The Perfect Fire Storm

A series of hazardous conditions have worked perfectly together to cause massive loss of property and life in Southern California. A five-month drought, 50 mph Santa Ana winds, steep terrain, unmanaged flammable fuels and insufficient fire support have all combined to fan possibly the worst wildfire ever in the history of the state.
To date, over one half million acres and 1,600 homes have burned. Thousands of people have been evacuated from their homes and 16 deaths have been blamed on the fire.
More than 11,000 firefighters are being used on the lines of fires that Gov. Gray Davis said may be the costliest disaster California has ever faced. He estimated the cost at $2 billion and the situation is still not resolved. Unfortunately, firefighter fatigue is a new issue that could have negative consequences.
The news media is in a wildfire feeding frenzy and all major TV anchors are broadcasting live. I don't have much to add to that frenzy but I do have some great information on wildfire behavior and property protection.
Firewise Your Home and Property is a thing I did several years ago and may explain why some homes burned while adjacent homes survived. This "haphazard" destruction of homes may not be such a mystery after reading the article. There ARE things you can do to protect your property.

More Forest Fire and Prescription Burning Sites

Also, check my forestry forum on the latest on the fires: Forestry Forum - Current California Fires