires/index.html?r=https://www.cnn.com/

71 people verified dead, over 1000 people are still missing! This is catastrophic.

 

[mister happy]

https://www-m.cnn.com/2018/11/16/us/california-fires/index.html?r=https://www.cnn.com/

71 people verified dead, over 1000 people are still missing! This is catastrophic.

Over 1000 missing? I fear the death toll may be astronomical.

 

[MsFacetious]

It is not good that the missing figures keep multiplying. Generally in these they go down over time. It is quite scary that they are not.

I know that often some of the most vulnerable end up getting less assistance. I have a friend who is interested in focusing on the lesser noticed people. Though of course there is enough destruction to go around.

Question: are there relief efforts focused on Native populations, populations of people of color, or low income populations specifically? If you know of any such groups working currently please share. This is where my friend feels she can help.



https://www.kqed.org/news/11706264/...hyvMBfJGZRsQYcGT0YFMR5hAOKkLmFxSH9dWY9zI9VKMw

 

[pandamonium]

some feel good stories:

Calif. HS volleyball program rallies to support team, town reeling from wildfires

Calif. HS volleyball program rallies to support team, town reeling from wildfires

 

[EmmaRose]

Words in a post can not express my sincerity when I say that my heart goes out to your dad, and everyone affected by all of this. Your father sounds like such an amazing and strong man. He served our county and I hope our country will serve him back to the best of her ability. You remind us here how especially difficult this is for the elderly and disabled. Thank goodness your sister is helping him. I know you must be so worried, remember that all of this is very very fresh and I hope and think that in time your dad will feel better. May your father have a new home soon where he can feel happy and comfortable again.

I want to try to look more for positive, helpful, healing resources to link here.

Hang in there. I know it’s easy for me to say . Hugs!!

I was just trying to think of words to convey whats in my heart and then I read your post and you said it beautifully.

 

[cybervampira]

List of Missing in California Fire Is Over 1,000 People. Here Is How They’re Being Counted.

As the death toll continues to rise in the deadliest wildfire in California history, the sheriff of the Northern California county where the fire still rages said on Friday that more than 1,000 people were still missing, a startling increase from previous lists.

As of Friday, 71 people had been confirmed dead in the fire, which swept through the city of Paradise and surrounding areas on Nov. 8. Around 500 specialists and more than 20 cadaver dogs are combing the incinerated hills and gullies of the wooded community for human remains.

The new list of the missing, which stunned even officials who have surveyed the devastation and were expecting the worst, raised questions about who is on the list and how it was compiled.

[...]

 

[cybervampira]

Video at link.

B.C. couple spend vacation helping California wildfire victims after Airbnb burns

A Canadian couple is spending their vacation helping victims of the California wildfires after their Airbnb was burned to the ground.

A smoky tent city in a Walmart parking lot was not where Paul and Destinee Klyne planned to spend their holiday.

But when the Penticton, B.C. pair witnessed the devastation from the ongoing fire – which has left 74 dead and more than a thousand people unaccounted for – they knew they had to do something to help.

 

[margarita25]

“At its fastest, the Camp Fire burned an area equivalent to the size of a football field every second, devouring virtually everything in its path.”

Paradise lost: How California's deadliest wildfire unfolded
https://www-m.cnn.com/2018/11/17/us/california-fires-wrap/index.html?r=https://www.google.com/

 

[margarita25]

“Camp Fire

Chico, CA - November 17, 2018: Overnight, firefighters continued to battle moderate fire behavior due to critically dry fuels and gusty canyon winds. Direct and indirect control lines continue to be implemented and secured with back-firing operations as conditions allow. Throughout the day firefighters will work to strengthen containment lines while also preparing for projected increased winds and a Red Flag Warning this weekend. Work continues in the interior areas of the fire area extinguishing hot spots and removing the many hazards that still exist.

Mitigating hazard trees, hot spots, and utility issues remain a priority and firefighters are working around the clock with our cooperators to make the fire area safe.

Steady northeast winds occurred across the ridges and along the Feather River Canyon last night, with lighter winds and dry conditions in the thermal belts. Light winds and dry conditions are expected today during the daytime. A Red Flag Warning has been issued for tonight evening through tomorrow afternoon for gusty winds and low humidity, with stronger northeast winds expected. Rain is likely over the fire area late next week starting Wednesday.”

Snip

“Size: 148,000 acres Containment: 55% Cause: under investigation

Firefighter Injuries: 3 Civilian Fatalities: 71

Single Residences Destroyed: 9,700 Single Residences Damaged: 219 Multiple Residences Destroyed: 144

Commercial Structures Destroyed: 336 Commercial Structures Damaged: 64

Other Minor Structures Destroyed: 2,076

Total Personnel: 5,632 Engines: 620 Water Tenders: 77 Helicopters: 24 Hand Crews: 101 Dozers: 102 Air Tankers: Air tankers are flying fire suppression missions as condition allow from thoughout the state.”

Camp Fire Information - InciWeb the Incident Information System