Anne K. in L.A.: Up in flames

August 28-31, 2009

When the Station Fire broke out in the Angeles National Forest, Rob and I were alarmed. We weren't in any imminent danger, but it was large enough that we could see it from our home. As an East Coaster, I couldn't look away. I had never seen anything like it. The compulsion to be an amateur photojournalist overtook me. So, Rob and I drove to a safe vantage point and I took photos a different intervals.

I started with the some shots during the day.

Plane drops fire retardant on Western flank of Station Fire - Friday, 8/28/09 2:15PM

View of the Western flank of the fire. 210 Freeway in the foreground. Friday, 8/28/09 2:15PM

The smoke could be seen for miles. It was frightening, but we were completely awestruck.

Friday, 8/28/09 2:15PM

When we returned later that evening, the fire had advanced significantly.

Friday, 8/28/09 10:25PM - 210 Freeway, La Canada High School & JPL

Friday, 8/28/09 10:25PM - La Canada High School & JPL

In the midst of watching it the hillsides burn, I couldn't help but feel sick to my stomach and saddened. The very same hills and forests that were on fire were the exact ones that had become our playground over the last couple of years. It's hard to believe that we wouldn't be taking any photos like this for a long while.