A California Republican’s bill would exempt low- and middle-income wildfire victims from solar panel requirements on rebuilt homes that didn’t have them when they burned down.
Wildfires
Posted inArts & Entertainment
‘Damage and renewal’: Santa Cruz native Manjula Martin’s memoir tries to make sense of the devastating fires of 2020
The devastating fires of 2020 are now giving way to memoirs, and one of the most vivid comes from Santa Cruz native Manjula Martin. Her new book, “The Last Fire Season,” reflects on the 2020 fires with natural history and personal experience, with insights on language, Indigenous land practices and the enduring power of gardening.
Posted inLatest News
‘Prompt action’ on fire insurance has yet to help California homeowners
While state regulators craft new regulations and consult with the insurance industry, many Californians are paying extra-high premiums — or going without insurance entirely.
Posted inLatest News
Is California’s wildfire season finally over? Don’t bet on it, experts say
Recent storms have dampened conditions but have also spurred new vegetation that could act as fuel for fires. And strong fall winds have yet to arrive.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Did the scent of fire scare you last week? Join Firewise, meet your neighbors, be ready for disaster
Shareen Bell got spooked by the smell of wildfire that hung in the air around Santa Cruz County last week. It took her back to the CZU fire and reminded her why the organizing work she does at Firewise matters. She is one of the organizing members of the Highland Firewise group on the Westside, and she encourages everyone to get to know their neighbors and create a disaster plan. She explains how and why here.
Posted inLatest News
Smoky conditions in Santa Cruz County expected through late Thursday, potentially Friday
Smoky winds from the wildfires in far northern California and southern Oregon are bringing smoke to the Santa Cruz area, causing unhealthy conditions for sensitive groups. The National Weather Service said the smoke could remain in the area as long as into Friday.
Posted inFood & Drink
Hula’s, Pono join fundraising efforts in wake of devastating Maui wildfire
Hula’s Island Grill in downtown Santa Cruz is donating Monday proceeds to Hawaiian relief operations through October, while Pono Hawaiian Grill has partnered with Santa Cruz Surf Shop on a line of “Maui Strong” clothing.
Posted inLatest News
As California fires worsen, can AI come to the rescue?
Cal Fire is the first fire agency to use artificial intelligence to look for signs of wildfires and directly alert dispatch centers.
Posted inLatest News
In the ruins of Lahaina, a surfing legend leads a volunteer army to get supplies to survivors
Legendary big-wave surfer Archie Kalepa has turned his home in Lahaina into a well-orchestrated supply depot for survivors of the devastating Maui fire.
Posted inLatest News
Reeling from the deadliest wildfire in a century, Maui sees ghosts from California’s past
As Hawaii begins to tally the damage and assess how to improve its safety procedures to address extreme fire weather, California can offer many lessons.