CalFire increases staffing statewide in response to elevated fire weather and lightning threat

Governor Gavin Newsom yesterday announced that California has predeployed resources throughout the state and is closely monitoring weather conditions that bring the potential for localized heavy rain, dry lightning, and gusty winds that could spark new wildfires.

CalFire is increasing staffing levels statewide. This proactive move comes as the state continues to recover from August’s lightning siege, which resulted in more than 110,000 lightning strikes, more than 530 fires, and more than 28,900 acres burned.

According to the National Weather Service, warm and dry conditions combined with incoming tropical moisture are expected to bring thunderstorm activity and gusty winds across much of the state through next week. While some storms may bring beneficial rainfall, the potential for dry lightning remains high.

In anticipation of the incoming weather, CalFire has staffed the following resources in addition to normal staffing
Northern Region
• Staff one additional reserve engine per unit (one per operational unit).
• Staff two additional Firefighter Hand Crews per unit.
• Staff all CalFire Firefighter, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, California Conservation Corp, California Military Department hand crews 24 hrs/day.
• Staff one Strike Team Leader per camp/fire center.

Southern Region
• Additional staffing in local and regional Emergency Command Centers.
• Staff additional Region Intel as needed.
• Staff all CalFire Firefighter, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, California Conservation Corp, California Military Department hand crews 24 hrs/day.
• Staff all CalFire reserve engines (one per operational unit)/

 Contract Counties
• Ventura County to staff five additional Type 3 Wildland Engines and one additional hand crew.
• Santa Barbara County to staff five additional Type 3 Wildland Engines and one additional hand crew.
• Kern County to staff five additional Type 3 Wildland Engines.
• LA County to staff two additional hand crews.
• Marin County to staff one hand crew 24 hrs/day

These measures are designed to ensure an aggressive response to any new fire starts and to protect communities during this period of heightened fire danger.

“Lightning can strike with little or no warning, sparking dangerous wildfires,” said CalFire Chief/Director Joe Tyler. “We urge all Californians to stay alert, follow evacuation orders if issued, and take lightning safety seriously.”

CalFire reminds the public to remain vigilant during thunderstorms. If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning, so if possible, stay indoors. If you are outdoors when a storm approaches, seek shelter immediately in a substantial building or a hard-topped vehicle, avoid open areas and tall objects and never shelter under trees. Report any signs of smoke or fire immediately by calling 911.

Now is the time to prepare — make sure your go bag is packed with essentials like medications, important documents, clothing, and supplies for every member of your household. Having it ready means you can move fast if evacuation orders are issued. Just as important, sign up for emergency alerts in your county so you receive real-time information directly from local officials.

Click here to watch a video on lightning safety tips.

Click here for information on more ways to prepare for wildfire.