As the wildfire continues to spread, as of January 10th, 2025, in Southern California, it brings us to evaluate the situation that has brought us here. There have been ten fatalities confirmed, with more than 150,000 people evacuated and more than 10,000 structures. The Palisades and Eaton are currently less than 10% contained, and only the Sunset fire is 100% contained, according to the LA Times. “This is unlike anything that I’ve ever seen in my 25 years on the fire department,” Capt. Adam Vangerpen with the L.A. Fire Department said on “CBS Mornings”. What makes these fires so bad is the combination of dangerously strong winds with dry conditions. The winds exceeded 100 mph in some places on Tuesday which continues to fan the fires.
Wildfires are unplanned and unwanted fires burning in natural areas. California has been known for its prevalence of wildfires, and the conditions in California certainly contribute to it. Southern California, the current site of the fires, has been experiencing a drought and has not seen rain in months. According to the US Drought Monitor, these drought conditions affect nearly 60 percent of California. Climate change amplifies hot and dry conditions, causing heat and drought conditions to worsen. The hot temperature evaporates moisture from soil and vegetation, turning it into kindling and intensifying fires. The US Environmental Protection Agency reported, climate change has increased the frequency and length of the seasons and the number of burned areas of wildfires. These fires devastate communities, health, and ecosystems. People can help through forest management and continuing to fight climate pollution. You can help today by donating to the American Red Cross, California Fire Foundation Wildfire & Disaster Relief Fund, Wildlife Recover Fund, and other foundations helping this cause.
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