California wildfires Flashcards
(16 cards)
Where did the 2025 California wildfire event occur and what made it severe?
It occurred across California, especially impacting areas like LA County; dry vegetation, Santa Ana winds, and extreme weather made it severe.
What type of hazard was the 2025 California event and why is it increasing?
A large-scale wildfire; increasing due to climate change, dry weather, and human activity.
What natural factors contributed to the 2025 California wildfires?
Prolonged drought, dry vegetation from previous wet years, and strong Santa Ana winds up to 50 mph.
How has climate change influenced wildfire risk in California?
It has led to hotter, drier conditions and ‘weather whiplash,’ turning California’s fire season into a fire year.
What human activities may have caused or worsened the 2025 wildfires?
Possible causes include sparks from machinery, faulty utility lines, or accidental negligence.
How many people were displaced or at risk during the fires?
Over 105,000 evacuated and 87,000 under evacuation warnings.
What was the death toll from the 2025 wildfires as of January 13?
At least 24 confirmed deaths and 16 people missing.
How did the wildfires affect property and infrastructure?
Over 12,000 structures destroyed, including 7,000 in the Eaton Fire and 5,300 in the Palisades Fire.
What public health issues arose from the wildfire smoke?
Air quality declined severely, leading to a health emergency in LA County with residents advised to stay indoors.
What is the estimated economic cost of the 2025 California wildfires?
Up to $150 billion, with insured losses expected to exceed $8 billion.
How did the fires affect electricity and utilities?
Power shut-offs impacted 26,000 customers, and about 35,000 homes remained without power.
How have firefighting efforts been carried out during the 2025 wildfires?
Thousands of firefighters, 400 National Guard troops, aerial water drops, fire retardants, and road closures.
What evacuation and safety measures were put in place?
Mass evacuations, emergency shelters, curfews to prevent looting, and 29 arrests reported.
What steps has the government taken in response to the fires?
State of emergency declared by Governor Newsom; concerns raised over water supply and crew readiness.
How have communities contributed to wildfire response?
Volunteers and community organizations have provided aid and support to displaced residents.
How is climate change connected to the increasing wildfire risk in California?
It causes hotter temperatures, drier conditions, and unpredictable weather, turning fire seasons into year-round risks.
