Southern California could be at a significantly higher risk of wildfires this summer as officials prepare following the devastating Los Angeles blazes

Since 1993, seven of the 10 worst fire years in California, ranked by total acres burned, have occurred after drier-than-normal winters. By contrast, eight of the state’s 10 mildest fire years occurred after wetter-than-normal winters, according to an analysis by the Bay Area News Group and Golden Gate Weather Services, a Half Moon Bay company.

California, still recovering from January’s catastrophic wildfires that caused between $250 and $275 billion in total damage and economic loss, is bracing for more destructive weather this summer. The summer is typically the worst for wildfires,

The cost of the Eaton fire, which burned near Los Angeles in January, could be passed on to Californians. The fire burned more than 14,000 acres, killing 18 people and destroying more than 9,000 structures.

As officials scramble to shore up the state's wildfire fund, they are considering extending the monthly surcharge imposed on customers of Edison and other utility companies.

Utility bills could rise for SoCal Edison customers after Eaton Fire