"Every Day Is Fire Season in Drought-Era California, Experts Say"

"In drought-era California, does 'fire season' mean anything?

Traditionally, the scorching, parched autumn was the period of greatest concern about wildfires, but experts say that after four desiccated years almost every day in the Golden State can be considered fire season.

Fire agencies in Santa Barbara County and other parts of the Central Coast are moving next week to increased levels of staffing and greater numbers of fire engines, bulldozers and air tankers available for dispatch. Before the drought, this ramp-up often occurred at the end of May or June, said Santa Barbara County Fire Capt. Dave Zaniboni. His department has already battled 70 small fires this year and sees no reason to hold off."

Harriet Ryan reports for the Los Angeles Times April 11, 2015.