This looks like the scene of a sci-fi film just before the aliens arrive, but unfortunately, this is no movie magic. This is the true color of the San Franciscan sky the afternoon on September 9, 2020 due to the active wildfires across much of the West Coast.
The wildfire has left a 2.5 million acre path of destruction in California and 133,000 acres in Oregon and is still only 20% contained. If you are compelled to help those in the wildfire’s path please consider donating to the following organizations.
A waiter in San Francisco, California bringing lunch to diners on September 9, 2020. Photo: Associated Press
Where can I donate?
The Red Cross is working on providing meals, supplies, and shelter to those who have been evacuated or have lost their homes to the fire. If in the area, they are also accepting new volunteers to assist with disaster relief.
The United Way of Northern California is accepting donations to fund emergency cash grants to help people rebuild their homes.
The Central California Animal Disaster Team relies on donations and volunteers to assist emergency response agencies with animal evacuation, emergency sheltering, search and rescue and animal reunification.
The California Fire Foundation is accepting donations to supply $250 gift cards to families of fallen firefighters, firefighters, and the communities they serve.
Help fund long-term solutions through the Center for Disaster Philanthropy. Funds received will be allocated to research, preparedness, and planning to help prevent devastation in the future.
UPS Truck in Oregon illuminated by the red skies from the wildfire.
Photo: Reddit
What causes these extreme wildfires and how can they be prevented?
Record high temperatures, dry lightning events, heat waves, and high winds are partially to blame, but human impact has a lot to do with the ignition of wildfires.
We can do our part to prevent wildfires by
1. Reporting unattended fires.
2. Extinguishing campfires and fire pits when finished.
3. Not throwing cigarettes out of your vehicle.
4. Using caution when using flammable liquids such as propane.
5. Using caution when lighting fireworks and only use them if you’re in a clear area away from the woods.
6. Paying attention to wildfire warnings in your area through the National Weather Service.
