Like BigMister, I too was evacuated from my home by the Thomas fire. Likewise, made a new friend.
I have a condo in Ventura and was evacuated the first night of the fire (but only for two nights). As I watched the hillside literally explode and waited for friends to pick me up, I noticed an older neighbor who I hardly know standing alone. She had no where to go. My new "best friend" got my friends guest room. I slept that first night fitfully on the couch.
We are fully recovered. On now check in on my neighbor daily. And we are all happy to hear that the last of evacuations in Santa Barbara have been lifted.
BigMister, strange but wonderful how we make new friends. All the best to you!