With the death count officially reaching 24, the California wildfires are blazing and destroying more and more each day. The largest patch being the Palisades fire, burning over 23,000 acres of land, and is only 14% contained right now. Over 92,000 residents are currently under evacuation orders while 89,000 are in warning zones. But what is causing these destructive fires?

The Santa Ana winds would be the reason to blame behind the devastating raging fires. But what are these winds? Santa Ana winds is just the name, but the actual stream of winds is the offshore winds coming on to land. Combined with the extreme dry weather, fire can catch easy which is exactly the cause behind the fury of fire attacking southern California.

Although this is the reason officials believe caused the fires, others on social media disagree. Rumors are spreading on the internet accusing several people of starting the fires by committing arson during the dry time knowing it could cause fires all about the area.  Suspects have been arrested and are under investigation.

What can people do to help with the devastation caused by these fires? There are multiple GoFundMe’s being posted online asking for personal families relief after being affected by the fires. Or, donate to the Red Cross on their website redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED-CROSS, or texting CAWILDFIRES to 90999 to make a donation in order to help first responders and families affected by the fires.