Wildfires

New research shows that prescribed burns and other fuel reduction efforts by the U.S. Forest Service deliver strong economic returns by limiting wildfire damage. The study, published in the journal Science, analyzed hundreds of fires in the Western United States. It found that every dollar spent avoided nearly four dollars in health, property, and emissions costs.

May 03, 2026 Reported by AI

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass accused reelection challenger Spencer Pratt of exploiting Palisades wildfire grief in a podcast interview, calling his tactics 'reprehensible' amid rising campaign tensions. This follows Pratt's January candidacy launch and April viral ad criticizing her leadership during the blaze that destroyed his home.

A recent study in Science Advances has found that the number of days with conditions ideal for extreme wildfires—combining heat, drought, and wind—has nearly tripled globally in the past 45 years. This increase, driven largely by human-caused climate change, is most notable in the Americas and involves more frequent simultaneous risks across regions. The findings highlight challenges for firefighting resources and underscore the need for homeowner preparedness.

February 27, 2026 Reported by AI

Fire services in the Cape Winelands District Municipality are working to contain a wildfire between Montagu and Barrydale in the Boland. Hot and windy conditions have led to several flare-ups in areas previously under control. Officials state that no infrastructure is currently threatened.

One year after devastating wildfires destroyed 13,000 homes in Los Angeles County, only seven have been rebuilt. The 2025 blazes, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, killed at least 31 people and caused up to $275 billion in economic damage. Despite efforts to speed up permitting, challenges like toxic cleanup, labor shortages, and regulatory hurdles continue to slow recovery.

January 13, 2026 Reported by AI

In an escalation of the Chubut wildfires that began January 5—previously linked to arson and prompting Chilean aid—Epuyén's council declared a comprehensive fire, social, environmental, economic, and health catastrophe after flames ravaged over 12,000 hectares. Reignited by winds, the fires have destroyed 24 homes and key sites, prompting high-level visits, donations, and aid requests amid paralyzed local activities.