California lawmakers will soon consider the creation of an early-warning system aimed at preventing wildfires. Proposed by Senator Bill Dodd as SB 209, the California Wildfire Warning Center would include a statewide network of automated stations that continually monitor fire-weather and threat conditions.
"Extreme weather driven by climate change is responsible for some of the worst disasters ever experienced by this state,” said Senator Dodd. “My bill will help identify dangerous wind and weather conditions before wildfires break out, allowing time to de-activate power lines and pre-position resources. It’s the kind of statewide, early-warning system California needs to prevent future disasters and save lives.”
The center would be overseen by the California Public Utilities Commission, the Office of Emergency Services and Cal Fire.