Firestorm in San Fernando Valley, smoke on the water

The wildfire situation unfolding at multiple points in the San Fernando Valley is frightening, with at least two people dead. Automobiles on the 118 Freeway are dangerously close to flames and numerous homes are in jeopardy.

Fire crews have their hands full and good luck to them!

I'm watching on TV from my apartment in Redondo Beach. I smelled trouble this morning, when smoke entered my window. The air along the coast is grayish-brown and sunlight is obscured. The sunset tonight will look blood red -- beautiful yet eerie.

But thoughts and prayers are in order for people and wild critters in harm's way.

This is not too surprising, though. It's fire season, powerful winds are gusting, and more and more homes are being built in hills historically prone to burning. Because of this, fire crews are being taxed more than ever.

One of the fires may advance toward the Bell Canyon and West Hills areas. I lived in the original West Hills once upon a time and recall fighting sparks from our rooftop before the evacuation order came.

I recall being evacuated from junior high in Malibu Canyon and high school in Agoura Hills. Those fires, likewise, started in the Chatsworth area. At least one did not stop till it reached the beach in Malibu.

Back then, as a child and teenager, such events seemed exciting. Now they're ominous. Let's hope for stillness to prevail soon, so crews can gain the upper hand. Meanwhile, I'll try not to complain about the smoke-caused irritation I feel in my eyes.

-- Pete Thomas

Photo credit: Mel Melcon/Los Angeles Times

Comments

[helly]

hi Pete Thomas, also in RB. the strand was fairly deserted yesterday afternoon. i had to go to OC in the morning it was really windy mayb 40mph, leaves and palm fronds dry as paper and blowing in circles, whitish smoke overhead and a mixture of ash, dust, sand over all. and what a full moon last night and this morning, beautiful and clear on the coast.