The Thomas Fire, which began in December 2017, marked a turning point in the understanding of wildfires in California. It wasn't just a singular event but a harbinger of a new, more dangerous era in the state's relationship with natural fires. Fueled by extreme drought, unusually high temperatures, and the infamous Santa Ana winds, the fire rapidly became one of the largest in California's history. It scorched vast areas of Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

But the Thomas Fire was more than just a local disaster; it was a symptom of a global crisis. Scientists have long warned that climate change will lead to more frequent and intense wildfires. In California, this prediction has become a reality. The years following the Thomas Fire have seen several devastating fires: the Caldor Fire in the Tahoe region, the widespread Creek Fire, the fierce Bobcat Fire, and the enduring Tamarack Fire. Each of these blazes has its own story, but they share common threads – hotter temperatures, drier landscapes, and stronger winds, all consequences of a changing climate.

These fires are reshaping California's ecosystems, altering its landscapes, and forcing a reevaluation of how we live with and manage our natural surroundings. They are also a stark reminder of the urgent need for global action on climate change. As the planet warms, what was once extraordinary is becoming the new normal, posing unprecedented challenges in California and worldwide.

In documenting these fires, the goal is to capture their immediate impact and tell a larger story about the changing climate and its effects on our environment. It's a narrative that is as much about human responsibility as about natural phenomena, highlighting the urgent need for environmental stewardship in an increasingly unpredictable world.