Californian wild fires, 2003

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Californian wild fires, 2003

Californian wild fires. Smoke clouds from the wild fires that raged in California, USA, in late October 2003. This image was taken from the International Space Station, which orbits at an altitude of around 400 kilometres. Strong Santa Ana winds fanned the flames, helping to spread and maintain the fires. The fires covered a wide area of southern California, and killed several people. Hundreds of homes were destroyed and a state of emergency was declared. Image taken on 26th October 2003

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Media ID 6375347

© NASA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

2003 America Atmospheric Bush California Californian Clouds Damage Environmental Fire Fires Horizontal International Space Station October Orbit Plumes Smoke Smoky Us A Wild Wild Fire Winds Windy Santa Ana

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the devastating Californian wild fires of 2003, showcasing the immense smoke clouds that engulfed the region. Taken from the International Space Station, orbiting at an altitude of approximately 400 kilometers, this image offers a unique perspective on the scale and intensity of these natural disasters. The fires were fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, which not only spread but also sustained their destructive power. Stretching across a vast area in southern California, these wildfires claimed several lives and left behind a trail of destruction. Hundreds of homes were reduced to ashes, prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency. The environmental damage caused by these infernos was unprecedented. The photograph showcases the smoky aftermath as plumes rise into the atmosphere, creating an eerie yet mesmerizing sight. Its horizontal composition allows viewers to appreciate both the magnitude and extent of this catastrophe. Taken on October 26th, 2003, this image serves as a stark reminder of nature's raw power and its potential for devastation when combined with unfavorable conditions. It stands as a testament to human vulnerability in face of such forces while highlighting our ongoing need for proactive measures to prevent future tragedies like these from occurring again.

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