The Los Angeles wildfires have engulfed the region, claiming at least 24 lives and destroying over 100,000 structures. These devastating fires not only threaten lives and property but also raise significant concerns about air quality due to the hazardous smoke they produce. As powerful Santa Ana winds, reaching speeds up to 70 mph, drive the flames, they also spread toxic particulate matter across the city. Local authorities have issued a "no-burn alert" to curb additional smoke emissions.
The impact of these wildfires is exacerbated by the urban setting of Los Angeles, making it difficult to predict air quality effects, as noted by environmental health expert Joel Kaufman. The fires have brought both immediate and long-term health concerns, particularly regarding the increased levels of particulate matter pollution. Wildfire smoke accounts for roughly one-third of all particulate matter pollution in the United States.
"Wildfire smoke is super toxic to the lungs, more so than ‘regular’ smoke, because of the concentrations of fine particulates." – Don McKenzie
Smoke from these fires has proven to be particularly challenging for those with compromised lung function, increasing their risk of harm. Buildings across Los Angeles continue to burn, leading to damaged facilities and staff shortages that hinder immediate care. Claire Schollaert from UCLA highlights the disproportionate exposure and health impacts faced by vulnerable groups.
"While air quality index levels in LA have reached levels known to be hazardous for everyone, we’re particularly concerned about smoke exposures among a few groups who might be disproportionately exposed or more likely to experience health impacts as a result of wildfire smoke," – Claire Schollaert
In contrast, New York City recently experienced a spike in emergency room visits due to asthma attacks from Canadian wildfire smoke. However, without the immediate threat of flames, New Yorkers found it easier to access medical facilities. This contrast highlights the dual challenges faced by Los Angeles in managing both fire-related emergencies and the ensuing air quality crisis.
Grassroots efforts have been pivotal in the fight against air pollution. The Moms Clean Air Force, a coalition of over 1.5 million parents, has been advocating for cleaner air and climate policies. Elizabeth Bechard from the organization emphasized the need for systemic responses to wildfire smoke.
"One of the biggest things that we did over the last year was, in a joint effort with other environmental groups, petition Fema to classify wildfire smoke as a major disaster so that more funds can be available to help people who are affected by wildfire smoke." – Elizabeth Bechard
The ongoing blazes in Los Angeles represent a significant setback in efforts to clear the city's air. Kaufman pointed out that these fires threaten years of progress made in reducing air pollution levels.
"In addition to the heartbreak of all of the property loss and devastation to human lives, which obviously is the biggest concern right now, we are seeing these wildfires as this setback to all these years of progress in clearing the air in LA," – Joel Kaufman
New York's experience with wildfire smoke underscores the broader issue of air pollution in the U.S., where approximately 100,000 deaths annually are attributed to poor air quality. The toxic nature of wildfire smoke, compounded by urban elements like burning buildings and anthropogenic materials, adds layers of complexity.
"What’s a little bit different in this fire is that we don’t really know the toxicity of a fire that includes so much in the way of buildings that have burned and anthropogenic materials," – Joel Kaufman
Amidst these challenges, some relief comes from strong winds that have occasionally pushed smoke toward the ocean, sparing residential areas from its worst effects. However, as fires continue to rage, Los Angeles remains on high alert.