Janice R. Andrews
Climate change has significantly heightened the risk of destructive wildfires in Los Angeles, experts warn. The Easton and Palisades fires, which have led to tragic losses, were intensified by extreme weather conditions linked to rising global temperatures, according to a recent analysis by the World Weather Attribution (WWA).
Researchers found that with Earth’s temperature now 1.3°C above pre-industrial levels, extreme Fire Weather Index (FWI) conditions in LA are 35% more likely. If global temperatures climb by 2.6°C—an increase projected by 2100 under current policies—these conditions will become an additional 35% more frequent.
A review of 11 climate models revealed that eight showed a rise in extreme January fire weather, further solidifying the link between climate change and worsening wildfire risks. However, scientists stress that other factors also played a role. LA has not experienced significant rainfall since May 2024, a drought condition that is now 2.4 times more likely due to climate change. Additionally, strong Santa Ana winds rapidly spread the flames, making containment efforts even more challenging.
The WWA specializes in rapid studies of extreme weather events to determine climate change’s influence while recovery efforts are underway. Their latest findings emphasize the urgent need for stronger climate action to mitigate the growing wildfire threat.
