California’s governor blames climate change for wildfires
The Governor of the US state of California, which is experiencing wildfires that have killed at least 15 people and destroyed huge areas of the Napa Valley wine region, has said that global warming will increase the chance of future fires. Jerry Brown is a leading figure in the campaign against climate change. The economic impact of the fires remains unclear. Although most of the region’s grapes have already been harvested, the 20% that remain are some of the most valuable. At least two wineries are believed to have been destroyed and the smoke could affect surviving crops.
SACRAMENTO (CBS SF) -- California Gov. Jerry Brown warns that catastrophic wildfires will keep ripping through the state as the climate warms.

Brown told reporters Wednesday that more people are living in communities close to forests and brush that easily ignite because of dry weather. Blazes burning in Northern California have become some of the deadliest in state history.

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He said a warming climate has contributed to catastrophic wildfires. "That's the way it is with a warming climate, dry weather and reducing moisture." said Brown. "These kind of catastrophes have happened and they'll continue to happen, and we have to be prepared to do everything we can to mitigate."

The governor has positioned himself as a leader in the fight against climate change.

Brown says the federal government has pledged assistance but points out resources also are going to hurricane recovery efforts in Texas and Florida.

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