You've probably seen the coverage of the devastating fires in California, but you've likely never heard of anything like this: imagine if almost every TV and many radio stations in the second biggest market in the world were suddenly forced off the air, possibly for weeks? 

It could happen if the flames approaching a place called Mt. Wilson reach a series of TV and radio transmitters collectively worth about a billion dollars.

According to Deadline:

"Every local network affiliate uses the towers atop Mt. Wilson to transmit their signals, as do PBS, Univision and KCET. At least nine local radio stations also use the equipment."  

If the flames were to reach the site, it could mean dozens of over-the-air stations could go silent very suddenly, with no way to restore full power until the crisis passes and everything could be rebuilt. And at present, there's no word on when that could happen. 

I've heard of hurricanes taking select stations off the air in the southern part of the U.S., as they get back on air through back-ups or with the help of co-owned affiliates. But I can't recall hearing about anything quite so extensive in a single market - especially L.A.

Pretty incredible. Not to mention pretty terrifying. 

Bobcat Fire In Los Angeles Is Burning Within 500 Feet Of Mt. Wilson Observatory, Threatens Local TV And Radio Transmission Towers Worth $1B