California is grappling with a severe outbreak of illnesses and fatalities caused by the proliferation of death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides). The surge in cases is largely attributed to the unusually wet December, which has provided optimal conditions for these highly poisonous fungi to flourish, especially along the Central Coast and in Northern California. According to the California Department of Public Health, between November 18 and January 18, there have been 39 reported cases of illness linked to the consumption of death cap mushrooms, resulting in four deaths and three liver transplants.