November 2, 2007
Many people have been following the wildfires around San Diego County as well as Orange and L.A. Counties with interest. San Diego was hardest hit losing more than 1600 homes. However many many others were saved by the incredible work and determination of firefighters, law enforcement personnel, neighbors, and others.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this fire was the pure randomness that in which it struck homes. Many streets would have nearly every home completely destroyed but leave 2 or 3 virtually untouched. The notorious Santa Ana winds helped send the flaming embers onto rooftops.
Take a look at the picture below where several homes are randomly burned down and others look perfect...
President Bush Inspects the Damage Around Rancho Bernardo
Words cannot describe the appreciation and gratitude for the many folks who risked their lives (and health) to save what they could...they are simply HEROES! I saw many homes where firefighters - unable to save the home - decided to try and carry out valuable possessions left behind...pictures, wedding albums, etc...
Take a look at a house in Rancho Bernardo (below) where some of the valuable possessions had been taken outside.
Over and over there were remarkable acts of noble bravery and courage. Thank you to all who helped fight the fight.
The "Reverse 911" System also saved many lives, calling people at all hours of the day and night to get out. While it has been widely praised, there is some work to perfect the system.
This picture (below) was a hillside in Rancho Bernardo with a simple white cross on top. Despite the area around the hill (and many homes) burning up completely, the cross appeared unmarked by the flames.
We also got several calls to voluntarily evacuate. Fortunately, the high winds shifted to the south and we averted disaster. My family was blessed. Others weren't so lucky.
KGTV's Elizabeth Sanchez reporting LIVE from Fallbrook, CA
Our office in Solana Beach was evacuated - mainly for the thick suffocating smoke. Unexpectedly, Del Mar and the surrounding areas also had some tense moments.
A picture of what the 5 Freeway looked like in North County Monday afternoon by the Del Mar Racetrack is below...looking north
What this county experienced in the past 2 weeks was unbelievable. San Diegan's came together to help their fellow neighbors. It was a far cry from post-Hurricane Katrina and the free-for-all that ensued. Lots of lessons learned from the Cedar Fires in 2003.
Several Tankers preparing to drop retardant...shows you just how crowded the skies were...
A C-130 prepares to drop retardant
I'm proud of what I saw from my community. Although I do not wish for a repeat disaster experience, I'm confident that if that day rears it's ugly head again...our community will have each other's back - once more!
For those who wish to donate to the disaster relief effort: www.sdarc.org
Additional information on the fires, etc...
www.sandiego.gov
