First thought on everyone's minds - the impact of global warming, because according to something I recently saw (NewsHour I think), the frequency of these fires has not gone up in recent decades (may even have gone down slightly), but some ridiculously large % of the largest fires in CA history have occurred over the last 10 to 15 years. First mention of climate change, the discussion is entirely political, with people identifying politically with the pro-global warming as a cause (with man having a central role) set or the anti-global warming having a role (or failing that, man has nothing to do with it) set.

Second thought is population growth in high risk areas. More chances for man-made fires (including the issues with utility infrastructure, which as I think Stimp says below, brings potential liability to PG&E that could bankrupt them and precipitate a state bailout), and much greater human toll when they happen for any reason.

So if you think about it, take out the word "fire" and sub in the word "hurricanes", and you have the same exact issues in your home state all the way up to mine in NY in coastal areas. Either more disasters or more intense disasters, global warming as the cause or not, too many people in high risk areas, who picks up the insurance costs, and on and on.

No worries - this is at its core a political issue.
[Post edited by hoolstoptheheels at 11/15/2018 12:51PM]