Trial by Fire

摘要

There's no question that California utilities are increasingly challenged by climate conditions that put their operations at risk. The years 2014-2018 have been the five hottest on record for the Golden State. With the 2018 fire season over, researchers say six of the state's 10 most destructive wildfires ever have occurred in the last three years, and they point to several climate-related factors they say contribute to the spread of fires: 1. Highertemperatures, which dries out vegetation and produce more fuel for fires 2. Shorter rainy seasons, which results in longer fire seasons 3. A shift in Santa Ana wind patterns 4. A slowing of the jet stream, which leads to more heat waves and high-pressure ridges that block rain from the region.