Alert California, a program that began as a small research project at UC San Diego in 2001, has grown to include more than 1,100 cameras strategically placed in high-risk fire zones throughout the state.
The system has become an invaluable asset to Cal Fire, which uses it to monitor various threats to our communities from a distance.
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"The agreement originally began with UCSD down in the San Diego unit, which allowed us to have access to these cameras, which were primarily used for situational awareness," said Isaac Sanchez of Cal Fire.
Following the deadly Eaton and Palisades fires and a rainstorm impacting the region, mudslides have become a major concern for residents and officials alike.
Thankfully, more cameras have been added to the network, allowing fire officials to survey potentially hazardous land movement in the burn zones.
Sanchez told KNX News Special Correspondent Steve Gregory that the network of high-definition cameras, heat signature lenses, and artificial intelligence is a significant asset, helping officials not only spot wildfires and mudslides but also determine appropriate response strategies.
In the Eaton Fire zone, two new cameras have been installed in Bailey Canyon and Sierra Madre Canyon, with an additional camera at the Sierra Madre Bridge.
In the Palisades area, two new cameras, named Cloudcroft 1 and Cloudcroft 2, have been installed.
"This is an example of how Cal Fire, in recent years, has incorporated technology," Sanchez said.
He believes these new tools are essential for the department to effectively and efficiently carry out its mission.
The cameras are accessible to the public. You can check them out HERE.
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