Well, allow to happen, the dry tinder doesn't just spontaneously burst into flame. But there are always idiots around to throw a cigarette out into that tinder. I saw it happen a couple of nights ago. I was behind a pick up in Killeen Texas, which is very dry (and now very smokey from fires on the impact range area of Ft. Hood) when someone in the truck threw out a still lighted butt about in front of the main gate to Ft. Hood. One of my rare cussing events then ensued.
From what I have heard, the fire was started because of a couple of trees were brushing against a power line. That, combined with nearly 80 days of triple digit degree highs and dry grass made for all of the troubles.
I live in Austin, which is about 23 miles from the nearest fires. Trying to get as many people involved with disaster relief as I can. Local animal shelters need help, and evacuation centers need donations and volunteers. I’m going to go lend a hand on my 3 days off (I work 4 10s per week so I could have more time with my family) to anyone that has a volunteer job to give me.