Why Forest Fires in California?

Why do so many forest fires occur in California? There are many forests in the country.

-Don Reichcher, Duncanville, Texas

It is a combination of California climate and topography. First, the region receives more than 90 percent of the rainfall between November and April. Then the dry season begins. Warmer weather is coming soon, and the ground is starting to bake. In late summer, strong and very dry winds make the land more vulnerable.

Still, while California is extremely vulnerable to fires, few occur as a result of lightning strikes. Up to 90 percent is through human activity. Control burns (shrubs at the bottom can help eliminate too much tinder).