LA's Wildfires: A Growing Crisis

LA is burning

The recent wildfires in Los Angeles serve as a stark reminder of how climate change is intensifying extreme weather events. A study by World Weather Attribution found that human-made warming made the hot, dry, and windy conditions for these fires 35% more likely. These fires, fueled by dry vegetation and powerful Santa Ana winds, scorched over 57,000 acres and claimed 29 lives.

The study reveals that the region is now 2.4 times more likely to experience dry winters than in pre-industrial times, contributing to a longer wildfire season—about 23 days longer than in the past. If global temperatures continue to rise, extreme fire conditions will become even more frequent. The UN predicts that extreme wildfires could increase by 50% by 2100 if climate change continues unchecked.

The rise in wildfires is not just a California issue—it's a global concern. The study warns that without a shift away from fossil fuels, wildfires will only get worse. With California already seeing a 172% increase in burned areas since the 1970s, it’s clear that urgent action is needed to combat climate change and mitigate future risks. The question is no longer if we will face more fires, but how we will address the crisis before it’s too late.

Published By - Anya Pal

Feb 6th 2025

*Some references in this article were from earth.org

Published By - Anya Pal

September 29th 2024