Who started the Thomas Fire?
The Thomas Fire, one of the most devastating wildfires in California’s history, began on December 4, 2017. This massive blaze, which ultimately became the largest wildfire in the state’s recorded history, raised numerous questions about its origin. Determining who started the Thomas Fire has been a topic of intense investigation and debate, as it had a profound impact on the lives of thousands of people and the environment. In this article, we will explore the various theories and findings surrounding the fire’s ignition.
The initial investigation into the Thomas Fire’s cause was led by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). They conducted a thorough examination of the area where the fire started, searching for any signs of human activity or natural causes. The investigation focused on the area near Thomas Aquinas College, which is why the fire was named the Thomas Fire.
One of the primary theories regarding the fire’s origin was that it was caused by a power line failure. CAL FIRE initially considered this possibility, as power lines have been known to spark wildfires in the past. However, after an extensive investigation, they ruled out this theory, stating that there was no evidence of a power line failure in the area.
Another theory suggested that the fire was started by a campfire. This theory gained traction after reports of a campfire being lit in the area shortly before the fire began. However, further investigation revealed that the campfire was extinguished and there was no evidence that it had reignited to start the fire.
A third theory proposed that the fire was caused by a discarded cigarette. This theory was based on the fact that cigarette butts are a common cause of wildfires, especially in dry and windy conditions. While this theory was not conclusively proven, it remained a possibility during the investigation.
Ultimately, after months of investigation, CAL FIRE concluded that the Thomas Fire was caused by a combination of natural and human factors. They determined that the fire was likely sparked by a discarded cigarette, which ignited dry vegetation in the area. The fire then spread rapidly due to the dry conditions, strong winds, and the dense vegetation in the region.
The Thomas Fire’s origin remains a topic of discussion and speculation, as it highlights the complex interplay between natural and human factors in the occurrence of wildfires. While the investigation concluded that the fire was caused by a discarded cigarette, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety and the need for increased vigilance in wildfire-prone areas.
