Beginning November 13, 2008, a series of wildfires began burning across Southern California. Almost two weeks later, the aftermath revealed destruction of at least 400 houses and 500 mobile homes, causing $800 million dollars in loss.

According to reports, the three most significant wildfires included:

1.  Montecito Tea Fire: The Montecito Tea wildfire began on November 13, 2008, in the community of Montecito, resulting in the destruction of 210 homes.

2.  Sayre Fire: Beginning on November 14, 2008 in the Sylmar section of Los Angeles, California, the Sayre wildfire claimed over 630 structures, including 500 mobile homes, nine single-family homes, and eleven commercial buildings.

3.  Freeway Complex Fire: Beginning on November 15, 2008, the Freeway wildfire burned about 30,305 acres, injured 14 firefighters, destroyed about 200 structures, and forced the evacuations of about 7,000 homes.

All photos courtesy of David McNew/Getty Images.

25 Largest Fire Losses in U.S. History

Below table courtesy of NFPA:

   Portland Fire & Rescue

   We Respond: Always Ready, Always There

   November 12, 2010