Contra Costa County (KRON) — With the drought bearing down on California and the Bay Area, there are renewed concerns about a harsh fire season this year.
It’s something fire officials are aware of, and at least in Contra Costa County, they’re preparing for an active season.
George Laing of the Contra Costa Fire Protection District explained, “normally we see moisture levels much higher.”
The low moisture level means there is a higher chance of a fire spreading quickly.
A small brush fire in Morgan Hill quickly grew to 10-acres on Monday. The fire spread so quickly, officials were forced to evacuate some houses on the west side of Santa Teresa Boulevard.
Fire fighters were able to keep that fire from damaging any houses. They’re asking people to make changes to try to keep their houses are fire-safe as possible. “We really need people to do what they can, create that defensive space… We see it here next to wildland interface. It is a real threat this year for sure,” said Laing.