California is burning. Lethal wildfires have ravaged the state, leaving at least 16 dead. Homes and businesses across Los Angeles are in ruins. The search for answers is on. Authorities are scrambling to identify what sparked the devastation.
Lightning ruled out
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says lightning is the top fire starter in the U.S. But not this time. Investigators quickly dismissed lightning. No lightning struck Pacific Palisades or nearby areas when the fires broke out. The Eaton Fire, which began in eastern Los Angeles County, destroyed hundreds of homes. Yet, lightning wasn’t a factor here either.
Other suspected causes
What’s left? Intentional fires and utility equipment failures are common culprits. John Lentini, a seasoned fire investigator, says the process is methodical.
“Every massive fire starts small,” Lentini explained. “Investigators will focus on where it began, pinpointing the ignition source and examining nearby clues.”
So far, no evidence of arson has surfaced. Utility lines haven’t been confirmed as the cause either. But utility companies must report any electrical incidents related to wildfires to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Investigations follow to determine if rules were broken.
Past fires linked to utility lines
California has seen utility lines ignite massive fires before. The 2017 Thomas Fire, one of the largest in state history, was sparked by Southern California Edison power lines. High winds caused the lines to collide, starting a blaze that killed two people and scorched over 440 square miles.
Precautionary peports filed
Southern California Edison recently filed a report linked to the Eaton Fire. The fire burned in the Pasadena hills, an area within the company’s service zone. The utility stated there was no evidence its equipment caused the fire. However, it filed the report after receiving legal requests to preserve evidence.
“Our initial review shows no interruptions or issues with transmission lines until more than an hour after the fire was reported,” the company said.
Other possible triggers
Fires can ignite in many ways. Debris burning, fireworks, and accidents often play a role. A shocking example occurred in 2021 during a gender reveal party. Pyrotechnics sparked a fire that destroyed 36 square miles, five homes, and killed firefighter Charlie Morton.
Containment efforts continue
As of Friday, both the Eaton and Pacific Palisades fires raged on. Containment remained limited. Winds slowed, but rain wasn’t in the forecast. Dry vegetation fueled the flames, allowing them to spread rapidly.
“The fire will burn until it runs out of fuel or the weather changes,” Lentini said. “It’s not going out until it’s ready.”
California’s battle with wildfires is far from over. The search for answers and solutions continues, but for now, the state remains on edge.
