‘It only takes one’: Fresno County, fire officials prepare for storms

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – As lightning storms are in the weekend forecast, fire and Fresno County officials are preparing for the possibility of wildfires.

The June Complex Fire and the Basin Fire were caused by lightning.

Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig said this time, if a fire starts, it could be severe.

“One of the benefits that we had is it started so early in June that there still was a lot of moisture in a lot of the fuels,” he said.

With the prolonged heat, drying up any moisture left, if a fire does start, it will move faster at higher elevations.

“With just one lightning strike, it only takes one,” said Kris Mattarochia, Meteorologist for the National Weather Service-Hanford.

The county is working closely with Cal Fire and the U.S. Forest Service to keep a close eye if anything sparks.

Cal Fire added that they are increasing their staff and equipment for the possibility of additional fires.

“We’re all working together to do all that we can to try to protect people’s lives as well as property,” Magsig said.

One of the most explosive fuels in Fresno County is the nearly 30 million dead trees in the forested area.

“Never live your life in fear, but always prepare and be ready,” Magsig explained.

Those who live in the foothills and mountain areas can help fire crews by creating defensible space around their property.

“You never want to have fuels up close to your home,” Magsig shared.

Cal Fire suggests keeping your lawn mowed about 100 feet from your home.

“There are resources available for private property owners through the Sierra Resource Conservation District, they receive state grants and other private grants as well from time to time, but they will go out and help to harden private property,” Magsig said.

Be sure to have a go bag ready with essential items such as important documents and medication.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com | KSEE24 and CBS47.