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Los Angeles Wildfires Fueled By Climate Change, Study Finds

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A recent analysis conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles, has revealed that the wildfires currently ravaging Los Angeles have been exacerbated by human-induced pollution. The study indicates that 25% of the available fuel for these fires can be attributed to climate change, resulting in fires that are larger and hotter than they would have been otherwise.

While the fires would have occurred regardless, the study suggests that they would have been somewhat smaller and less intense without the influence of climate change. This raises concerns about the manageability of wildfires in the absence of these exacerbating effects.

Since January 7, twelve fires have ignited across the region, fueled by a rare Santa Ana wind event. The fires have already scorched over 60 square miles of land and destroyed more than 12,000 structures, including homes and businesses. The Eaton and Palisades fires now stand as the most destructive wildfires in Southern California's history.

Fires would be smaller and less intense without climate change.
UCLA study links 25% of wildfire fuel to climate change.
12 fires ignited in Los Angeles since January 7.

Several climate-related factors have contributed to the heightened fire risk in the region. Unusually wet winters have led to an overgrowth of grasses and shrubs, which subsequently dried out in the heat. Additionally, unseasonably warm summer and fall temperatures, coupled with a delayed rainy season, have further intensified the wildfire threat.

The occurrence of 'weather whiplash,' characterized by rapid shifts between wet and dry conditions, has exacerbated the risk of wildfires. Los Angeles experienced a particularly dry period between May 2024 and January 2025, with only 0.29 inches of rain recorded, making it one of the driest spans on record.

Looking ahead, forecasts predict below-normal rainfall in the coming months, keeping the region on high alert as it grapples with the harsh realities of a warming planet.

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