[RWebb]

that is a good point about ignition events

but this thread really relates to what happens AFTER there is an ignition event

- if the forest has been clearcut, it regrows with lots of small trees ===> big fire

- if winter temperatures are warm, then pine beetles are not killed and spread while killing or stressing trees ===> big fire

- if warmer temperatures exist, then trees are stressed ===> big fire

-- if drought, then trees are stressed or die ===> big fire

* if people build (as many did here - see the 1st post) in forested areas ===> big fire causes lots of destroyed houses

* if the houses are wood, not stucco or brick; have uncleared areas near them; have wood pile near them; have a nice wooden deck ===> any fire causes lots of destroyed houses

all these factors interact - warmer temperatures help the beetles while at the same time stressing the trees so they cannot resist the beetles as well