Northern California Sunset, USA I took this photo in August 2013, revealing the smoldering sunset that occurred during the American Fire wildfire that raged through the Sierra Nevada Mountain range. Heavy smoke swept across Lake Tahoe Basin and Sacramento Valley. This photo isn't depicting the fire itself, but rather the effect of the intense smoke on the clouds and sky, as the sun set. Increased warm temperatures, long periods without rain and earlier snow melts in California, have resulted in a devastating 5-year drought. These elements result in dried up forests, which can lead to wildfires and the the release of greenhouse gasses. These gasses contribute to the continued warming of our climate.