The CZU Lightning Complex fires not only destroyed hundreds of homes, but also damaged water systems operated by the San Lorenzo Valley Water District and tainted drinking water for residents. (Photo courtesy of Cal OES)

As the CZU Lightning Complex fire bore down on Gail Mahood’s tree-shrouded Felton neighborhood in August, she gathered what possessions she could and fled.

“As I drove away and saw how fast the fire was moving, I didn’t have much hope for my home,” Mahood recalled.

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Kiley Russell writes primarily for Local News Matters on issues related to equity and the environment. A Bay Area native, he has lived most of his life in Oakland. He studied journalism at San Francisco State University, worked for the Associated Press and the former Contra Costa Times, among other outlets. He has covered everything from state legislatures, local governments, federal and state courts, crime, growth and development, political campaigns of various stripes, wildfires and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.