Just got off the phone with Dennis Clarke in San Diego. Dennis was my roommate in Monterey. Both of us like to drink beer so we hit it off. We have kept in touch over 22 years. I had the privilege of visiting him and his wife Dianna at their new home in the mountains east of San Diego in September, 2006.
Unfortunately, their home is now a risk due to the fires in SoCal. They are staying with his mother nearer downtown San Diego having had to evacuate their home on Sunday. As best they know from reports of friendly law enforcement in the area, their home is still intact. When they left, the fires were visible a mile or so away. Thankfully, the Santa Ana winds, which were blowing at about 90 MPH at times, have settled down. Even when the fires have abated, it may be a few days before the residents are allowed to return to their homes.
Dennis is totally on edge. He talked non-stop for about 20 minutes telling me what was going on and then apologized for talking non-stop for 5 minutes.
I feel for Dennis and Dianna and everyone in similar circumstances. Considering, they had nearly the same thing happen in 2003, I would have to question my commitment to staying in the area. As I said though, I have been there. It is survivalist country. Those who live there, live there for the wildness. The country is exciting, remote, beautiful, and dry. I guess that the wildfires are something you have to deal with if you want to live there.
Bottom line is the best of luck to Dennis and Dianna. I submit a wet willy to the fire gods.