Caroline Carter-Thomas Fire threatens safety of all in Southern California

Driven by the Santa Ana winds, the Thomas Fire in Southern California has been burning for two weeks now, and evacuation orders have just been made in Santa Barbara county to both human and animal residents of the area. It is the third largest wildfire in state history and so far it is only 40 percent contained. Winds are predicted to pick up again soon and many in the path of the wildfire are forced to flee their homes. This includes the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo, some of which are endangered. Animals are being shipped to smoke-free areas of the state due to the ever-changing conditions of the Thomas Fire. 

This is very relevant to me because California has a very large eventing community, which is the sport that I am involved in. Many horses are dead because of this fire and others have lost their homes and owners. While there are barns in the area that are caring for some of these horses until their owners can claim them, it is still uncertain what many of their fates will be. This is also similar to the Dust Bowl. Many were left scrambling for cover from the storms and could no longer live their lives as easily as they once could, much like Southern Californians today who may not have a home to come back to when the fires finally subside. 

https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2017/12/16/571380748/southern-california-fire-forces-new-evacuations-threatens-coastal-communities